Fatsia polycarpa 'Greenfingers'®

Fatsia polycarpa 'Greenfingers' Care Guide

Fatsia polycarpa 'Greenfingers' is a rare, exotic-looking evergreen shrub prized for its bold, deeply lobed green foliage and architectural presence. Native to Taiwan, this variety of Fatsia is well-suited for shady gardens, woodland settings, and sheltered urban spaces, providing year-round interest. With its fast-growing nature and low-maintenance requirements, it is an excellent choice for gardeners seeking a tropical effect with minimal effort.

Ideal Growing Conditions

• Botanical Name: Fatsia polycarpa 'Greenfingers'
• Common Name: Taiwan Fatsia
• Plant Type: Evergreen shrub
• Mature Size: Reaches 1.5-2.5m in height and 1-2m in spread
• Growth Habit: Bushy and upright with large, deeply cut green leaves
• Flowering Period: Produces clusters of creamy-white flowers in autumn, followed by black berries in winter
• Hardiness: Hardy in USDA zones 8-10, tolerating mild frost

Light and Soil Preferences

• Light: Thrives in partial to full shade. Tolerates dappled sunlight, but direct sun can scorch the leaves.
• Soil: Prefers moist, well-drained soil, rich in organic matter.
• pH Level: Grows well in neutral to slightly acidic soil (pH 6.0-7.5).
• Drought Tolerance: Somewhat drought-resistant once established, but prefers consistent moisture.

Watering and Moisture Needs

• Regular Watering: Keep the soil evenly moist during the first year to help establish strong roots.
• Drought Resistance: Mature plants can tolerate short dry spells but benefit from occasional deep watering.
• Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch to retain soil moisture and regulate temperature.

Planting and Maintenance

How to Plant Fatsia polycarpa 'Greenfingers'

• Planting Time: Best planted in spring or autumn when temperatures are mild.
• Spacing: Allow 1.5-2m between plants for full development.
• Depth: Plant at the same depth as in the nursery container, ensuring the root ball is just below the soil surface.
• Container Growing: Can be grown in large pots or planters using a well-draining compost mix.

Pruning and Deadheading

• Minimal Pruning Needed: Generally maintains its shape naturally, requiring little pruning.
• Removing Damaged Leaves: Trim off dead or damaged leaves in late winter or early spring.
• Controlling Size: If needed, lightly prune in early spring to maintain a compact form.

Feeding and Fertilization

• Spring Feeding: Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring to promote healthy growth.
• Organic Boost: Incorporate compost or well-rotted manure around the base in spring for extra nutrients.
• Avoid Over-Fertilization: Too much nitrogen can encourage excessive leaf growth with weaker stems.

Common Pests, Diseases, and Seasonal Care

Potential Pests and Diseases

• Spider Mites and Scale Insects: May occasionally appear, especially in dry or indoor conditions.
  • Solution: Spray leaves with insecticidal soap or neem oil to keep pests under control.
• Leaf Spot and Powdery Mildew: Can develop if conditions are too humid with poor airflow.
  • Solution: Improve air circulation and avoid watering directly on the leaves.
• Frost Damage: Though hardy, young plants may suffer in harsh winters.
  • Solution: Provide winter protection with fleece or mulch if temperatures drop significantly.

Seasonal Care Tips

• Spring: Feed with fertilizer, check for pests, and trim any damaged foliage.
• Summer: Water regularly in dry periods, especially for container plants.
• Autumn: Enjoy the unique flower clusters, and watch for the formation of black berries.
• Winter: Protect young plants from severe frost and ensure soil remains moist but not waterlogged.

Garden Uses and Companion Planting

Fatsia polycarpa 'Greenfingers' is a bold, architectural plant that adds drama and structure to shaded areas. Its large, tropical-looking foliage makes it a standout feature in various garden settings:

• Shady Borders – Ideal for underplanting trees or creating lush green backdrops.
• Woodland Gardens – Blends well with ferns, hostas, and hellebores for a naturalistic look.
• Urban Gardens and Courtyards – Thrives in sheltered spaces with limited sunlight.
• Container Displays – Provides evergreen interest in patios, terraces, or entranceways.

Best Companion Plants

• Ferns – Create a contrasting texture with their fine, feathery fronds.
• Hostas – Pair well for a lush, shade-loving display.
• Camellias – Add seasonal color with their bright winter and spring blooms.
• Heuchera – Offers colorful foliage that contrasts beautifully with Fatsia's green leaves.

Summary

Fatsia polycarpa 'Greenfingers' is a stunning, shade-loving evergreen shrub that brings a tropical feel to gardens with its large, deeply lobed foliage. It thrives in partial to full shade, requiring moist, well-drained soil and minimal pruning. With its resilience to pests, ability to grow in containers, and year-round interest, this low-maintenance plant is an excellent choice for gardens seeking structure and lush greenery with little effort

• Size
  2 Ltr pot

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Live Plant delivery charges are not calculated on weight but on the space required per package to ensure safe delivery, so delivery charges may vary as some plants require more space than others when packed.
All live plants are despatched within 3-5 working days where possible, our couriers aim to deliver within 48 hours of despatch from our Garden Centre to allow the plant to arrive in healthy condition.
 

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