Fatsia japonica produces large, dark green, deeply lobed leaves. From fall through winter umbels of small whitish flowers grow are seen which are then followed by clusters of small round black fruit. Often grown as a foliage houseplant for cool positions, this is also a very successful shade-tolerant garden plant. It is best grown in the open in seaside gardens, or against warm walls and in sheltered corners inland - hard frost can injure the leaves, but plants recover if the roots are safe from freezing. The handsome bushes tend to be wider than they are tall, with very large leaves which create a sub-tropical effect. Plant in spring to allow time to establish before the frosts. Remove berries to increase leaf size, and water and feed regularly.
Bright light - avoid direct sunshine. Water freely from spring to autumn - sparingly in Winter. Use tepid water. Mist leaves frequently, especially in hot weather.
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