Variegated Japanese aralia
Fatsia Japonica ‘Spiders Web’ is variegated form and with very attractive foliage it can be grown indoors however it is equally at home growing in the garden.
Also known as the ‘Speckled Aralia’, this a plant that will get to 3m (9ft) in height however it can be pruned back to around 1.3 to 2m. Mid green leaves with a spiders web like white variegation give this plant a light look in shaded positions. The new foliage opens a paler green ageing to a deeper green as they age. Large leaves to 45cm across, palmate, deeply lobed in structure and evergreen.
Fatsia Japonica ‘Spiders Web will flower with panicles of small white flowers followed by small black fruit.
Problems
- Brown leaves are usually a sign of sun burn
- Very dry soil can cause root problems
- Very deep shade is also not suitable.
- Remove any dead foliage as it appears
- Lack of moisture can cause burnt leaf tips and yellowing leaves
- Overwatering can cause leaves to droop
Pruning and General Care
Over time the plant will form long stems and it is simple to prune these back to maintain a bushier growth habit.
Pruning should be carried out in spring, look down the stem to where you see small buds and prune back to these,
Mulch around the plant with a thick layer of wood chip mulch and fertilise one a year with a general purpose organic fertiliser.