False Aralia - Fatsia japonica

Fatsia japonica is evergreen and boasts impressively large, dark green and shiny leaves. They are 15 to 30 cm wide (5.9 in to 11.8 in), sometimes more, and are held on a petiole (leaf stalk) that is just as long. Tiny flowers appear in autumn, which are grouped in bunches of small white pompons. Later, they transform into equally decorative black pearls.

It is also called false aralia or Japanese aralia due to its botanical proximity to Aralias, which are similar ornamental plants. Shrub-like or perennial Aralias also have quite remarkable foliage.

Originally from southern Japan and Taiwan, Fatsia japonica likes to be planted in partial shade, in very moist, light, and acidic soil. Hardy down to -12° C (10.4° F), the foliage can be damaged by snow and winter winds; planting it in very sheltered areas, protected from cold and dry winds, will greatly improve its hardiness. Plant it in the south or west, against a wall or in a shaded bed, in the company of plants with luxuriant leaves: rodgersias, bamboos, hostas, Chinese palm or Gunnera.