Also known as Aralia Fabian · Balfour Aralia · Dinnerplate-Aralia
Shield Aralia (Polyscias scutellaria) is a tropical shrub prized for its glossy, shield-shaped leaves and ornamental appeal in warm climates.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright indirect
75% intensity
Prefers bright, filtered light, but can tolerate partial shade. Avoid direct sunlight which can scorch leaves.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Well-draining potting mix
50% intensity
Average to warm
50% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 18-24°C. Protect from cold drafts and temperatures below 10°C.
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed during growing season with diluted liquid fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid letting the plant sit in waterlogged soil, as this can lead to root rot.
Reduce watering frequency during the cooler, dormant months of winter, allowing the soil to dry out more between waterings.
Prune in spring to maintain desired shape and size, and to encourage bushier growth. Remove any dead, damaged, or leggy stems. Pruning can also be done to control its height and prevent it from becoming too leggy.
Use clean, sharp pruning shears.
Propagate by stem cuttings taken in spring or summer. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant in a well-draining potting mix.
Keep the soil consistently moist and place in a warm location with bright, indirect light. Roots typically form within 4-6 weeks.
Repot every 2-3 years, or when the plant becomes root-bound. Choose a pot that is one size larger than the current one. Use a well-draining potting mix.
Spring is the ideal time for repotting, coinciding with the start of the active growing season.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Shield Aralia (Polyscias scutellaria)
Where Shield Aralia (Polyscias scutellaria) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Araliaceae |
| Genus | Polyscias |
| Species | Polyscias scutellaria |
Similar in genus Polyscias
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
