Description
- Common names:
- Aralia Balfouriana, Polyscias Balf, Balfour Aralia, Dinner Plate Aralia, Shield Aralia, Aralia Balfour, Polyscias
- Botanical name:
- Polyscias scutellaria 'Balfourii', Aralia balfouriana
- Description:
- A stunning tropical plant from Asia featuring elegant round leaflets on graceful stems. Easy-care and sophisticated, perfect for adding tropical elegance to indoor spaces.
Features
- Rarity:
- Uncommon Find
- Pet & Babies safety:
- Mildly Toxic if Ingested (use caution)
- Air Purifier:
- Moderate Air Purifier (6/10)
- Form factor:
- Upright Bush, Architectural, Variegated Leaves, Tree-like
- Origin:
- Asia
- Aesthetic advantages:
- Living Room, Office, Entryway, Modern, Tropical, Asian-Inspired, Corner Statement Plant, Bookshelf
Care Guide
Care level:
Easy Care+
This tropical beauty is forgiving and adapts well to indoor conditions, making it ideal for busy plant parents. It tolerates occasional care mistakes and maintains its elegant appearance with minimal fuss.
Light:
Bright / Indirect Light+
Place near an east or west-facing window where it receives plenty of bright, filtered light. Direct sunlight can scorch the delicate leaves, while too little light will cause leggy growth and leaf drop.
Water:
Water When Dry+
Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 inches of soil feel dry to the touch. Allow excess water to drain completely, as Aralia Balfouriana is susceptible to root rot from overwatering.
Humidity:
Prefers High Humidity+
Thrives in humidity levels above 50-60%, reflecting its tropical origins. Increase humidity by placing on a pebble tray, grouping with other plants, or using a humidifier to prevent leaf drop.
Temperature:
Prefers Warmth+
Thrives in warm temperatures between 18-27°C (65-80°F) and dislikes sudden temperature changes. Keep away from cold drafts, air conditioning vents, and windows during winter months.
Hardiness zones:
Zones 10-12+
Hardy outdoors only in USDA Zones 10-12 where temperatures stay above 10°C (50°F) year-round. In cooler zones, grow as a houseplant or move containers indoors before the first frost.
Fertilizing:
Feed Monthly+
Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength once a month during the growing season (spring through summer). Reduce or stop fertilizing in fall and winter when growth naturally slows.
Repotting:
Repot Every 2-3 Years+
Repot every 2-3 years or when roots begin growing through drainage holes and the plant becomes top-heavy. Choose a pot only 2 inches larger to prevent overwatering issues in too much soil.
Cleaning:
Wipe Leaves Regularly+
Gently wipe leaves with a soft, damp cloth every few weeks to remove dust and allow the plant to photosynthesize efficiently. Clean leaves also showcase the plant's elegant foliage and help prevent pest issues.
Propagation:
Propagates by Cuttings+
Propagate by taking 4-6 inch stem cuttings with at least two leaf nodes in spring or summer. Root cuttings in water or moist potting mix, keeping them warm and humid until new growth appears in 4-6 weeks.