Plant Passport
Japanese Aralia
Fatsia japonica
LightBright
Water7-10d
PetCheck
PP FATS IAJA PONI
Issued 2026 · Valid while cared for
Japanese Aralia
Vingerplant
Fatsia japonica
Also known as Aralia japonica
“I bring shady garden energy into the house and tolerate cooler rooms.”
low lightshade tolerantlarge plantbalcony friendlystatement plant
- Light
- Low light
- Water
- Let dry between waterings
- Pet safety
- Mildly toxic
- This month
- Finish the strongest growth flush with one more light feed. Review support or pruning needs for the bushy shape before tired leaves hide pests Cue: Large glossy hand-shaped leaves on sturdy stems.
August care tip
Finish the strongest growth flush with one more light feed. Review support or pruning needs for the bushy shape before tired leaves hide pests Cue: Large glossy hand-shaped leaves on sturdy stems.
Quick Care Summary
- Light
- Low light
- Water
- Let dry between waterings
- Placement
- Place in cool bright hallway, conservatory or shaded balcony in mild weather; protect from sudden changes and harsh sun.
- Temperature
- 5–28°C
- Humidity
- moderate
Free printable Plant Passport card
Print, cut, and place this Japanese Aralia card in the pot. Add the physical card if you want the finished version.
Printable card preview
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Plant Passport
Japanese Aralia
LightBright
Water7-10d
Botanical stake card
- Format
- 150 x 25mm
- Best for
- Slim plant stakes and gift pots
Use the card section above when you are ready to download or add a printed card.
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Waterproof badge holders keep the free printable card readable through every watering.
View holders →Detailed Care Guide
Watering Method
Water thoroughly, drain well and let the top half of the mix dry before watering again.
Soil Mix
Loose potting soil with perlite or bark; avoid dense waterlogged compost.
Repotting
Repot in spring every 2-3 years or when roots fill the pot.
Pruning
Prune lightly in spring to shape and remove dead or weak stems.
Pot Preference
Use a stable pot with drainage holes; heavy plants need a broad base.
Fertilizing
Feed lightly once a month from April to September; skip winter feeding.
Draft Sensitivity
Keep above 5 C and away from cold draughts.
Sources consulted
- powo.science.kew.org
- www.rhs.org.uk
- www.aspca.org
Room Placement
Window Direction
North, east or set back from brighter windows.
Best Room
cool bright hallway, conservatory or shaded balcony in mild weather
Monthly Care Calendar
Aug (now)
Finish the strongest growth flush with one more light feed. Review support or pruning needs for the bushy shape before tired leaves hide pests Cue: Large glossy hand-shaped leaves on sturdy stems.
Sep
Start reducing fertilizer and stretch watering as nights cool. Move Japanese Aralia closer to a steady low-light spot before autumn light drops Cue: Large glossy hand-shaped leaves on sturdy stems.
Oct
Stop feeding and prepare for heating season. Keep temperature steady and avoid cold drafts Cue: Large glossy hand-shaped leaves on sturdy stems.
Nov
Winter risk check: test soil before watering, inspect large glossy hand-shaped leaves on sturdy stems, and keep the pot draining freely while growth slows Cue: Large glossy hand-shaped leaves on sturdy stems.
Watering Schedule
- Summer
- Every 8 days
- Winter
- Every 16 days
Check below the surface and let the top half of the mix dry before watering again.
Common Problems
Propagation
stem cuttings in soilmoderatespring
Take warm-season cuttings only from healthy stems; woody species root slowly and need steady warmth.
Pests & Diseases
Scale insects
Early signs
Brown bumps on stems, sticky honeydew and dull leaves.
Treatment
Wipe with alcohol and repeat weekly until no new bumps appear.
Spider mites
Early signs
Fine webbing and speckled leaves in dry rooms.
Treatment
Rinse foliage and improve humidity while treating weekly.
Buying Tips
Choose Japanese Aralia with firm stems, no sticky residue and no sour pot smell.
Frequently Asked Questions
Fun Facts
Japanese Aralia is often sold for its tree-like shape, so stable placement matters as much as watering.
Origin & Natural Habitat
Warm forest or woodland habitat with filtered light and periods where the root zone can breathe.
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