Laceleaf
polyscias filicifolia
Also known as: ["Arboricola","Ming Aralia"]
Overview
A tropical evergreen shrub with delicate, fern-like foliage, often grown as a decorative indoor plant.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Apiales |
| Family: | Araliaceae |
| Genus: | Polyscias |
| Botanical Name: | Polyscias filicifolia |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, humid room
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–27°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days, especially in dry indoor environments
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with peat, perlite, and organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- 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; adjust to lower light in winter.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate to brighter light gradually; protect from direct sun to prevent scorching; place near east-facing windows indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
bright, indirect light
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter direct light; avoid south-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).
Use pots with drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; topdress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–75°F (18–24°C); tolerates 50–85°F (10–29°C); avoid sudden temperature fluctuations.
Avoid placing near drafty windows; maintain stable temperatures; protect from heat sources.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring–summer), with balanced liquid fertilizer
Flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid fertilizing newly repotted plants; apply to moist soil.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or soil.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Place in medium.
- Maintain moisture.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.
Environment
High humidity, indirect light, and warm temperatures (70–75°F).
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite, or water for initial rooting.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 3–6 weeks; new growth in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, container, misting spray.
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 just above a leaf node to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Remove leggy growth, dead leaves, and maintain shape to encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during active growth; remove dead/damaged parts; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
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; use fresh potting mix to refresh nutrients.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; trim roots; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; avoid leaf wetting.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water deeply until it drains from the bottom, ensuring root zone saturation; avoid wetting foliage; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure proper aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, leaf drop, stunted growth, or brown leaf tips.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root damage in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pot with bubble wrap; avoid cold drafts.
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 ventilation.
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
Non-toxicPolyscias filicifolia is not toxic to cats. There are no known adverse effects on feline health from ingestion or contact.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicPolyscias filicifolia is not toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects on canine health from ingestion or contact.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicPolyscias filicifolia is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with ingestion or contact.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Polyscias filicifolia?
A: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically once a week.
Q: Does Polyscias filicifolia need direct sunlight?
A: No, it prefers bright, indirect light.
Q: Is Polyscias filicifolia toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Araliaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | bright, indirect light |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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