FATSIA japonica

Description: Common name: Japanese aralia, Castor oil plant. An excellent evergreen foliage plant with bold rich green leaves which are palmate in shape. This architectural plant is very effective in a garden design as a backdrop for other plants. It is often used in tropical gardens and requires a sheltered and protected site to avoid winter damage. Mature plants will produce interesting globular green white flower heads followed by black fruits which remain throughout winter

Uses: This plant is tolerant of air pollution and salt spray. Often used in sheltered courtyards to create a dramatic focal point

Climate/Position: Can tolerate some sun but does best in dappled to deep shade

Height/Spread: Height up to 2.5 metres, Spread up to 2 metres

Soil Requirements: Prefers a moist, well-drained soil

Pruning: No pruning needed but it can tolerate hard pruning every few years if required

Special Requirements: Plant in a protected site and shelter from cold drying winds

Additional Interest: Awarded AGM in 1993 for outstanding excellence Hardiness category 4 - Hardy throughout the British isles