How to Propagate Fatsia from Seed | Gardener's Path

How to Propagate Fatsia from Seed

Also known as Japanese aralia and paperplant, fatsias (Fatsia japonica) are popular houseplants and as an added bonus they are easy to grow from seed – all you need is a few supplies and a healthy dose of patience!

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If you’ve tried propagating Japanese aralia from seed before and failed, you may have skipped some important steps needed for germination.

In this article, you’ll learn how to propagate fatsia from seed in four easy steps.

Here’s a sneak peek at the process:

I recommend you read through the entire process first, as you have some options as to how to proceed.

And if you need general guidance on caring for these plants, be sure to read our complete guide to growing Japanese aralia as well!

Propagating long-lived houseplants in this manner isn’t that different from growing annuals indoors from seed.

Of course, the very first thing you’ll need for this project is to get your hands on some Japanese aralia seeds.

For best results, use fresh ones. Many people grow Japanese aralias as ornamental shrubs in their yards, so if a friend has one, why not ask if you can harvest some berries?

These shrubs produce flowers in fall, followed by berries in winter.

But if the only shrub in your area is in the yard of a stranger – make sure to ask permission first before picking any of the berries!

When harvesting berries, wait until they turn dark, almost black to make sure the paperplant kernels inside are mature.

When you’re ready to sow, remove the pulp surrounding the seeds, by squeezing the seed out of the ripe berry.

If you’re able to use fresh berries