Fatsia japonica (Big-leaf paper plant, Figleaf Palm, Formosa rice tree, Glossy-Leaved Paper Plant, Japanese Aralia, Japanese Fatsia, Paper Plant) | North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox

Glossy-Leaved Paper Plant is a semi-dense broadleaf evergreen shrub or small tree that has the appearance of tropical foliage. It is rounded and spreading in form and, at maturity, reaches a height of 19 feet. Place in a protected site as the leaves will brown if exposed to full sun or wind. Grown in a pot it can be on a shady patio in the summer. This plant can also be grown as a houseplant which is a positive attribute considering that deer frequently damage it. 

The plant grows best in acidic, moist, well-drained organically rich soils but tolerates sandy and clay soils. It prefers part to full shade and is tolerant of pollution and salt spray. It tolerates drought once established.  Prune it any time of year to maintain shape, keeping in mind that next year's blossoms will appear on new growth. Fertilize regularly except in the winter when it is not growing.

It blooms in autumn and fruit ripens in mid to late winter. The plant is often used as house plant as well as an outdoor landscape plant. The leaves will brown if it is sited in full sun or with wind exposure. Variegated cultivars are available.

Quick ID Hints:

• Evergreen shrub with palmately-lobed leaves
• 7-11 serrate lobes; sinuses are entire

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  No serious pests or diseases. Aphids, mealybugs, spider mites, scale, and thrips are occasional problems.  Too much moisture in the soil can cause root rot.