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How to Care for False Aralia
Plerandra elegantissima (formerly called Schefflera elegantissima and Dizygotheca elegantissima) also known as false aralia is a species of flowering plant in the family Araliaceae, native to New Caledonia. Growing to 8 to 15 m tall by 2 m broad, it is an evergreen shrub or tree. Its leaves are thin, coppery red to dark green with toothed edges. This plant has gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.


Water
Every 1-2 weeks


Sunlight
Partial sun




Advanced Care Guide

Transplanting
To transplant false aralia, it's best to choose a time between mid-spring and early summer, as these warm seasons promote successful growth. Choose a location with good drainage, bright indirect light, and ample space. For added success, prepare the soil with plenty of organic matter to ensure a healthy transplant.


More About How-Tos
Explore 5 of plant how-tos on Water, Lighting, Temperature, Transplant, Overwinter, etc.

Water
Every 1-2 weeks

Lighting
Partial sun
False aralia thrives best in areas where the sun's rays filter through, though it can hamdle areas with ample or scarce sunlight. In its natural habitat, the canopy sheltered it from harsh sunrays. Excessive sunlight may lead to leaf burn, while too little might result in leggy growth.

Temperature
5 43 ℃
In its native environment, false aralia prefers temperatures ranging from 20 to 38 ℃ (68 to 100 ℉). As a temperate woody plant, it requires a moderate temperature range but can adjust to seasonal fluctuations when necessary.

Transplant
6-8 inches
To transplant false aralia, it's best to choose a time between mid-spring and early summer, as these warm seasons promote successful growth. Choose a location with good drainage, bright indirect light, and ample space. For added success, prepare the soil with plenty of organic matter to ensure a healthy transplant.

Overwinter
20 ℃
Native to the humid tropics of New Caledonia, false aralia has evolved to survive in consistently warm and humid conditions. It lacks inherent cold-hardiness, making winter care crucial. Gardeners should keep false aralia indoors at temperatures of at least 60°F, ensuring bright, indirect sunlight and high humidity. Be vigilant about any possible insect infestation during this period, as false aralia tends to attract pests during indoor overwintering.



Seasonal Care Tips

Spring

Summer

Fall

Winter
Tropical plants like your plant require some care in the spring.

1
Early spring is the ideal time to remove any overgrowth and dead vines or branches.

2
A monthly application of diluted all-purpose liquid fertilizer will encourage healthy growth and blooming. Make sure to apply the fertilizer before buds start appearing.

3
Water whenever the top layer of soil is beginning to dry out.

4
Move any container plants to a sunny location to strengthen growth.

5
Carefully prune older, new growth for propagation. Coating the cutting in rooting hormone will help establish the new plant.
To encourage flowering or fruiting, the plant requires some care.

1
Ensure the plant is receiving plenty of sunlight.

2
Keep an eye out for diseases and pests in the summer.

3
Watering frequency may also need increasing, depending on the amount of weekly rainfall.

4
Continue fertilizing once or twice a month to support flowering or fruiting.

5
Container plants receiving more than six or so hours of sunlight a day may require relocating to a partially shady location.

6
New plants can be propagated from root or stem shoots. Carefully remove the cutting, coat in a rotting hormone powder, and plant in a container.
While your plant is growing in the fall, continue the monthly fertilization and make sure the plant receives the water and misting it needs to thrive.

1
Keep the soil moist, watering whenever the soil becomes dry, and fertilize the plant monthly with a diluted, liquid, all-purpose fertilizer.

2
Make sure your plant continues to take in bright sunlight through this season, which will help promote growth throughout the season.

3
To propagate the plant, you can take cuttings at this time and repot them.

4
Continue to watch out for pests and diseases, such as scales and mealybugs.
Continue to care for your plant during winter, even though it won’t need as much attention as during the months of active growth.

1
Keep this plant indoors in freezing winter climates to best protect it and allow it to regrow during the spring.

2
During the winter, your plant isn't greedy for water, but does require bright light. You can reduce watering to a minimum during this time.

3
Keep the plant in bright sunlight even during the winter. Avoid feeding the plant during this restful season. Other than giving it some cold protection and sunlight, you can almost leave the plant to itself.

Common Pests & Diseases
Common issues for False aralia based on 10 million real cases

More About False Aralia

Plant Type
Shrub

Lifespan
Perennial

Spread
1.2 to 1.8 m

Leaf Color
Green
Yellow
Gold

Flower Size
2.5 cm

Plant Height
8 to 15 m

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About
Advanced Care
More About How-Tos
Seasonal Tips
Pests & Diseases
More Info


How to Care for False Aralia
Plerandra elegantissima (formerly called Schefflera elegantissima and Dizygotheca elegantissima) also known as false aralia is a species of flowering plant in the family Araliaceae, native to New Caledonia. Growing to 8 to 15 m tall by 2 m broad, it is an evergreen shrub or tree. Its leaves are thin, coppery red to dark green with toothed edges. This plant has gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.


Every 1-2 weeks
Water


Partial sun
Sunlight


Advanced Care Guide

Transplanting

To transplant false aralia, it's best to choose a time between mid-spring and early summer, as these warm seasons promote successful growth. Choose a location with good drainage, bright indirect light, and ample space. For added success, prepare the soil with plenty of organic matter to ensure a healthy transplant.

Seasonal Care Tips

Spring

Summer

Fall

Winter
Tropical plants like your plant require some care in the spring.

1
Early spring is the ideal time to remove any overgrowth and dead vines or branches.

2
A monthly application of diluted all-purpose liquid fertilizer will encourage healthy growth and blooming. Make sure to apply the fertilizer before buds start appearing.

3
Water whenever the top layer of soil is beginning to dry out.

4
Move any container plants to a sunny location to strengthen growth.

5
Carefully prune older, new growth for propagation. Coating the cutting in rooting hormone will help establish the new plant.
To encourage flowering or fruiting, the plant requires some care.

1
Ensure the plant is receiving plenty of sunlight.

2
Keep an eye out for diseases and pests in the summer.

3
Watering frequency may also need increasing, depending on the amount of weekly rainfall.

4
Continue fertilizing once or twice a month to support flowering or fruiting.

5
Container plants receiving more than six or so hours of sunlight a day may require relocating to a partially shady location.

6
New plants can be propagated from root or stem shoots. Carefully remove the cutting, coat in a rotting hormone powder, and plant in a container.
While your plant is growing in the fall, continue the monthly fertilization and make sure the plant receives the water and misting it needs to thrive.

1
Keep the soil moist, watering whenever the soil becomes dry, and fertilize the plant monthly with a diluted, liquid, all-purpose fertilizer.

2
Make sure your plant continues to take in bright sunlight through this season, which will help promote growth throughout the season.

3
To propagate the plant, you can take cuttings at this time and repot them.

4
Continue to watch out for pests and diseases, such as scales and mealybugs.
Continue to care for your plant during winter, even though it won’t need as much attention as during the months of active growth.

1
Keep this plant indoors in freezing winter climates to best protect it and allow it to regrow during the spring.

2
During the winter, your plant isn't greedy for water, but does require bright light. You can reduce watering to a minimum during this time.

3
Keep the plant in bright sunlight even during the winter. Avoid feeding the plant during this restful season. Other than giving it some cold protection and sunlight, you can almost leave the plant to itself.

Common Pests & Diseases
Common issues for False aralia based on 10 million real cases

More About False Aralia

Plant Type
Shrub

Lifespan
Perennial

Spread
1.2 to 1.8 m

Leaf Color
Green
Yellow
Gold

Flower Size
2.5 cm

Plant Height
8 to 15 m

Find your perfect green friends.
Plan your green oasis based on your criteria: plant type, pet safety, skill level, sites, and more.


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unlimited guides at your fingertips...
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Water

How Often Should I Water False Aralia?

Every 1-2 weeks
Watering Frequency

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Important Symptoms
Overwatering
False aralia is more susceptible to developing disease symptoms when overwatered because it prefers a soil environment with moderate humidity. Symptoms of overwatering include yellowing leaves, root rot, leaf drop...
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(Symptom details and solutions)
Yellowing leaves

When plants receive too much water, the roots become oxygen deprived and the bottom leaves of the plant gradually turn yellow.
Root rot

Excess water in the soil can lead to the growth of harmful fungi and bacteria, causing the roots to rot and eventually kill the plant.
Leaf drop

When plants are overwatered, they may shed their leaves as a response to stress, even if the leaves appear green and healthy.
Mold and mildew

Overwatered plants create a damp environment that can encourage the growth of mold and mildew on soil.
Increased susceptibility diseases

Overwatering plants may become more susceptible and diseases as their overall health declines, weakening their natural defenses.
Solutions
1. Adjust watering frequency based on seasons and soil dryness. Wait for soil to dry before watering.2. Increase soil aeration by loosening surface and gently stirring with a wooden stick or chopstick.3. Optimize environment with good ventilation and warmth to enhance water evaporation and prevent overwatering.
Underwatering
False aralia is more susceptible to plant health issues when lacking watering, as it can only tolerate short periods of drought. Symptoms of dehydration include wilting, yellowing leaves, leaf drop...
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(Symptom details and solutions)
Wilting

Due to the dry soil and insufficient water absorption by the roots, the leaves of the plant will appear limp, droopy, and lose vitality.
Root damage

Prolonged underwatering can cause root damage, making it difficult for the plant to absorb water even when it is available.
Dry stems

Due to insufficient water, plant stems may become dry or brittle, making the branches easy to break.
Dying plant

If underwatering continues for an extended period, the plant may ultimately die as a result of severe water stress and an inability to carry out essential functions.
Solutions
1. Thoroughly saturate soil with slow ring watering to ensure uniform and sufficient moisture for plants. 2. Increase air humidity with water trays or misting to slow leaf water evaporation. 3. Watering according to the recommended frequency.Adjust watering frequency based on seasons and soil dryness.

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Lighting


Indoor

Indoor

Outdoor



Requirements

Partial sun
Ideal
About 3-6 hours sunlight

Full sun, Full shade
Tolerance
Above 6 hours sunlight

Essentials
False aralia thrives best in areas where the sun's rays filter through, though it can hamdle areas with ample or scarce sunlight. In its natural habitat, the canopy sheltered it from harsh sunrays. Excessive sunlight may lead to leaf burn, while too little might result in leggy growth.








Preferred
Tolerable
Unsuitable
Artificial lighting
Indoor plants require adequate lighting for optimal growth. When natural sunlight is insufficient, particularly in winter or in less sunny spaces, artificial lights offer a vital solution, promoting faster, healthier growth.
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Indoor plants require adequate lighting for optimal growth. When natural sunlight is insufficient, particularly in winter or in less sunny spaces, artificial lights offer a vital solution, promoting faster, healthier growth.
1. Choose the right type of artificial light: LED lights are a popular choice for indoor plant lighting because they can be customized to provide the specific wavelengths of light that your plants need.
Full sun plants need 30-50W/sq ft of artificial light, partial sun plants need 20-30W/sq ft, and full shade plants need 10-20W/sq ft.
2. Determine the appropriate distance: Place the light source 12-36 inches above the plant to mimic natural sunlight.
3. Determine the duration: Mimic the length of natural daylight hours for your plant species. most plants need 8-12 hours of light per day.
1. Choose the right type of artificial light: LED lights are a popular choice for indoor plant lighting because they can be customized to provide the specific wavelengths of light that your plants need.
Full sun plants need 30-50W/sq ft of artificial light, partial sun plants need 20-30W/sq ft, and full shade plants need 10-20W/sq ft.
2. Determine the appropriate distance: Place the light source 12-36 inches above the plant to mimic natural sunlight.
3. Determine the duration: Mimic the length of natural daylight hours for your plant species. most plants need 8-12 hours of light per day.
Important Symptoms
Insufficient light
False aralia is a popular indoor plant that prefers partial sunlight but can handle full sunlight in cooler weather. However, when placed in corners of rooms for extended periods, it may develop symptoms of light deficiency due to insufficient light exposure.
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(Symptom details and solutions)
Faster leaf drop

When plants are exposed to low light conditions, they tend to shed older leaves early to conserve resources. Within a limited time, these resources can be utilized to grow new leaves until the plant's energy reserves are depleted.
Leggy or sparse growth

The spaces between leaves or stems of your false aralia may become longer, resulting in a thin and stretched-out appearance. This can make the plant look sparse and weak, and it may easily break or lean due to its own weight.
Lighter-colored new leaves

Insufficient sunlight can cause leaves to develop irregular color patterns or appear pale. This indicates a lack of chlorophyll and essential nutrients.
Slower or no new growth

False aralia enters a survival mode when light conditions are poor, which leads to a halt in leaf production. As a result, the plant's growth becomes delayed or stops altogether.
Small leaves

New leaves may grow smaller in size compared to the previous ones once they have matured.
Solutions
1. To optimize plant growth, shift them to increasingly sunnier spots each week until they receive 3-6 hours of direct sunlight daily, enabling gradual adaptation to changing light conditions.2. To provide additional light for your plant, consider using artificial light if it's large or not easily movable. Keep a desk or ceiling lamp on for at least 8 hours daily, or invest in professional plant grow lights for ample light.
Excessive light
False aralia thrives with partial sun exposure and can tolerate full sun in cooler weather. However, they are more susceptible to sunburn, as they cannot withstand intense sunlight in high-temperature environments.
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(Symptom details and solutions)
Chlorosis

Chlorosis is a condition where the plant's leaves lose their green color and turn yellow. This is due to the breakdown of chlorophyll from excessive sunlight, which negatively affects the plant's ability to photosynthesize.
Sunscald

Sunscald occurs when the plant's leaves or stems are damaged by intense sunlight exposure. It appears as pale, bleached, or necrotic areas on the plant tissue and can reduce the plant's overall health.
Leaf Curling

Leaf curling is a symptom where leaves curl or twist under extreme sunlight conditions. This is a defense mechanism used by the plant to reduce its surface area exposed to sunlight, minimizing water loss and damage.
Wilting

Wilting occurs when a plant loses turgor pressure and its leaves and stems begin to droop. Overexposure to sunlight can cause wilting by increasing the plant's water loss through transpiration, making it difficult for the plant to maintain adequate hydration.
Leaf Scorching

Leaf scorching is a symptom characterized by the appearance of brown, dry, and crispy edges or patches on leaves due to excessive sunlight. This can lead to a reduction in photosynthetic capacity and overall plant health.
Solutions
1. Move your plant to the optimal position where it can receive abundant sunlight but also have some shade. An east-facing window is an ideal choice as the morning sunlight is gentler. This way, your plant can enjoy ample sunlight while reducing the risk of sunburn.2. It is recommended to trim off any completely dehydrated or withered parts of the plant.

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Temperature


Indoor

Indoor

Outdoor



Requirements

Ideal
Tolerable
Unsuitable

Essentials
In its native environment, false aralia prefers temperatures ranging from 20 to 38 ℃ (68 to 100 ℉). As a temperate woody plant, it requires a moderate temperature range but can adjust to seasonal fluctuations when necessary.

Regional wintering strategies
False aralia is extremely heat-loving, and any cold temperatures can cause harm to it. In the autumn, it is recommended to bring outdoor-grown False aralia indoors and place it near a bright window, but it should be kept at a certain distance from heaters. Maintaining temperatures above {Suitable_growth_temperature_min} during winter is beneficial for plant growth. Any temperatures approaching {Tolerable_growing_temperature_min} are detrimental to the plant.
Important Symptoms
Low Temperature
False aralia prefers warm temperatures and is not tolerant of low temperatures. It thrives best when the temperature is above {Suitable_growth_temperature_min}. During winter, it should be kept above {Tolerable_growing_temperature_min}. When the temperature falls below {Limit_growth_temperature}, the leaves may lighten in color. After frost damage, the color gradually turns brown or black, and symptoms such as wilting and drooping may occur.
Solutions
Trim off the frost-damaged parts. Immediately move indoors to a warm environment for cold protection. Choose a spot near a south-facing window to place the plant, ensuring ample sunlight. Additionally, avoid placing the plant near heaters or air conditioning vents to prevent excessive dryness in the air.
High Temperature
During summer, False aralia should be kept below {Suitable_growth_temperature_max}. When the temperature exceeds {Tolerable_growing_temperature_max}, the color of the leaves becomes lighter, and the plant becomes more susceptible to sunburn.
Solutions
Trim away the sunburned and dried-up parts. Move the plant to a location that provides shade from the midday and afternoon sun. Water the plant in the morning and evening to keep the soil moist.

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Transplant

How to Successfully Transplant False Aralia?
To transplant false aralia, it's best to choose a time between mid-spring and early summer, as these warm seasons promote successful growth. Choose a location with good drainage, bright indirect light, and ample space. For added success, prepare the soil with plenty of organic matter to ensure a healthy transplant.
What Preparations are Needed Before Transplanting False Aralia?
What is the Ideal Time for Transplanting False Aralia?

The optimum period for moving false aralia is from the heart of spring to the dawn of summer. This window allows false aralia to adjust to the new setting before high summer temperatures arrive. Shifting during this time ensures healthy growth, better adaptability, and promotes a robust root system. So, let's take advantage of the season's mild conditions to give false aralia a fresh start!
How Much Space Should You Leave Between False Aralia Plants?

A great start for transplanting your false aralia would be spacing them about 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) apart. This ensures they have enough room to grow and spread their beautiful foliage, while looking fuller in your garden.
What is the Best Soil Mix for False Aralia Transplanting?

For successful growth of your false aralia, prepare a well-draining, loamy soil. Mix in a slow-release granular fertilizer as the base, following the package instructions. This will provide essential nutrients to your plants and promote healthy growth.
Where Should You Relocate Your False Aralia?

For your false aralia plants, choose a location where they'll receive bright, indirect sunlight most of the day. Avoid direct sun, as it may scorch their delicate leaves. A lightly shaded area in your garden would be perfect for them.
What Equipments Should You Prepare Before Transplantation False Aralia?
Gardening Gloves

You'll need these to safeguard your hands while digging and handling the plant and soil.
Shovel or Spade

This will be needed for digging the hole for the plant and also for extracting it from its original location.
Gardening Trowel

This smaller tool will help with finer digging work and plant handling.
Watering Can

A necessity for watering your false aralia after transplantation is complete.
Bucket

Needed for temporarily housing the plant during transportation or preparing the soil.
Wheelbarrow

For longer distance transplantation, a wheelbarrow can help with transporting the plant and the soil.
Organic Compost

While transplanting the false aralia, introducing organic compost will help enhance soil fertility.
How Do You Remove False Aralia from the Soil?
Step1 Prepare the New Location
Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball and equally deep. Loosen the soil in and around the hole and add organic compost for enhanced fertility.
Step2 Transplant Process
Carefully place the false aralia in the center of the hole. The plant's crown (where the stem and root meet) should be at ground level. Start backfilling the hole with soil, firmly but gently patting it around the roots to eliminate air pockets.
Step3 Watering
Immediately after your false aralia plant is in place, water it generously to settle the soil and start the establishment process.
Step4 Checks
Keep checking the plant for a few days for any signs of wilt or root exposure. If necessary, add more soil and water.
Step-by-Step Guide for Transplanting False Aralia
Step1 Prepare the New Location

Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball and equally deep. Loosen the soil in and around the hole and add organic compost for enhanced fertility.
Step2 Transplant Process

Carefully place the false aralia in the center of the hole. The plant's crown (where the stem and root meet) should be at ground level. Start backfilling the hole with soil, firmly but gently patting it around the roots to eliminate air pockets.
Step3 Watering

Immediately after your false aralia plant is in place, water it generously to settle the soil and start the establishment process.
Step4 Checks

Keep checking the plant for a few days for any signs of wilt or root exposure. If necessary, add more soil and water.
How Do You Care For False Aralia After Transplanting?
Watering regimen

Post transplantation, for the initial few weeks, keep the soil moist but avoid over-watering or water-logging the false aralia.
Checking for Root Growth

After about 2 weeks, check the false aralia plant for any signs of new root growth, which is a positive sign of successful transplantation.
Protection

The false aralia can be sensitive post transplantation. Protect from strong winds, intense mid-day sunlight and extreme temperatures for the first few weeks.
Dealing with Pests and Diseases

Keep an eye out for pests and diseases that might take advantage of the false aralia's if any transplant-induced stress.
Troubleshooting Common Issues with False Aralia Transplantation.
What's the best time of year to transplant my false aralia?

The most fruitful time to transplant false aralia is from mid-spring to early summer. The plant thrives best with warm soil in buoyant weather.
How much space should be left between the false aralia plants when following transplant?

It's ideal to maintain around 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) of space between each false aralia plant. This allows your plants ample room to spread their roots and grow healthily.
Do I need to modify soil before transplanting false aralia?

Absolutely. Enrich the soil with well-decomposed compost before transplantation. It can offer the false aralia the nutrients it needs for optimal growth.
How deeply should the false aralia being transplanted be placed into the soil?

Place the false aralia evenly with the soil level of the pot it arrived in. Planting too deep may increase the risk of root rot, and planting too shallow could dry out the roots.
Can I directly transplant my false aralia plant under full sunlight?

False aralia prefers indirect light. So, after transplanting, place it in bright but filtered light for at least few weeks before gradually introducing it to more light.
How much water does the false aralia need post-transplant?

Immediately after transplantation, water your false aralia thoroughly but avoid water-logging. Thereafter, maintain evenly moist soil; neither too dry nor too wet.
How frequently should I fertilize my freshly transplanted false aralia?

Avoid fertilizing right after transplanting as it may stress the plant. Start applying fertilizer after a month and then continue it every 4 to 6 weeks during the growing season.
Why are the leaves of my transplanted false aralia turning yellow?

Yellow leaves may suggest overwatering or poor drainage. Check your watering habits and ensure the plant has good drainage. Make adjustments if necessary.
Do I need to prune my false aralia after transplantation?

It's beneficial to prune false aralia post-transplanting to remove any damaged or diseased leaves and promote bushier growth. But avoid heavy pruning as it may stress the plant.
Is it normal for false aralia to wilt after transplanting?

Yes, a little wilting post-transplant is normal, known as transplant shock. Maintain proper watering and lighting conditions and your false aralia should recover in a few days.

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