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 plant’s 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.

Fatsia japonica – Care Guide

Light

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.

Watering

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 and Humidity

• Temperature: Prefers 15–25°C indoors. Outdoors, it is hardy down to around -5°C, tolerating light frosts.

• Humidity: Prefers moderate humidity indoors. Mist occasionally or group with other plants to prevent leaf edges from drying out.

Soil and Potting

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 2–3 years in spring.

Feeding

Feed every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertiliser to promote strong growth and glossy foliage. No feeding is needed in winter.

Pruning and Maintenance

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.

Growth and Maturity

A fast-growing shrub that can reach 1–2 metres indoors or up to 3 metres outdoors in ideal conditions. It naturally develops a broad, bushy habit that fills space beautifully.

Common Issues

• 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.

Background and Benefits

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.

It’s 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: 15–25°C indoors; hardy outdoors to -5°C

• Humidity: Moderate; mist occasionally

• Soil: Rich, well-draining compost

• Feed: Every 4–6 weeks in spring/summer

• Growth: Broad-leaved shrub, 1–3 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.