This is the offspring of a breeding-cross between Fatsia japonica ‘Moseri’ and Hedera hibernica, two distinct genera within the same plant family. Also called ivy tree, it. is an attractive, evergreen plant bearing characteristics from both parents and inheriting their ease of cultivation.
From fatsia comes the wide-spreading glossy leaves, from hedera the sprawling sterns, which can be trained up canes or pinched to produce a more bushy effect. The young leaves are covered in rust-colored hairs. Cultivars include: x F.L ‘Annernieke’ with leaves marked yellow; x F.L ‘Pia,’ with wavy green leaves; and x F.L ‘Variegata,’ which has white marks on the leaves.
Size: Height 4 ft. (1.2 m).
Light: Cool light. Variegated forms need more light than green ones.
Temperature: Keep variegated forms above 60°F (15°C) at all times; green forms tolerate a much cooler position, even an unheated conservatory.
Moisture: Keep moist from spring to fall. Apply only enough water in winter to prevent the soil mix from drying out.
Feeding: Apply standard liquid fertilizer every two weeks in spring and summer.
Propagation: Take tip cuttings, 4 in. (10 cm) long, or stem cuttings, 2 in. (5 cm) long, in spring or summer. Dip in rooting hormone, enclose in a plastic bag, and then put in a warm, bright place.
Special needs: In warmer positions, increase humidity by placing the pot on a tray of moist pebbles.