Schefflera elegantissima

False Aralia

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Taxonomy

Common Names

False AraliaSpider AraliaDizygotheca

Context

nativeRegion

New Caledonia

usdaZones

10–12 (grown as houseplant elsewhere)

companionPlants

Ficus elastica, Monstera deliciosa, Philodendron species

culturalUses

Primarily ornamental as a decorative indoor or conservatory plant; valued for unique foliage.

Care

LightBright, indirect light; tolerates some shade but leaves may lose color intensity.

WateringWater when the top 2-3 cm of soil is dry; prefers evenly moist but not waterlogged soil.

SoilWell-draining, peat-based potting mix or light loam with good aeration.

FertilizerMonthly feeding during spring and summer with balanced liquid fertilizer; reduce in autumn/winter.

HumidityPrefers moderate to high humidity; mist foliage or use a humidity tray if air is dry.

TemperatureThrives at 16-24°C (60-75°F); protect from drafts and cold below 10°C (50°F).

HabitEvergreen shrub or small tree with upright, slender stems and distinctive, deeply serrated leaves.

Mature Size1.5–3 m (5–10 ft) indoors; can grow taller outdoors in suitable climates.

Growth RateModerate growth rate under optimal conditions.

BloomingRarely flowers indoors; outdoors may produce small greenish flowers followed by black berries.

DormancyNo true dormancy but growth slows in cooler months.

MethodsStem cuttings, Air layering, Seed (less common)

DifficultyModerate; rooting hormones may improve success for cuttings.

Best SeasonSpring to early summer

PruningPrune to control height and encourage bushiness; remove leggy or damaged stems.

RepottingRepot every 2-3 years or when rootbound; use a slightly larger pot each time.

Pests & DiseasesSusceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, scale; watch for leaf drop from overwatering or cold.

ToxicityMildly toxic if ingested by pets or humans (can cause gastrointestinal upset).

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