Paperplant
Fatsia japonica · Fatsia · Japanese AraliaUSDA | Grow Zone
8-10Outdoors all year in zones 8 to 10. Anywhere colder, keep it as a houseplant. Protect it below 20°F.
- Light
- Partial to full shade
- Water
- When top inch is dry
- Humidity
- 40-60%
- Temperature
- 60-75°F
- Difficulty
- Beginner
- Growth
- Moderate
- Mature size
- 6-10 ft tall
- Pets
- Non-toxic to pets
Fatsia japonica, commonly known as Paperplant or Japanese Aralia, is a stunning evergreen shrub native to East Asia. Its large, glossy leaves make it a popular choice for indoor and outdoor gardens, providing a tropical feel and excellent foliage contrast.
Ask Vesper about Paperplant
Ideal temperature
60-75°F is where it grows fastest. Below 20°F cold damage starts.
Spacing and harvest
- Mature size
- 6-10 ft tall
- Plant apart
- 48-96 in
- Frost
- Half hardy: light frost only
Everything it needs
9 essentials at a glance
Watering
Fatsia japonica prefers consistently moist soil but should not be waterlogged.
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 1-2 weeks. During the growing season (spring and summer), increase watering frequency, while in fall and winter, reduce it. Signs of over-watering include yellowing leaves and root rot, while under-watering may cause leaf droop and browning tips.
Light
This plant thrives in partial shade to full shade, ideally receiving 4-6 hours of indirect sunlight daily.
Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, so it is best placed in a location that avoids harsh afternoon sun. Fatsia can tolerate low light conditions but may grow more slowly.
Soil
Fatsia japonica prefers well-draining, rich soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.0.
A mix of potting soil, peat moss, and perlite or sand is recommended to ensure good drainage. Avoid heavy clay soils that retain too much moisture.
Humidity
This plant enjoys high humidity levels, ideally between 40% to 60%.
To increase humidity, consider misting the leaves regularly, placing a humidifier nearby, or using a pebble tray with water. Signs of low humidity include browning leaf tips and edges.
Temperature
Fatsia japonica thrives in temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C) and is hardy in USDA zones 8-10.
It can tolerate brief periods of cold down to 20°F (-6°C) but should be protected from frost. In summer, ensure it is not exposed to extreme heat.
Fertilizing
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 or similar every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
In fall and winter, reduce fertilization to once every 8-12 weeks. Signs of nutrient deficiency include yellowing leaves, stunted growth, and poor leaf development.
Pruning
Prune Fatsia japonica in late winter or early spring to maintain its shape and remove any dead or damaged leaves.
Use sharp, clean pruning shears to cut back overgrown stems. Deadheading is not necessary, but removing spent leaves can encourage new growth.
Repotting
Repot Fatsia japonica every 2-3 years or when it becomes root-bound, indicated by roots growing out of the drainage holes.
Choose a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter. Carefully remove the plant from its pot, loosen the roots, and place it in fresh potting mix. Water thoroughly after repotting.
Propagation
Propagation can be done through stem cuttings or division.
For stem cuttings, take 4-6 inch cuttings from healthy stems, remove lower leaves, and place them in water or a moist potting mix. Keep them in a warm, humid environment until roots develop, usually within 4-6 weeks. Division is best done in spring when repotting.
When it's unhappy
Yellow leaves
Why it happens
Over-watering or poor drainage.
How to fix it
Ensure the pot has drainage holes and adjust watering frequency.
Browning leaf tips
Why it happens
Low humidity or under-watering.
How to fix it
Increase humidity levels and check soil moisture regularly.
Leaf drop
Why it happens
Sudden temperature changes or stress.
How to fix it
Keep the plant in a stable environment away from drafts and heat sources.
Pests (e.g., spider mites, aphids)
Why it happens
Dry conditions or stress.
How to fix it
Inspect regularly, and treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Stunted growth
Why it happens
Nutrient deficiency or poor lighting.
How to fix it
Fertilize appropriately and ensure adequate light conditions.
Care through the year
Spring
In spring, repot if necessary and begin a regular fertilization schedule. Ensure adequate watering as the plant starts to grow.
Summer
During summer, maintain consistent moisture and monitor for pests. Increase humidity if temperatures rise.
Fall
In fall, reduce watering frequency as growth slows and prepare the plant for winter by ensuring it is in a stable environment.
Winter
In winter, keep the plant in a warm location away from drafts. Water less frequently and avoid fertilizing until spring.
Toxicity & Safety
Fatsia japonica is considered non-toxic to pets and children. However, ingestion of large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal upset. It is always best to keep plants out of reach of curious pets and children.
Good to know
Why are my Fatsia japonica leaves turning yellow?
Yellow leaves can indicate over-watering or poor drainage. Check the soil moisture and ensure the pot has proper drainage.
How often should I water my Fatsia japonica?
Water your Fatsia when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 1-2 weeks, adjusting for seasonal changes.
What light conditions are best for Fatsia japonica?
Fatsia prefers partial shade to full shade, thriving with 4-6 hours of indirect sunlight daily to avoid leaf scorch.
How can I increase humidity for my Fatsia japonica?
Increase humidity by misting the leaves, using a humidifier, or placing a pebble tray filled with water nearby.
When is the best time to prune Fatsia japonica?
Prune in late winter or early spring to remove dead leaves and shape the plant for optimal growth.
How do I propagate Fatsia japonica?
You can propagate through stem cuttings or division, taking cuttings in spring and ensuring they are kept warm and humid.
What should I do if my Fatsia japonica is infested with pests?
Inspect the plant regularly and treat any infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil to keep it healthy.
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