Aralia Variegated with Pot

Why to Buy It?

Aralia Variegated (Polyscias scutellaria 'Variegata') is an excellent choice for both novice and experienced plant enthusiasts. Here are some reasons why you should consider adding this plant to your collection:

1. Aesthetic Appeal: With its striking variegated leaves in shades of green and creamy white, Aralia Variegated is a visual delight that adds a touch of elegance and brightness to any indoor space.
2. Compact Growth: Ideal for small spaces, it grows in a bushy, upright manner, making it perfect for apartments, offices, and areas with limited space.
3. Air Purification: Like many houseplants, Aralia Variegated helps purify the air, improving indoor air quality by removing toxins and releasing oxygen.
4. Versatility: It can be grown as a potted plant, bonsai, or even an outdoor shrub in suitable climates, offering flexibility in how you choose to display it.

Features of the Plant

1. Variegated Leaves: The most distinguishing feature of the Aralia Variegated is its beautiful leaves, which are a mix of green with white or creamy edges. The leaves are broad and slightly serrated, giving the plant a unique texture.
2. Growth Habit: It typically grows to a height of 3-5 feet indoors but can reach up to 8 feet in optimal outdoor conditions. The plant has a bushy growth habit with a dense foliage canopy.
3. Stem Structure: The stems are woody and can become quite thick over time, giving the plant a tree-like appearance as it matures.
4. Flowers and Fruits: While it's rare for Aralia Variegated to flower indoors, when grown outdoors, it may produce small, inconspicuous flowers followed by tiny fruits.

How to Care for It

1. Light Requirements: Aralia Variegated prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light conditions. However, too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, and too little light can reduce the variegation.
2. Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry. Reduce watering in winter when the plant's growth slows down.
3. Humidity: This plant thrives in high humidity environments. If the air in your home is dry, consider using a humidifier or placing the plant on a tray with pebbles and water to increase humidity.
4. Temperature: Maintain a temperature range between 65-75°F (18-24°C). Protect the plant from drafts, sudden temperature changes, and cold temperatures below 60°F (15°C).
5. Soil and Fertilization: Use a well-draining potting mix rich in organic matter. Feed the plant with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer).
6. Pruning and Repotting: Prune to maintain the desired shape and remove any dead or yellowing leaves. Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant outgrows its pot, using fresh potting soil.
7. Pest Control: Keep an eye out for common pests like spider mites, aphids, and scale. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Regularly wipe the leaves with a damp cloth to keep them dust-free and healthy.

Aralia Variegated is a low-maintenance plant that rewards you with its beauty and air-purifying qualities, making it a worthy addition to any plant collection.