Fatshedera lizei Variegata

The Fatshedera lizei 'Variegata' is a compact and variegated foliage form of a hybrid between Fatsia japonica, or Japanese aralia, and the Hedera hibernica, the Irish ivy. The result is a small, elegantly climbing bush that bears large evergreen ivy leaves, variegated with green and white-cream. Often cultivated as a conservatory plant, the aralia-ivy can also be grown in the ground in mild regions. Plant it in a cool, humus-rich soil in partial shade to preserve the color of its foliage. It will bring a beautiful exotic touch to even the most modest decor.

Inspired gardeners from Nantes and lovers of exoticism, the Lizé brothers had the idea in 1912 to cross-breed the Fatsia japonica 'Moseri' and the Hedera helix subsp 'Hiberbica', both belonging to the same botanical family of Araliaceae. 'Variegata', which appeared later by chance and the play of spontaneous mutations, is distinguished by a more compact habit, reduced growth, and particularly bright foliage irregularly margined with white-cream.

This is a climbing shrub with a woody stump, with an upright or creeping bushy habit if supported. At maturity, this 'Variegata' form will reach an average height of 80 cm (31.5 in) with a spread of 70 cm (27.5 in). Its stems, unable to cling like those of ivy, bear large, tough, and thick leaves, measuring up to 20 cm (7.9 in) in diameter, evergreen in winter. Each leaf has a shiny lamina, dark green in color, variously maculated with more gray or lighter areas towards the center, and randomly margined with white-cream. Each leaf is deeply lobed into 5 lobes. Flowering sometimes occurs in November if the plant is not exposed to frost. It takes the form of small whitish flowers gathered in rounded bouquets resembling those of ivy. Occasionally, a few fruits may form.

Like its parent Fatsia japonica, Fatshedera lizei Variegata likes to be planted in partial shade, in cool, light, and rather acidic soil. While it can withstand, once mature, short frosts of around -10, or even -12°C (10.4 °F) in a very sheltered location, its foliage can be damaged by snow and winter winds. Place it in a highly protected spot, sheltered from cold, dry winds, as this will improve its hardiness. When discreetly supported, this arborescent ivy forms an elegant and unique subject, which will find its place in an exotic bed or in a Japanese-style garden. It can also be used as a bushy ground cover, alongside plants with lush foliage: rodgersias, fargesia or dwarf bamboos, hostas, silver candles, and Asarum maximum Giant, which thrive in the same environments. Cultivating it in a large pot presents no difficulty and will allow continental gardeners to shelter their variegated aralia-ivy in winter in the conservatory or in a bright and minimally heated room.