False Aralia
schefflera elegantissima
Also known as: ["Plerandra elegantissima","Schefflera elegantissima"]
Overview
A tropical evergreen shrub or small tree with elegant, deeply lobed, dark green leaves with a bronze or reddish tint when young.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Apiales |
| Family: | Araliaceae |
| Genus: | Schefflera |
| Botanical Name: | Schefflera elegantissima |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in a bright room with indirect light
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–27°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–12"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days, especially in dry indoor environments
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months or after significant growth.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon rays.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to new light conditions; protect from intense direct sun to prevent leaf burn; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
bright, indirect light
Rotate plant monthly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh light; avoid placing near west-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Allow soil to dry partially between waterings; avoid overwatering; ensure good drainage.
Soil
well-draining, peat-based potting mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with fresh soil annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but dislikes drafts or extreme heat/cold.
Avoid placing near heating/cooling vents; maintain stable temperatures; protect from sudden changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer, with a balanced liquid fertilizer
Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent salt buildup; flush soil occasionally to remove excess salts; apply fertilizer to moist soil.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or soil.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cutting with nodes.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Place in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Transplant when rooted.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.
Environment
Warm, humid, and bright indirect light with consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining mix like perlite and peat moss, or water for initial rooting.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 3–6 weeks; establish in new pot after 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, container, water or soil medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; change water regularly if using water propagation.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node or branch junction.
Pruning Plan
Shape plant, remove leggy growth, and encourage bushier form; remove dead or damaged stems.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruners or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune during active growth; remove dead/damaged parts; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the pot; beneficial for growth and soil freshness.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil mix; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water deeply until it drains from the bottom, ensuring root zone saturation; avoid wetting foliage; water in the morning for optimal absorption.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil feel dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, yellowing, or wilting; stunted growth; bud drop.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root damage in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer spot; insulate from drafts; avoid sudden temperature drops.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or leaf drop due to excessive heat and dry air.
Solution: Increase humidity with misting or pebble trays; provide shade; ensure adequate watering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild to moderate irritation if they ingest Schefflera elegantissima. The calcium oxalate crystals can cause oral and gastrointestinal distress, though severe systemic toxicity is rare.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Schefflera elegantissima can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of calcium oxalate crystals. The effects are generally not life-threatening but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicSchefflera elegantissima contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause mild to moderate irritation upon ingestion. The physiological impact is primarily localized to the oral cavity and gastrointestinal tract, with minimal systemic effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Schefflera elegantissima toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How much light does False Aralia need?
A: It prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light conditions.
Q: Why are the leaves of my False Aralia turning yellow?
A: Yellow leaves can indicate overwatering, underwatering, or low humidity.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Araliaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | bright, indirect light |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
