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Paperplant
Also known as: Japanese aralia, False castor oil plant
The paperplant, commonly grown as an ornamental and houseplant in warm temperate countries, has lustrous leaves with eight lobes resembling a hand. Because the sap from this plant might cause allergies in certain people, it must be handled with caution. This plant will occasionally produce black berries that birds will enjoy.
Scientific classification
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Perennial
Lifespan
1.2 m to 1.8 m
Spread
Green
Leaf Color
2.5 mm to 3 mm
Flower Size
Black
Fruit Color
White
Flower Color
Green
Stem Color
Winter dormancy
Dormancy
Evergreen
Leaf type
15 - 35 ℃
Ideal Temperature
Fall
Growth Season

Images of Paperplant

Distribution of Paperplant

Distribution Map
Paperplant (Fatsia japonica) is a species native to the coastal woodlands of Korea and Japan. Outside of this range, it has been introduced to Great Britain, New Zealand, and China. This attractive evergreen shrub makes a great addition to gardens worldwide.
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Introduced
No species reported
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Habitat
Waste areas, abandoned gardens
Hemisphere Trend Curve
Flowering
Fruiting

Culture

Environmental Protection Value
It has strong resistance to sulfur dioxide, and can absorb harmful gases and purify air.
Garden Use
The paperplant is commonly grown for contrast in shade gardens, in mass, or as a specimen plant. It is prized for its resistance to challenges such as shade, pollution, salt, and drought, and may be planted in containers and on patios. Plants such as Hellebores, Hostas, and Solomon's seal are great companion plants to the paperplant.
Symbolism
Abundant good fortune
Interesting Facts
Because there are eight lobes on the palm-shaped leaves of the paperplant, and fatsi is similar to the pronunciation of the Japanese “eight”, it is called the eight finger plant in Japan, or is also known as the Japanese dragon teeth plant.
Name Story
Paperplant: The common name for this plant may have come from a small experiment about detecting pests and diseases. If you put a piece of white paper under the leaves and tap the leaves, you need to pay attention to the pest control of the surroundings when you happen to find some pests on the paper. Hence, it is called Paperplant maybe because of that.
Fatsia: The name fatsia is a derivation of the Japanese word for 'eight' or also called "hachi" in modern romanization referring to the eight lobed leaves.
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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Paperplant, including the following common varieties :

Toxicity

Paperplant poses a mild toxicity risk to both cats and dogs. Ingesting the plant's parts can cause symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea. Immediate veterinary care is crucial to mitigate health complications if symptoms manifest in pets after consuming paperplant.
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RELATED: Toxicity of Paperplant

Quickly Identify Paperplant

1
Large, dark green palmate leaves with 7-11 serrate lobes and glossy, rippled texture.
2
Creamy white terminal umbel flowers resembling drumsticks bloom in late fall.
3
Small globose drupes transition from green to glossy black, clustering together on stems.
4
Thick, rigid stems with light green to brownish hue and prominent leaf scars.
5
Semi-dense profile, adaptable to acidic, well-drained soils, and moderate salt spray tolerance.
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Care Guide for Paperplant

Every 1-2 weeks
Water
Full shade
Sunlight
15 - 35 ℃
Ideal Temperature
Potting Mix, Garden Soil
Soil Type
Water: Paperplant thrives in moist, humid environments, preferring evenly moist soil. Water every 1-2 weeks, avoiding complete dryness. Typically grown indoors, it benefits from higher humidity; misting or placing it on a pebble tray with water can enhance its lush appearance.
Fertilize: Paperplant thrives with balanced nutrition fertilizers applied monthly in spring/summer. High nitrogen can enhance foliage, while fertilization should reduce to every 6-8 weeks in fall/winter. Ensure moist soil before application to prevent salt buildup and avoid fertilizing dormant plants to maintain health.
Pruning: Paperplant is an evergreen shrub that thrives with pruning, ideally in early to late winter. Focus on removing dead stems and thinning overcrowded areas to enhance air circulation. Regular pruning prevents legginess and promotes a fuller appearance, boosting the plant's overall vitality.
Propagation: The best time to propagate paperplant is during spring and summer using cuttings. This method is moderately easy, with success shown by fresh growth. Maintain appropriate humidity and temperature for optimal propagation results.
Repotting: Repot paperplant every 2-3 years in spring, selecting a pot slightly larger to avoid overwatering. Post-repotting, maintain humidity and indirect light for optimal recovery. While paperplant's bold foliage needs careful attention during this process, it remains resilient afterward.
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