Also known as Japanese Aralia · 43 saves
Fatsia
Fatsia, the genus most gardeners know as japanese aralia. We track 4 varieties; the ones most used by real gardeners.
The 4 most-saved Fatsia varieties
Track your Fatsia in Sow
Save the Fatsia you grow and get care reminders timed to your zone.
How to grow Fatsia
Whats common across all Fatsia varieties in our catalog — drawn from the care records of the 4 most-grown of them.
The Fatsia year
- PruneFebruary and March100% of varieties
Prune lightly in late winter/early spring to shape or remove damaged/crossing limbs.
- FertilizeMarch and April100% of varieties
Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer around the root zone in early spring.
- Check for PestsApril–August100% of varieties
Watch for scale insects and spider mites, especially in dry conditions.
Do
- Mulch annually to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not soggy 🌱
- Prune to shape and remove dead or damaged branches
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged 🌱
- Prune to maintain shape and remove dead or damaged leaves ✂️
Avoid
- Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot ❌
- Refrain from heavy fertilizing late in the season
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don't expose to frost without protection
What goes wrong with Fatsia
| Problem | What you'll see | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Scale insects | Sticky residue and yellowing leaves | Use insecticidal soap or neem oil |
| Spider mites | Fine webbing and speckled leaves | Use insecticidal soap or miticides |
| Root rot | Wilting and blackened roots | Improve drainage and reduce watering |
| Leaf spot | Brown or black spots on foliage | Remove affected leaves and apply fungicide |
Making more Fatsia
cuttings
- Select healthy semi-mature stems in late summer
- Dip cut end in rooting hormone
- Plant in well-draining soil and water lightly
- Keep in indirect sunlight and maintain moisture
- Roots typically develop in 6 weeks
division
- Dig up mature plants in early spring or fall
- Gently separate clumps with a sharp knife or spade
- Replant divisions at same depth and water thoroughly
- Mulch to retain moisture
Fatsia questions
How many types of Fatsia are there?
The Sow catalog tracks 4 distinct Fatsia varieties. The most popular — ranked by 43 real gardeners — are shown first above.
What zones does Fatsia grow in?
Across its varieties, Fatsia covers USDA Zones 7–10. Individual varieties differ — each plant page lists its exact range, and Sow filters the catalog to your zone automatically.
When does Fatsia bloom?
Most Fatsia varieties bloom in early fall, late fall. Staggering early, mid, and late varieties extends the genus's season in one bed.
Which Fatsia should I choose?
Start from the most-saved varieties above — popularity across thousands of gardens is a strong signal of reliability — then filter by your zone and sun. In the Sow app you can preview any of them in a photo of your actual yard before you buy.