What: Fatsia japonica is the most distinctive of all evergreens, with large palmate leaves. The lobed leaves can reach 16 inches across and provide contrast in the shade garden. It can be grown in mass plantings on larger sites or as a specimen in smaller gardens. Grow it with ferns for contrast and it is excellent when mixed with large plantings of rhododendrons to relieve the monotony of dark, medium evergreen foliage. Drumstick-like flowers are otherworldly in appearance but add to the distinctiveness of this shrub. Plant with the usual woodland perennials like hellebores, hostas, solomn’s seal and the like. Foliage is excellent in flower arrangements and lasts for weeks when cut.
Where: This tropical looking evergreen shrub prefers rich well-drained soil, but will tolerate sandy sites and clay if drainage is adequate. Plant in open to deep shade.
Size: Reaches 6 feet high by 6 feet wide in 10 years.
Care: Regular summer watering encourages full lush growth and large, bold leaves, but it will tolerate only occasional watering during dry weather. Fatsia japonica requires little pruning other than to remove any dead, broken or poorly formed limbs.
— greatplantpicks.org
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