Balfour Aralia

polyscias scutellaria

Also known as: ["Filodendron","False Aralia"]

Family: Araliaceae Genus: Polyscias Category: Leaf Plants

Overview

A tropical evergreen shrub with delicate, lacy foliage and an upright growth habit, often used as an ornamental indoor plant.

Benefits & Perks

["aesthetic foliage","shade tolerant"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Apiales
Family: Araliaceae
Genus: Polyscias
Botanical Name: Polyscias scutellaria

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Leaf Plants
  • Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, indirect light or shaded outdoor garden
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Indoor Plant Lovers Collectors & Enthusiasts
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"10–12"}
  • Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain humidity, especially in dry 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: Every 2–3 months or as needed to maintain shape.
  • 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 gradually to brighter light; protect from direct sun to avoid scorching; place near east-facing windows for ideal light.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil or drainage issues.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

partial shade to 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, loamy, organic-rich potting mix

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.

Temperature

Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C); tolerates slight fluctuations but dislikes drafts.

Avoid placing near vents; maintain stable temperatures; use a humidifier in dry environments.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring–summer)

Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings in water or soil.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Place in medium.
  4. Maintain humidity.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm, humid, and bright indirect light with consistent moisture.

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

Pruners, rooting hormone, container, misting spray.

Quick Tips

Use healthy parent stems; maintain high humidity; change water regularly if using water propagation.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node.

Pruning Plan

Shape the plant, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead/damaged foliage.

Tools

Clean, sharp pruners or scissors.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune during active growth; remove yellowing leaves; shape evenly.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring before new growth begins.

Pot Size

One size larger pot (1–2 inches wider in diameter).

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in fresh soil with good drainage.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the pot to refresh soil and provide space.

Checklist

Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil mix.

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 moisture reaches the root zone; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues.

Pro Tip: Use room temperature water to avoid shocking the roots.
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 coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Yellowing leaves, leaf drop, or stunted growth due to extreme cold or heat.

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 dehydration in excessively high temperatures.

Solution: Increase humidity, provide shade, and water more frequently in hot conditions.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid winter feeding.

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

Yellow leaves in Polyscias scutellaria can indicate various issues, including nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting the plant's overall health and photosynthetic efficiency.

Wilting in Polyscias scutellaria is often a sign of water stress, either due to underwatering or root issues, which can lead to reduced turgor pressure and impaired nutrient uptake.

Leaf spots on Polyscias scutellaria may be caused by fungal or bacterial infections, resulting in aesthetic damage and potentially reduced photosynthetic capacity if severe.

Rotting, particularly root rot, can occur in Polyscias scutellaria due to overwatering or poor drainage, leading to decay of root tissues and eventual plant decline.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats that ingest Polyscias scutellaria may experience mild gastrointestinal discomfort. Skin contact with the plant's sap can lead to minor irritation.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea drooling
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves stems
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Ensure cats cannot access the plant. Seek veterinary advice if ingestion is suspected.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

Ingestion of Polyscias scutellaria by dogs may result in mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant's sap can also cause mild skin irritation if contact occurs.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves stems
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep pets away from the plant to prevent ingestion. If ingestion occurs, consult a veterinarian.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Polyscias scutellaria contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and skin irritation upon contact. The plant's sap may also lead to minor dermatitis in sensitive individuals.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting diarrhea skin irritation
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves stems
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion and minimize skin contact with the plant sap. Wash hands thoroughly after handling.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How often should I water Polyscias scutellaria?

A: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically once a week, but adjust based on humidity and season.

Q: Does Balfour Aralia need direct sunlight?

A: No, it prefers bright, indirect light and can tolerate lower light conditions.

Q: Why are the leaves of my Polyscias scutellaria turning yellow?

A: Yellow leaves may indicate overwatering, underwatering, or low humidity; check soil moisture and environmental conditions.

Quick Reference
Family: Araliaceae
Care: moderate
Light: partial shade to bright indire
Water: every 7–10 days, allowing so
Suitable For: ["beginners","indoor plant lovers","collectors/enthusiasts"]
Get Expert Care Tips

Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!

Google Play App Store
Share This Plant

Related Plants

Cabbage Tree
View
Dwarf Umbrella Tree
View
Balao
View
Devil's Walking Stick
View