Polyscias guilfoylei

Geranium Aralia

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Taxonomy

Common Names

Geranium AraliaWild CoffeePanax

Context

nativeRegion

New Guinea and surrounding Pacific Islands.

usdaZones

10–12 (grown mainly indoors in temperate climates).

companionPlants

Ficus elastica, Schefflera arboricola, Dracaena marginata

culturalUses

Ornamental foliage plant, popular in indoor gardens and tropical landscaping.

Care

LightBright, indirect light is ideal; tolerates some shade but avoid direct sun.

WateringWater regularly, allowing the top inch of soil to dry between watering; do not let soil become soggy.

SoilWell-draining, fertile potting mix with good organic matter.

FertilizerFeed monthly during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer.

HumidityPrefers moderate to high humidity; mist leaves occasionally, especially in dry indoor settings.

TemperatureThrives at 18–27°C (65–80°F); avoid cold drafts and temperatures below 13°C (55°F).

HabitEvergreen shrub, often grown as an indoor ornamental for its variegated foliage.

Mature Size1.5–3 m (5–10 ft) tall, often pruned smaller as a houseplant.

Growth RateModerate growth rate.

BloomingRarely flowers indoors; inflorescences are small, greenish white if present.

DormancyNo true dormancy but may slow growth in cooler months.

MethodsStem cuttings, Air layering

DifficultyModerate

Best SeasonSpring to early summer

PruningPrune to shape and encourage bushiness; remove leggy or damaged branches regularly.

RepottingRepot every 2–3 years, or when rootbound.

Pests & DiseasesWatch for spider mites, scale, and mealybugs; treat promptly. Root rot possible if overwatered.

ToxicityMildly toxic if ingested; may cause gastrointestinal upset in pets and humans.

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