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Key characteristics

Family: Araliaceae
Height: 4 to 8 feet depending on growing conditions
Width: 4 to 6 feet
Flower color: White
Foliage color: Green with irregular cream variegation
Bloom time: Late fall
Light: Full shade to part shade
Water: Average
Maintenance: Low
Growing zone: USDA Zones 7 to 11
Wildlife: Beneficial for insects and bees; deer-resistant in many cases

Shrubs

Fatsia japonica 'Variegata'

Variegated Japanese Aralia

Fatsia japonica 'Variegata' is an evergreen shrub prized for its dramatic, tropical-looking foliage. Its large, lobed leaves are splashed with creamy white variegation, creating a bold contrast against the green. During autumn and early winter, the plant produces clusters of small, white flowers in rounded umbels, which are often followed by dark, berry-like fruits.

This variegated cultivar originates from Japan, where the species is native, and has been cultivated for its unique foliage and ornamental appeal.

Light

Full shade to part shade

Water

Average

Bloom time

Late fall

Find this plant

Works well in

Shade Gardens
Woodland Gardens
Under Trees
Specimen Plants

Companion plants

Mahonias · Astilbe · Heucheras · Maidenhair fern · Corydalis · Lily-of-the-valley

Design tip

Irregular cream splashes make each oversized leaf a prominent part of the composition, so ‘Variegata’ benefits from relatively simple surroundings. Pair it with solid-green foliage rather than additional variegated plants, allowing its bold leaf pattern to provide the detail.

Printable plant sheet (PDF)