Photo: Fernando Losada Rodríguez, CC BY-SA 4.0 · source
Pruning guide · Shrub
Japanese aralia: when and how to prune
Fatsia japonica
Japanese aralia is best pruned in April–May.
| Pruning months | April–May |
|---|---|
| Nesting season (15 March–15 August) | Take care in April–May |
| Flowering | October–November |
| Native to Belgium | No, planted |
Japanese aralia: when to prune it?
In April–May.
Japanese aralia: how to prune it?
- Saw off overtall or bare stems low down; it sprouts again from the base.
- Every spring, remove damaged leaves and stems so that the plant stays fresh and compact.
How much to cut, and how often?
- One pruning period a year: April–May.
- Grows best when left alone. Only remove dead, diseased or awkward branches.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- Pruning in April–May can fall in the nesting season (15 March–15 August). Check carefully for nesting birds first: disturbing an active nest is against the law.
- Prunings can go on a dead hedge or brash pile in a corner of the garden: shelter for hedgehogs, wrens and insects.
Common mistakes
- Clipping without first checking for nesting birds.
- Pruning too much: it grows best when left alone.
- Leaving a stub or sawing flush with the trunk: cut just outside the branch collar.
Caution: In severe winters the leaves can be damaged by frost; only remove damaged leaves in spring.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Similar to: Difference from spotted laurel · Difference from common ivy
Plant profile: Japanese aralia · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.