The Fatshedera is a useful foliage plant of erect habit that can be quite tolerant of a variety of conditions. It is, however, very susceptible to over-watering and will suffer rapid root loss and wilt if it is kept too wet. It is therefore wise to allow the compost to dry out a little between waterings. The Fatshedera’s erect growth is not very rigid and requires support from a cane or framework; alternatively, it can be trained to grow up a trellis. To create a more massed effect put several specimens together in the same pot. The variegated form of Fatshedera, F. l. ‘Variegata’, is slower-growing, which tends to make it even more susceptible to Over¬watering.

Plant type : Foliage plant with erect semi-climbing habit
Season of interest : All year round
Size : 100-150cm (39—59in)
Flower : None
Leaf : Maple-leaf shape with five lobes, 7.5-15cm (3—6in), green
Temperature : 15-20°C (60 — 68°F)
Aspect/Light : Moderate to bright light
Humidity : Moderate
Watering : Evenly moisten compost In spring and summer, taking care not to over-water and allowing to get on the dry side before re-watering; keep drier in autumn and winter
Feeding : Once every two to four weeks In spring and summer
Propagation : Plant 7.5-10cm (3-4in) tip cuttings in seed and cutting compost at 18-20°C (65—68°F)
Potting : Houseplant potting compost
Problems : Aphid, red spider mite, mealy bug, root rot from over-watering
Availability : Commonly available throughout year
Uses indoors : Suitable for most rooms, including offices, quite near to window
Other varieties : F. l. 'Variegata' - green and white leaves; more delicate; slower-growing