Japanese aralia, also known as paper plant or Formosa rice tree, is a versatile broadleaf evergreen shrub that can thrive in temperate gardens, as well as in containers or as a houseplant. Its tropical-looking foliage and charming blooms make it a delightful addition to any setting all year round.
Common Names: Paper plant, Formosa rice tree, Japanese fatsia
Botanical Name: Fatsia japonica
Family: Araliaceae
Plant Type: Woody Tree or Shrub
Mature Size: 6-19 feet tall, 4-6 feet wide
Sun Exposure: Deep to partial shade
Soil Type: Loamy, well-drained
Soil pH: Neutral
Bloom Time: Fall
Flower Color: White, cream
Hardiness Zones: 7b-10b USDA
Native Area: South Korea, Japan to Nansei-shoto
Japanese Aralia Care:
Japanese aralia has a rounded, spreading form and can grow up to 19 feet tall as an evergreen garden shrub or small tree. Its dark green, palmate leaves provide long-lasting foliage for floral arrangements. White or cream drumstick-like flowers emerge on new growth stems in late fall, followed by black fruit in winter.
This plant thrives in deep to partial shade and prefers loamy, well-drained soil with a neutral pH. It can be grown in containers on shady patios or as a houseplant, especially in colder zones. Japanese aralia is deer-resistant but may need protection against these animals. When grown indoors, it rarely blooms or produces fruit.
Light:
Preferring partial to full shade, Japanese aralia is an excellent choice for shady gardens. Avoid direct sunlight for extended periods to prevent leaf scorching.
Soil:
Adaptable to various soil types, Japanese aralia grows best in nutrient-rich soil with organic matter. Container plants do well with commercial potting soil.
Water:
Maintain even soil moisture, especially during the growing season. Mulching helps retain soil moisture. Reduce watering in fall and winter.
Temperature and Humidity:
Japanese aralia thrives in temperate to warm temperatures with moderate to high humidity. Protect from drying winds.
Fertilizer:
Regularly fertilize with a balanced NPK fertilizer, except during winter dormancy.
Planting:
Plant outdoors in a shaded area with morning sun exposure. Ideal as accent plants, shrubs in mixed borders, or screens. Plant in early spring or late fall and water well until established.
Pruning:
Prune to maintain shape, preferably in late winter to encourage new growth and blossoms.
Propagation:
Propagate Japanese aralia through stem cuttings in the spring.
To propagate a Fatsia japonica plant from a cutting, look for new, green growth. Prepare a small plant pot with good drainage, potting mix, rooting hormone, and clean garden pruners. Select a tender stem without blooms and cut it 4 to 6 inches from the tip below a leaf node. Remove leaves from the lower half of the stem. Fill the pot with potting mix, water well, and make a hole with your finger. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder and place it in the hole, patting the soil gently. Put the pot in a warm spot with indirect light, keeping the soil moist but not soggy. After a few weeks, gently tug on the cutting to check for resistance, indicating root growth. Once rooted, consider repotting and regular care.
To propagate from fruit seeds, gather seeds from the winter fruit, soak and extract them, then sow in a well-draining mix in a seed tray. Keep warm, moist, and in indirect light. Thin as needed after germination and transplant when mature.
Watch for pests like aphids and diseases like root rot. Various varieties offer unique foliage patterns. Repot every couple of years to avoid rootbound plants. Japanese aralia is safe for pets and prefers temperate climates or indoor environments. Common issues include yellowing leaves due to improper care.
