Japanese Aralia

Planting Japanese Aralia

Japanese aralia, also called glossy-leaved paper plant, grows in full shade where many other plants languish. Pair it with other low-light-loving plants to create a garden brimming with color and interest. Great planting companions include elephant's ear (Colocasia), sweet box (Sarcococca), flowering maple (Abutilon), cast-iron plant (Aspidistra), and bush lily (Clivia). When planted in a container and used as a houseplant and patio plant, Japanese aralia will create a striking display on its own, thanks to its bold texture.

Caring for Japanese Aralia

Japanese aralia grows well in part or full shade. Avoid planting it in areas that receive afternoon sun as its leaves will scorch in prolonged direct sun. Plant it in rich, moist soil that is well-drained. Plants growing in containers will thrive in high quality, humus-rich potting mix. Water plants deeply and regularly during the first growing season to encourage plants to establish a robust root system. Continue watering plants beyond the first growing season as needed during extended dry spells.

Japanese aralia blooms in late fall or winter. It sends up a flower stalk decorated with creamy flowers. Black berries follow the flowers. Plants grown indoors rarely flower. Japanese aralia doesn't usually require pruning. Remove old, faded foliage to maintain a tidy appearance. If plants need pruning, do it in the spring.

Transition container-grown plants outside in spring as soon as the temperatures are regularly above 55ºF at night. Place the plant in a location that receives shade all day or an area that gets a few hours of morning sun. Water plants regularly and fertilize with an all-purpose fertilizer monthly during spring and summer. Bring plants indoors in autumn when temperatures fall below 50ºF.