The Polyscias scutellaria, often known as the Balfour Aralia or Dinner Plate Aralia, is a popular ornamental species cherished for its distinctive foliage. Originating in the tropical regions of the Pacific Islands and Southeast Asia, this plant brings a lush, tree-like structure to indoor spaces. Due to its preference for a consistently warm and humid environment, the Balfour Aralia requires deliberate attention to maintain its health. Successful cultivation relies on understanding its specific needs related to light exposure, moisture levels, and temperature stability.
Identifying the Balfour Aralia
The Balfour Aralia is botanically classified as Polyscias scutellaria and is a member of the Araliaceae family. Common names like Shield Aralia or Dinner Plate Aralia are derived from the unique shape of its leaves. These leaflets are broadly elliptic to orbicular, giving them a distinctively rounded, almost scalloped edge that resembles a small plate.
The foliage typically grows in clusters of three leaflets, transitioning from simple leaves on younger plants to the compound, trifoliate form as the plant matures. Depending on the cultivar, the leaves may be solid dark green or feature creamy white or pale yellow variegation along the margins. This species exhibits an upright, branching growth habit, often developing a woody trunk that gives it the appearance of a miniature tree.
Daily Cultivation Needs
The Balfour Aralia thrives best when placed in an area that receives bright, indirect light for several hours each day. While it can tolerate slightly lower light conditions, this tropical species will lose its vibrant coloring and become leggy without sufficient illumination. Direct, intense sunlight should be avoided because the harsh rays can easily scorch the foliage, leaving permanent brown spots on the leaves.
Maintaining a consistently moist but well-drained soil environment is important, as this plant is highly susceptible to root issues if overwatered. Water the plant thoroughly when the top inch of the potting mix feels dry to the touch, ensuring any excess water drains completely from the container. The ideal potting mix should be rich in organic matter and incorporate amendments like perlite or coarse sand to promote rapid drainage and aeration.
It prefers warm, stable temperatures, ideally between 65°F and 80°F (18°C–27°C). Exposure to temperatures below 60°F (15°C) or sudden cold drafts can cause leaf drop and stress the plant. High humidity is also beneficial, as dry air can cause the leaf tips to turn brown. This can be addressed by placing the pot on a pebble tray filled with water or by running a small room humidifier nearby.
Addressing Common Maintenance Issues
Pest management is necessary, as the Balfour Aralia is prone to infestations of spider mites, scale insects, and mealybugs. Regular visual inspection of the leaves, especially the undersides and along the stems, allows for early detection. Prompt treatment with a horticultural oil, such as neem oil, or an insecticidal soap can effectively eliminate most common houseplant pests.
Pruning is necessary to maintain the plant’s desired shape and size, especially since it naturally grows into an upright shrub. The best time for shaping or size reduction is during the active growing season in the spring or early summer. Cuts should be made just above a leaf node or a side branch to encourage new, bushier growth. Avoid removing more than 30% of the foliage at any one time to prevent stressing the specimen.
Repotting should be infrequent, as the Aralia prefers to be slightly root-bound, which helps mitigate the risk of root rot. Only move the plant to a container one size larger when the roots are tightly circling the current pot. Note that the Balfour Aralia contains saponins, making it mildly toxic if ingested and capable of causing oral irritation and gastrointestinal upset.
How to Propagate New Plants
Stem cuttings are the most reliable method for multiplying the Balfour Aralia. Select a healthy, non-flowering stem that is approximately four to six inches long and possesses at least two leaf nodes. Using a clean, sharp blade, cut the stem just below a node, then remove the lower leaves to expose the nodes that will be submerged in the rooting medium.
The prepared cutting can be rooted in either water or a well-draining soil mix. If using soil, a blend of perlite and standard potting mix provides the necessary aeration and moisture retention. The cutting should be placed in a warm location with bright, indirect light and kept under increased humidity, often achieved with a clear plastic bag. Roots typically begin to form within four to eight weeks, after which the new plant can be transitioned to its permanent pot and regular care routine.