Fatsia japonica ‘Murakumo Nishiki’ is a distinctive cultivar of the Japanese Aralia, valued for its ornamental appeal. This evergreen shrub adds elegance to garden settings or indoor spaces, making it a popular choice for its visual interest and refined presence.
Unique Characteristics
Fatsia japonica ‘Murakumo Nishiki’ stands out with decorative foliage featuring a captivating variegation pattern. Its large, deeply lobed leaves display irregular blotches and splashes of creamy white, yellow, or chartreuse against a dark green background. This “gathering clouds brocade” effect, as its name suggests, gives each leaf a unique, painterly quality.
The leaves, up to 18 inches long, contribute to the plant’s tropical and architectural appearance. Their glossy texture enhances the variegated foliage. This irregularly branched, spreading evergreen shrub typically reaches 5 to 10 feet tall and 4 to 8 feet wide.
Cultivation and Care
Light
Fatsia japonica ‘Murakumo Nishiki’ thrives in bright, indirect light or partial to full shade. Variegated forms require brighter conditions than standard Fatsia japonica to maintain vibrant coloration. Too much direct sunlight, especially harsh afternoon rays, can bleach or burn the leaves. A north-facing window indoors or a shaded outdoor spot with filtered morning light is ideal.
Soil
This plant prefers moist, well-drained soil rich in organic matter. Good drainage is paramount; waterlogged conditions quickly lead to root rot. While adaptable to various soil types (average, gritty, clay, loam, or sandy), adequate drainage is more important than specific soil composition. It tolerates a wide pH range, from acidic to alkaline or neutral.
Watering
Consistent moisture is important, especially during its active growing season in spring and summer. Keep the soil consistently moist, but not soggy, allowing the top inch or two to dry out slightly between waterings. Overwatering can cause leaves to yellow and drop. During fall and winter, reduce watering frequency.
Temperature and Humidity
Fatsia japonica ‘Murakumo Nishiki’ prefers cooler temperatures, ideally 60-70°F (15-21°C) during the growing season and 45-55°F (7-13°C) in winter. It is hardy in USDA Zones 7a to 11, but benefits from protection against cold, drying winds and hard frosts. While it appreciates medium to high humidity, especially indoors, it does not require additional humidification.
Fertilizing
During spring and summer, fertilize with a balanced liquid fertilizer every other week at half strength. Alternatively, apply a slow-release granular fertilizer in spring after the last frost. Reduce feeding to once a month in fall and winter, or cease if the plant is dormant. Over-fertilizing can lead to nutrient burn.
Propagation
Propagation is commonly achieved through stem cuttings, best taken in early or late summer. Select a healthy stem section 6-8 inches long with several leaves and at least one node. Remove lower leaves to expose nodes, as roots emerge from these points.
Dipping the cut end in rooting hormone powder can enhance success, though some find success without it, especially with water propagation. Insert cuttings into a well-draining rooting medium (e.g., peat-free compost and perlite mix) or directly into water. Maintain consistent moisture, a warm environment (ideally 60-70°F / 15-21°C), and high humidity by covering with a plastic bag or dome. Rooting takes several weeks; new leaf growth indicates establishment.
Common Issues and Solutions
Fatsia japonica ‘Murakumo Nishiki’ is generally robust but can encounter issues. Common pests include spider mites, mealybugs, thrips, and scale insects. Regular inspection, particularly of leaf undersides and stem axils, helps detect infestations early. Horticultural oil (e.g., neem oil) or insecticidal soaps manage these pests.
Diseases are less frequent but can include leaf spot and root rot. Root rot, primarily caused by overwatering and poor drainage, manifests as yellowing and dropping leaves. Ensuring well-draining soil and allowing it to dry slightly between waterings prevents this.
Variegated cultivars may experience a loss of variegation, where new growth becomes entirely green. This natural reversion often requires pruning back green growth to encourage variegated sections. Browning of white or yellow areas can occur due to too much direct sun or insufficient humidity.