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Unconditional Satisfaction GuaranteeNo Shipping Fees Above 302 Months to Decide. Returns Simplified.Fatsia japonica, commonly known as the Japanese Aralia or Castor Oil Plant, is a bold, architectural evergreen shrub from the Araliaceae family, native to Japan, Korea, and Taiwan. This plant is a long-time favourite for both indoor and outdoor growing due to its dramatic, glossy foliage and tropical appearance combined with remarkable hardiness.
The large, deeply lobed leaves can reach up to 30 cm across, creating a lush, exotic canopy of deep green, leathery foliage with a high-gloss finish. In autumn, mature plants may produce clusters of creamy-white, spherical flowers, followed by small black berries adding extra interest to the plants striking form.
Perfect for bright indoor spaces, shady gardens, or sheltered patios, Fatsia japonica delivers instant impact and year-round greenery with very little maintenance. Its tropical aesthetic and resilience make it a top choice for both experienced gardeners and beginners.
Thrives in bright, indirect light but tolerates shade well. Outdoors, it prefers dappled or partial shade. Avoid prolonged direct sunlight indoors, which can scorch the leaves, or deep shade, which may reduce growth.
Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Water when the top few centimetres feel dry. Ensure the pot or planting site drains freely, as Fatsia dislikes waterlogged soil. In winter, reduce watering frequency.
Temperature: Prefers 1525C indoors. Outdoors, it is hardy down to around -5C, tolerating light frosts.
Humidity: Prefers moderate humidity indoors. Mist occasionally or group with other plants to prevent leaf edges from drying out.
Use a rich, well-draining, peat-free compost with added perlite or grit for aeration. Outdoors, it prefers fertile, moist, but free-draining soil. Repot indoor plants every 23 years in spring.
Feed every 46 weeks during spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertiliser to promote strong growth and glossy foliage. No feeding is needed in winter.
Remove any yellowing or damaged leaves at the base to maintain a tidy shape. Prune back tall or leggy stems after flowering to encourage bushier growth. Wipe leaves occasionally with a damp cloth to maintain their shine.
A fast-growing shrub that can reach 12 metres indoors or up to 3 metres outdoors in ideal conditions. It naturally develops a broad, bushy habit that fills space beautifully.
Yellow leaves: Overwatering or poor drainage.
Brown leaf tips: Low humidity or too much direct sunlight.
Leggy growth: Insufficient light.
Pests: Occasionally aphids, spider mites, or scale insects wipe leaves regularly to deter them.
First introduced to Europe in the 19th century, Fatsia japonica quickly became a staple of British gardens and conservatories for its exotic, palm-like appearance and adaptability to cool, shady conditions. Despite its tropical look, it is remarkably hardy and thrives outdoors in sheltered, frost-free locations.
Its also an excellent air-purifying plant, helping remove common indoor pollutants and improve air quality. Its bold foliage and sculptural form make it perfect for adding structure and drama to both indoor jungles and outdoor tropical-style gardens.
Quick Care Summary
Light: Bright, indirect to partial shade
Water: Keep evenly moist; avoid waterlogging
Temperature: 1525C indoors; hardy outdoors to -5C
Humidity: Moderate; mist occasionally
Soil: Rich, well-draining compost
Feed: Every 46 weeks in spring/summer
Growth: Broad-leaved shrub, 13 m; large glossy lobed leaves and white spherical flowers in autumn
Styling Tip:
Display Fatsia japonica in a large decorative pot for a statement indoor feature, or use it outdoors as a focal shrub in shaded garden borders or patio planters. It pairs beautifully with ferns, hostas, or other shade-loving tropicals for a lush, layered look.
Toxicity Note: Fatsia japonica is mildly toxic if ingested and may cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals. Keep out of reach of pets and children.
