Dendropanax japonicus

Dendropanax japonicus is a bush belonging to the Araliaceae family and still very rare in cultivation. It forms a large bush or a small evergreen tree to be grown in protected areas. Perfect for a contemporary ambiance or exotic garden.

Also called Dendropanax trifidus, this cousin of ivy and false aralia (Fatsia japonica) has large, dark green, leathery and shiny leaves, whose shape varies depending on the ripeness of the plant. This phenomenon, which botanists call "foliar polymorphism", is also observed in ivy. In the case of Dendropanax japonicus, the leaves of juvenile plants are divided into 2 to 3 lobes, sometimes 5, while mature plants (those that are old enough to flower) have entire leaves of oval to elliptical shape, 10 cm to 20 cm (3.9 in to 7.9 in) long. The leaves are arranged alternately on the stems, which are of a beautiful shiny green colour. The old stems take on a greyish colour. In June-July, a discreet flowering appears: it is typical of the Araliaceae, in terminal umbels of apetalous flowers (without petals) with a grey-green colour. This is followed by black berries like those of ivy.

Dendropanax japonicus can reach a height of 4 m (13.1 ft) in favourable conditions. It can form a small trunk at the base or grow in clumps. It will thus become a large bush or a small tree with a rounded crown. In any case, its habit is always airy and very elegant. It is considered hardy down to -8° C to -12° C (17.6° F to 10.4° F). It is possible that a well-established plant may lose its foliage in cold weather, but it will regrow from the base when temperatures increase. It can therefore be planted in sheltered gardens on the coast or in city centres. Its modest size is ideal for small urban gardens. It greatly appreciates hot summers but it will only tolerate full sun if the ambient air is not too dry in summer, otherwise its foliage will turn yellow: in that case, it is better to choose a cool and semi-shaded location.

Its natural habitat is located in forests and coppices of subtropical to temperate areas from southern Japan to Taiwan. The Dendropanax genus includes about a hundred species, but Dendropanax japonicus is currently the only cultivated species in the West.