x Fatshedera Lizei
( fat - sheh - DEHR - uh LIZ - ay )
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At-A-Glance InformationThis hybrid shrub is perennial and native to China and Japan, and is commonly called Tree Ivy or Aralia Ivy. Large-leafed and water-loving, they like some shade or bright indirect light (if grown indoors). Leaves are glossy and bright green, and flower stalks carry yellow daisy-like flowers. They are somewhat climbing shrubs, though cannot hold onto structures themselves and will need a good amount of training and attachment help to form a vine-like habit if desired.
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x Fatshedera Lizei Varietals
The hybrid genus x Fatshedera contains only one species: x Fatshedera lizei, and is a member of the family Araliaceae. The species was created in France by crossing Fatsia japonica 'Moserii' (seed parent) with Hedera helix (pollen parent). Aralia Ivy grows best in zones 4-10, 14-24, H1 and H2 and also makes a great houseplant. To find your zone, click here: Zone Map.
'Argenteum'
Smaller, deep green leaves marbled with grey-green and white. |
'Aureomaculata' (Leopard Plant)
This species has thick, leathery leaves that are heavily, evenly speckled with yellow. |
'Crispatum'
This species is sometimes called 'Pie Crust Ligularia', and has thick, ruffled leaves edged in grey-green. |
Caring for and pruning x Fatshedera Lizei shrubs
Indoors, these plants require bright, indirect light and acidic to alkaline soil that is amended with loam and sand. They like well-draining soil that is kept moist. Avoid overwatering indoor plants, and ensure that the temperature is not getting too warm (especially if the plant is grown by a sunny window). To prune into a climber, pinch off growth to encourage branching; stems will not naturally branch on their own. Fertilize with a houseplant fertilizer during the growing season. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer packaging for frequency and strength directions. Withhold feedings in wintertime.
Outdoors, this plant is best in a shaded (with some dappled light), protected area (such as a courtyard or entryway). If planting in multiples for coverage, space about 3-6 feet apart. Plant Aralia Ivy in rich, loamy soil that is well-draining with an acidic to neutral pH. Water whenever the soil surface gets dry, and take care not to overwater. The plant will go dormant in the wintertime; during this period it is best to lessen waterings, but do not allow the soil to dry out completely. These plants like a bit of humidity; if planted in an open area, mist the plant every once in a while to achieve this effect. Prune at any time to control growth. To encourage more branching, pinch back new growth. Fertilize with a houseplant fertilizer during the growing season. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer packaging for frequency and strength directions. Withhold feedings in wintertime.
Outdoors, this plant is best in a shaded (with some dappled light), protected area (such as a courtyard or entryway). If planting in multiples for coverage, space about 3-6 feet apart. Plant Aralia Ivy in rich, loamy soil that is well-draining with an acidic to neutral pH. Water whenever the soil surface gets dry, and take care not to overwater. The plant will go dormant in the wintertime; during this period it is best to lessen waterings, but do not allow the soil to dry out completely. These plants like a bit of humidity; if planted in an open area, mist the plant every once in a while to achieve this effect. Prune at any time to control growth. To encourage more branching, pinch back new growth. Fertilize with a houseplant fertilizer during the growing season. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer packaging for frequency and strength directions. Withhold feedings in wintertime.
Propagation
Aralia Ivy is sterile, and therefore cannot be propagated via seed, making propagation by cutting the main method of reproducing these plants. To propagate via cutting, follow the instructions below:
Propagating x Fatshedera lizei by Cutting
Propagating x Fatshedera lizei by Cutting
- Gather your materials. You'll need a clean, sanitized, sharp pair of garden shears, rooting hormone, and a 3-5 inch pot filled with sphagnum peat moss.
- In spring or early summertime, choose the plant that you'd like to propagate. Ensure that this plant has had a good watering the night before, as this will improve the chances your cutting will take root. Cut one or more 6 inch portion(s) of the end of a non-blooming branch and strip the leaves off of the lower half. Dip the end of the stem in rooting hormone, and plant it in your pot. Fill in soil around the cutting to support it, but do not pack it down too much.
- Moisten with water, and ensure that the pot has good drainage. Your pot should be kept in warm, sunny conditions indoors (and not in direct sunlight). Keep planting medium moist. After about four to six weeks have passed, your cutting should be rooted. When you notice new growth, you'll know you have roots.
- Keep your new plant in an area with bright light (though not direct sunlight) and temperatures between 55 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Ensure that the planting medium stays moist but not wet, until the plant has reached an adequate size to be transplanted to a larger pot, or planted in its forever home in your garden.
Problems and Pests
Tree Ivy is generally pest free, but the following issues can crop up:
- Spider Mites
- Aphids
- Mealybugs
Gallery
Grow Aralia Ivy on fences or railings.
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These tropical looking plants pair well with other tropicals, like Bamboo.
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When not staked, Aralia Ivy forms a loose shrub.
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Videos
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All about growing x Fatshedera lizei indoors.
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An introduction to this great hybrid plant.
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Resources
The New Sunset Western Garden Book: The Ultimate Gardening Guide (2012) - Pages 318 - 319, x Fatshedera lizei
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