False aralia·Perry's Plants
Plerandra elegantissima
False aralia
◆
Species Name
Genus
Family
Adoption Date
—
Collection
Gallery
Care Guide
Care Requirements
LightBright, indirect light with a few hours of gentle morning sun; tolerates medium light but may grow leggy. Avoid harsh midday sun.
WateringWater when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry. Keep evenly moist in spring–summer; reduce in winter. Use room‑temperature water and avoid soggy soil.
SoilAiry, well‑draining mix: peat/coir-based potting soil with perlite and fine bark (roughly 2:1:1). Slightly acidic (pH 6.0–6.5).
FertilizerBalanced liquid fertilizer at 1/4–1/2 strength every 4 weeks in spring–summer or a slow‑release pellet in spring. Hold in fall–winter.
HumidityPrefers 50–70%+. Use a humidifier or pebble tray; avoid cold drafts and sudden humidity drops.
TemperatureIdeal 65–80°F (18–27°C). Do not expose below 60°F (15°C). Keep away from heaters and AC vents.
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitUpright, slender, multi‑stemmed shrub/small tree with narrow, serrated palmate leaflets.
Mature SizeIndoors 4–8 ft tall and 2–3 ft wide; outdoors up to 10–20 ft tall in ideal conditions.
Growth RateModerate; slower in low light or cool conditions.
BloomingRare indoors; outdoors may produce small greenish umbels/panicles in warm seasons.
DormancyNo true dormancy; growth slows in winter with shorter days.
Propagation
MethodsStem cuttings, Air layering, Seed (rare)
DifficultyModerate
Best SeasonSpring to early summer
Maintenance & Notes
PruningPinch or tip‑prune to encourage branching and maintain a tidy, upright form. Remove leggy or crossing stems in spring.
RepottingRepot every 2–3 years in spring, or when rootbound. Prefers slightly snug pots with excellent drainage.
Pests & DiseasesWatch for spider mites, scale, mealybugs, and thrips. Overwatering can cause root rot; low humidity or drafts cause leaf drop.
ToxicityMildly toxic if ingested (pets and humans). Sap may irritate; can cause oral irritation and GI upset.