polyscias scutellaria

Balfour aralia, Hawaiian shield plant.

Care level

Medium

Each glossy leaf looks like a perfectly sculpted shield, creating an elegant layered effect as the plant grows taller. Unlike its more common relatives, this variety can be shaped into stunning topiaries and bonsai forms, making it a living piece of art that adds architectural interest to any space.

Care & maintenance

Light

Bright indirect light

Bright light, usually located near windows but doesn't receive direct rays for more than an hour during the day.

Temperature

Wide range (59°F - 86°F)

Fertilization frequency

Moderate

Monthly during the growing period.

Humidity & watering

Moderate

Keep the soil slightly moist.

An ambiant humidity between 50 and 80% is recommended.

Soil

Choose a Tropical plant mix: A rich, moisture-retentive blend with good aeration. Mimics the natural forest floor environment of tropical regions.

If you want to create your own substrate, you can make a mixture of the following soils:

Click on the soil name for more information.

Pot

Standard size

Standard size

Prefer a pot with a classic width/depth ratio.

Features

Size & growth

Medium

Upright

Moderate growth

This plant grows at a moderate rate. It can reach 1 to 3 feet in height or spread.

It grows upwards without support.

Toxicity

Toxicity table by species
Human
Cat
Dog
polyscias scutellaria thumbnail
polyscias scutellaria thumbnail
polyscias scutellaria thumbnail
polyscias scutellaria thumbnail

Reproduction & propagation

Fruits & flowers

Flowering & not self-pollinating

The polyscias scutellaria can produce flowers and therefore fruits.
This plant is not capable of self-pollination, it will not be able to produce fruits if it is not pollinated by another individual.

Propagation methods