Fatsia japonica - Japanese Fatsia False Aralia 

The plant: The Fatsia has large, hand-shaped leaves with a slightly toothed margin. An elegant evergreen foliage plant. In autumn a profusion of creamy flowers are followed by inky black shiny berries.

Its needs: The Japanese Fatsia requires strong light even some direct sun. The potting mix should be rich and fertile, well-draining but kept moist. Warmth and normal humidity preferred.

Care: Keep the potting mix moist all year round, but do not allow the Fatsia to become waterlogged. In hot dry summers use a mist-spray on the foliage. Prune Fatsia to shape in spring, and pinch out leggy growth through the year. If left unpruned the Japanese Fatsia will become a very large shrub. Can tolerate low temperatures but prefers normal range. Problems - Watch for scale pest and mealy bugs.

Good for: An easy, attractive evergreen plant. A superb evergreen foliage shrub in the mixed border - especially in part shade.

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