Fatsia Japonica, also known as Fatsi or Japanese Aralia, is a plant of Japanese origin belonging to the Araliaceae family. Its Latin name, Fatsia japonica, is a Latin adaptation of an old Japanese name, Fatsi. This species of flowering plant is native to southern Japan and was introduced to the West in the early 1800s.

Physically, Fatsia Japonica is a semi-dense evergreen shrub or small tree that gives the appearance of tropical foliage. It is known for its slow growth to a height of 5 feet. Its leaves are glossy, fleshy, and often have eight lobes, which inspired part of its Japanese name, Fatsi, meaning "eight." In addition to its distinctive leaves, Fatsia Japonica produces berries that turn from green to a shiny black as they ripen.

Its bold, upright nature and tropical, oriental appearance make Fatsia Japonica a popular foliar accent plant in many gardens. It is especially popular in the Southeast due to its popularity and resilience. In summary, Fatsia Japonica is a plant with a rich history, exotic appearance, and remarkable adaptability.