How to Grow Fatshedera
iNaturalist
Fatshedera
Fatshedera lizei
shrubFatshedera is a hybrid evergreen shrub created from crossing Fatsia japonica and Hedera helix, combining the best traits of both parents. It features attractive palmate leaves on trailing or climbing stems and is prized as an ornamental houseplant and garden specimen. This versatile plant can be grown as a climbing vine, trailing ground cover, or upright shrub depending on support and pruning.
When should you plant Fatshedera in your zone?
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Example Fatshedera timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Fatshedera
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Fatshedera
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Fatshedera dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 9-11; can be grown indoors as a houseplant in cooler climates
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Get my Fatshedera timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
3-4 weeksYoung plant with limited vine/stem growth; developing root system in new location
Water regularly to establish roots; keep in bright indirect light; maintain humidity; avoid fertilizing for first month
Vegetative Growth
Ongoing spring-summerStems lengthen with successive palmate leaves; plant fills out with glossy foliage; no flowers yet
Pinch back growing tips to encourage bushiness; provide climbing support if desired; feed monthly with balanced fertilizer during growing season
Mature Growth
1-2 years onwardPlant reaches full size with established vine/shrub form; stems woody and established; dense foliage
Prune as needed to maintain shape and size; reduce fertilizing frequency; maintain consistent watering and humidity
Flowering
Late fall to winter (rare indoors)Small greenish-white flowers appear in clusters on mature plants; flowers are inconspicuous but add architectural interest
Flowering indicates plant maturity; not essential for ornamental value; flowers may be followed by dark berries
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Increase humidity with regular misting; spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap; rinse leaves with water
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Remove with cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol; spray with neem oil; isolate affected plant
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Manually remove with brush; spray with horticultural oil or neem oil; prune heavily infested stems
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Yellow sticky traps; spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil; improve air circulation
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Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; ensure excellent drainage; repot in fresh soil if severe
Uses
Indoor Houseplant
HouseholdFatshedera is an excellent low-maintenance houseplant that purifies indoor air while adding sophisticated tropical foliage to interiors. Its climbing or trailing growth habit makes it perfect for shelves, hanging baskets, trellises, or topiaries. [source]
Floral Arrangements and Greenery
CraftCut stems with glossy palmate leaves are prized by florists and flower arrangers for their architectural interest and long vase life. The foliage adds texture and sophistication to mixed arrangements. [source]
Garden Climbing and Ground Cover
HouseholdIn frost-free climates, Fatshedera excels as a living wall plant on trellises, as a trailing ground cover on banks, or as topiary specimens in containers. Its evergreen nature provides year-round interest. [source]
Ornamental Topiary
HouseholdThe plant's flexible stems and dense foliage make it ideal for training into formal topiary shapes including cones, standards, and creative forms. Regular pinching and pruning create sculptural specimens. [source]
Wildlife Support
WildlifeMature plants that flower and fruit provide food sources for birds and beneficial insects. The dense foliage offers shelter and nesting opportunities for small creatures. [source]
Harvest Tips
Not harvested for food or material. For ornamental use, cut stems can be used in floral arrangements. Pinch back growing tips regularly to encourage bushier growth and prevent legginess. Remove dead or diseased foliage promptly.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Fatshedera is a relatively young hybrid, created in France in 1910 by the Lizei nursery (hence the species name 'lizei'), making it one of the most modern ornamental plants in cultivation.
- 🌱 This plant combines the large, dramatic palmate leaves of Fatsia japonica with the climbing ability and hardiness of English ivy (Hedera helix), but is more elegant and less aggressive than either parent.
- 🌱 In ideal conditions, Fatshedera can reach 10 feet or more in height if given proper support, but it responds beautifully to pruning and can be maintained as a compact houseplant for decades.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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