Japanese Aralia Fatsia japonica

Names

• Family

  Araliaceae.

• Synonyms

  Japanese Aralia, Glossy-leaf Paper Plant, Fatsia, Paperplant, Fig-leaf Palm, Fatshedera.

• Common names

  Aralia japonica, Aralia sieboldii, Fatsia sieboldii

Toxicity

• To humans

  The Japanese aralia is considered to be only mildly toxic to humans. If ingested, it may cause irritation of the mouth, lips, throat, and skin due to the presence of saponins, which are chemical compounds known to produce a soapy lather when mixed with water. Symptoms of poisoning can include vomiting, diarrhea, and a burning sensation in the mouth. It is important to seek medical attention if any part of the plant is consumed, particularly by children who might be more sensitive to its toxic effects.

• To pets

  For pets, the Japanese aralia is also mildly toxic. If ingested by pets such as dogs or cats, it can cause similar symptoms as in humans, such as vomiting, diarrhea, and oral irritation. Ingesting the plant can result in drooling, pawing at the mouth, reduced appetite, and a general sense of malaise. It's crucial to consult a veterinarian if you suspect your pet has eaten any part of this plant to receive appropriate care.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Perennials

• Foliage type

  Evergreen

• Color of leaves

  Green

• Flower color

  White

• Height

  6-10 feet (1.8-3 meters)

• Spread

  5-8 feet (1.5-2.4 meters)

• Plant type

  Shrub

• Hardiness zones

  8

• Native area

  Japan

General Benefits

• Ornamental Value: Fatsia japonica, commonly known as Japanese aralia, has large, glossy, and deeply lobed leaves that make it an attractive ornamental plant for gardens and indoor spaces.
• Shade Tolerance: Japanese aralia can thrive in shaded areas where other plants might struggle, making it versatile for different garden settings.
• Low Maintenance: It requires relatively little care, which is ideal for gardeners looking for plants that do not need frequent attention.
• Privacy Screen: Because of its dense foliage, Japanese aralia can be used as a natural privacy screen or to hide unsightly areas in a landscape.
• Container Gardening: This plant is well-suited for container gardening, which makes it an excellent choice for balconies, patios, or indoor use.
• Wildlife Attraction: Its flowers can attract beneficial insects such as bees, and its berries provide food for birds during the fall and winter.
• Architectural Structure: The unique shape and texture of the plant's leaves add architectural interest to garden designs.
• Variety of Climates: Japanese aralia can adapt to a variety of climates, although it prefers temperate regions, it can be grown in many different areas with suitable care.

Medical Properties

This plant is not used for medical purposes.

Air-purifying Qualities

This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.

Other Uses

• Ornamental screen or hedge: Fatsia japonica, commonly known as Japanese Aralia, can be used to create dense screens or hedges for privacy due to its large, lush foliage.
• Urban gardening: Japanese Aralia is suitable for urban environments as it tolerates pollution and can thrive in shaded areas where other plants may struggle.
• Frost-resistant planting: In temperate climates, Japanese Aralia serves as an excellent frost-resistant plant, making it ideal for outdoor spaces that experience mild winters.
• Bonsai: Due to Japanese Aralia's ability to adapt to pot culture, it can be trained as a bonsai, providing a unique and artistic plant form for enthusiasts.
• Theme gardens: Japanese Aralia is often included in Japanese or Asian-themed gardens to add authenticity and complement traditional design elements.
• Container planting: Its tolerance for shade and ability to grow in containers makes Japanese Aralia a suitable plant for patios, balconies, or indoor spaces with indirect light.
• Foliage for flower arrangements: The distinct, large leaves of Japanese Aralia can be used in floral arrangements to add a tropical and lush feel to bouquets.
• Coastal areas planting: Japanese Aralia's tolerance for wind makes it a good planting choice in coastal areas that require sturdy and resilient vegetation.
• Dramatic underplanting: When planted underneath taller trees or shrubs, Japanese Aralia adds a dramatic visual layer of contrast with its bold foliage, enhancing overall garden texture.
• Film and theatre prop: Due to its striking appearance, Japanese Aralia can be used as a prop in film and theatre productions set in dense, jungle-like environments.

Feng Shui

The Paper plant is not used in Feng Shui practice.

Zodiac Sign Compitability

The Paper plant is not used in astrology practice.

Plant Symbolism

• Resilience: Fatsia japonica, commonly known as Japanese aralia, is a hardy plant that can thrive in a variety of conditions, symbolizing an individual's ability to persevere through adversity.
• Growth: The plant's vigorous growth habit signifies personal growth and the capacity to expand one’s horizons.
• Diversity: With its broad and deeply lobed leaves, the Japanese aralia represents diversity and the embracing of differences within unity.
• Protection: Due to its thick foliage, it is often viewed as a symbol of protection and sanctuary, offering a shield from the outside world.
• Secrets: Some cultures regard the dense leaves as a hiding place, thus the plant can sometimes symbolize the holding of secrets or mysteries.