The Shield Aralia (Polyscias scutellaria) is a tropical plant valued for its ornamental foliage. Originating from Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands, this evergreen shrub or small tree features distinctive rounded, shield-shaped leaves, adding a lush, tropical feel to indoor and outdoor spaces. It is often cultivated as a houseplant due to its attractive appearance and relatively low maintenance requirements.
Shield Aralia Care
Light Needs
Shield Aralia thrives in bright, indirect light, similar to its natural habitat as an understory plant. Indoors, an east or north-facing window providing filtered sunlight is ideal. While it tolerates some shade, insufficient light causes leggy growth and sparse, pale leaves. Conversely, direct, intense sunlight, especially harsh afternoon sun, can scorch its delicate leaves, leading to discoloration or brown marks.
Watering Practices
Shield Aralia prefers consistently moist but not waterlogged soil. Allow the top one to two inches of soil to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot. Check soil moisture by feeling the top layer; if dry, it’s time to water. Adjust watering frequency based on environmental factors like season and humidity, reducing it during colder periods when growth is minimal.
Ideal Soil Mix
A suitable soil mix for Shield Aralia promotes good drainage and aeration while retaining moisture. A well-draining, nutrient-rich potting mix is recommended, often composed of equal parts potting soil, peat, and perlite. Adding coarse sand or coconut coir further enhances drainage and moisture retention. This composition ensures roots receive both moisture and air, preventing suffocation and rot.
Temperature and Humidity Requirements
Shield Aralia prefers warm temperatures, ideally 18°C to 29°C (65°F to 85°F), and does not tolerate cold drafts or temperatures below 10°C (50°F). It also requires high humidity, around 50-60%. Dry air can lead to leaf curling, browning, and leaf drop. To increase humidity for indoor plants, place the pot on a wet pebble tray, use a cool mist humidifier, or group plants together.
Fertilizing Schedule
During the active growing season (spring and summer), Shield Aralia benefits from regular fertilization. A balanced liquid fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 NPK ratio, applied monthly or every 4-6 weeks, supports its growth and vibrant foliage. Dilute the fertilizer to half-strength to prevent root burn. Reduce or stop fertilization during colder months (fall and winter) when the plant’s growth slows.
Common Problems and Pests
Shield Aralia can experience leaf drop, often indicating stress from sudden temperature changes, drafts, or inconsistent watering. Yellowing leaves signal overwatering or poor drainage, leading to root rot. If root rot is suspected, remove the plant, clean the roots, trim mushy parts, and repot in fresh, well-draining soil.
This plant is also susceptible to common houseplant pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. These pests are often found on the undersides of leaves or new growth. Signs of infestation include sticky residue, small holes, or discolored spots on the leaves. Regular inspection and prompt treatment with insecticidal soap or neem oil manages these issues.
Propagating Shield Aralia
Propagating Shield Aralia is commonly achieved through stem cuttings. The optimal time for cuttings is during spring or early summer, aligning with the plant’s active growth cycle. Select healthy, non-flowering stems and use sharp, sterilized shears to make a clean cut just below a leaf node, as this area contains cells important for root development.
After taking the cutting, remove leaves from the lower two-thirds of the stem to minimize water loss and encourage rooting. Dipping the cut end in rooting hormone enhances root growth. Plant the prepared cutting in a moist, well-draining soil mix, such as perlite and peat moss, or root it in water. Maintaining high humidity around the cutting, possibly by covering it with a plastic bag or using a humidity dome, is important during the initial rooting phase, which takes 4 to 8 weeks.