Fatsia japonica - paperplant

Fatsia japonica, also known as Japanese aralia or paper plant, is an evergreen shrub prized for its large, tropical-looking leaves. Despite its exotic appearance, it is a hardy, low-maintenance plant that is tolerant of shade and a range of growing conditions. It is a popular choice for adding an architectural element to gardens and is also grown as a houseplant.

Characteristics

• Foliage: The main feature of the plant is its large, glossy, dark-green leaves, which are deeply lobed and shaped like a hand. They can grow up to 45 cm wide.
• Size: As a mature shrub, it can reach a height and spread of up to 2.5 to 4 meters. Slower-growing, variegated forms, such as 'Spider's Web', are also available.
• Flowers and berries: In the autumn, it produces clusters of small, creamy-white flowers on rounded spikes. These are followed by small, shiny black fruits in the winter, which are ornamental but not for consumption.
• Hardiness: It is a hardy plant, tolerant of coastal conditions and urban pollution. However, strong, cold winds and severe frost can damage the large leaves.

Please note the white marks on the leaves in the picture are from overhead watering and feeding, these will disappear.