Variegated fatsia japonica

This is a variegated version of the popular fatsia japonica and requires exactly the same care. While a lot of variegated plants need more sun than their fully-green relatives, because only the green parts of a leaf absorb sun, the variegated fatsia japonica is tough enough to survive happily in shade. It’s a little slower growing, though.

The species gets its name from the Japanese word ‘fatsi’, meaning ‘eight’, because its magnificent leaves have eight lobes. It’s found in the wild in Japan, South Korea and Taiwan, where it lives happily through warm summers and pretty cold winters (it can cope with temperatures as low as −15 °C).

It’s become hugely popular around the world for its impressive glossy leaves. In summer, you should also see it bloom with small white flowers, then possibly little (inedible) black fruits. 

Another reason for its popularity is its easy-going nature. It’s happy almost anywhere and is a great choice for outdoor space that gets limited sun. It likes a mix of sun and shade best, but it will cope with whatever you can give it. It’s not too fond of strong wind, so try to put it somewhere sheltered.

Did you know?

In Japan, the plant is commonly known as ‘yatsude’ meaning ‘eight fingers’.