Polyscias scutellaria, also known as Shield Aralia or Dinner Plate Aralia, is a popular houseplant recognized for its unique, rounded foliage. Native to tropical regions, it adds lush greenery and an exotic feel to indoor spaces. Its distinctive leaves, which resemble small dinner plates, create a visually appealing texture that enhances interior designs.
Polyscias Scutellaria Care Requirements
Light Needs
Polyscias scutellaria thrives in bright, indirect light conditions. Placing the plant near a window that receives filtered sunlight, such as through a sheer curtain, is ideal for its growth and foliage development. Exposure to direct, intense sunlight can lead to leaf scorching, causing brown spots on the leaves. Conversely, insufficient light can result in leggy growth, where stems become elongated and sparse, and the plant may drop its lower leaves.
Watering
Keep the soil consistently moist but never waterlogged. Water the plant when the top inch or two of the soil feels dry to the touch. Overwatering is a common issue that can lead to root rot, a condition where roots decay due to lack of oxygen in soggy soil. Allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings, however, can cause the plant to wilt and drop its leaves. During winter months, the plant’s water requirements typically decrease due to slower growth.
Soil and Potting
A well-draining soil mix is essential for Polyscias scutellaria to prevent water accumulation around the roots. A loamy soil that retains some moisture while allowing excess water to escape is suitable. A mix containing potting soil, perlite, and peat moss or coconut coir can provide the necessary aeration and drainage. Ensuring the pot has adequate drainage holes is equally important to facilitate proper water flow and prevent root issues.
Temperature and Humidity
Polyscias scutellaria prefers warm temperatures, ideally ranging between 18°C to 24°C (64°F to 75°F). Sudden temperature fluctuations or exposure to cold drafts can cause stress and lead to leaf drop. This tropical plant also requires moderate to high humidity levels, ideally around 50-70%. To increase humidity, consider placing the plant on a pebble tray filled with water, using a room humidifier, or grouping it with other plants to create a localized humid environment.
Fertilizing
During the active growing season, which spans spring and summer, Polyscias scutellaria benefits from regular fertilization. A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer, diluted to half-strength, can be applied monthly. Some sources suggest using a fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10. Avoid fertilizing during the dormant winter months when the plant’s growth slows down. Newly purchased or recently repotted plants generally do not require fertilizer for the first year.
Maintaining Your Polyscias Scutellaria
Pruning
Pruning Polyscias scutellaria helps maintain its desired shape, control its size, and encourage bushier growth. Removing any dead, damaged, or yellowing leaves promotes overall plant health. Pruning can be done throughout the year for minor adjustments, but major shaping is often best performed in spring or early summer before the active growth period. When pruning, make clean cuts just above a leaf node or side shoot to stimulate new growth.
Repotting
Repotting is typically necessary every two to three years, or when the plant becomes root-bound, indicated by roots growing out of drainage holes or circling the pot. Choose a new pot that is only one size larger, approximately 2.5-5 centimeters (1-2 inches) wider in diameter than the current one, to provide adequate space without overwhelming the root system. When repotting, gently remove the plant, loosen any circling roots, and place it in the new pot with fresh, well-draining soil. The spring season is generally an optimal time for repotting, allowing the plant to recover and establish itself in its new container.
Common Problems and Solutions
Pests
Polyscias scutellaria can be susceptible to common houseplant pests such as spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. Regularly inspecting the plant’s foliage, especially the undersides of leaves, helps in early detection. If an infestation is found, treat the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Wiping the leaves with a damp cloth can also help remove spider mites and their webbing. Maintaining good plant health through proper care can also deter pests.
Leaf Issues
Yellowing leaves often indicate overwatering or a potential nutrient deficiency. If the soil is consistently soggy, allowing it to dry out more between waterings and ensuring proper drainage can resolve the issue. Brown leaf tips or edges can signal low humidity or underwatering. Increasing ambient humidity through misting or pebble trays, and adjusting the watering schedule to keep the soil moderately moist, can alleviate this symptom. Sudden leaf drop may occur due to environmental stress, such as cold drafts or significant changes in temperature and humidity. Providing a stable environment helps prevent this.
Propagating Polyscias Scutellaria
Polyscias scutellaria can be propagated using stem cuttings. This process is most successful when undertaken in spring or early summer during the plant’s active growth phase. Take healthy stem cuttings that are at least 4-6 inches long and have a few leaf nodes. Remove the lower leaves from the cutting, and if desired, dip the cut end in rooting hormone to encourage root development. Plant the cutting in a moist, well-draining potting mix and place it in a warm, bright location away from direct sunlight. Maintaining consistent moisture in the soil and providing high humidity, possibly by covering the pot with a clear plastic bag, will support successful rooting.