False Castor Oil Plant

False Castor Oil Plant Overview

Fatsia japonica is an evergreen shrub with large, distinctive, leathery, dark green leaves which are glossy and deeply lobed. It produces spherical white-cream flowers in dense clusters during the latter months of the year, followed by small black fruits. It has an open, spreading habit and is commonly grown as a garden ornamental, particularly suitable for shaded areas. It was favoured in the UK by the Victorians and Edwardians due to its fine architectural qualities! Commonly known by the names False Castor Oil Plant, Japanese Aralia and Japanese Fatsia, amongst others, it is at home in informal flower beds and urban courtyard gardens alike, and can be grown to good effect in large containers (but don't let it dry out - or become waterlogged). Very versatile, it is also useful for growing in groups on slopes or banks and adds an exotic feel to a garden, while being hardy! (It can also be grown as a houseplant where it is good for cleaning up household formaldehyde pollution.) Unusually, Fatsia japonica is happy in a sunny or shady position - it even shines out in deep shade - and it likes moist, well-drained soil. A useful and lovely shrub, Fatsia japonica has earned a coveted 'RHS Award of Garden Merit' and is on the RHS 'Plants for Pollinators' list, highlighting plants that produce large amounts of nectar and/or pollen. A great choice for encouraging beneficial insect wildlife into your garden!