Contents
Description
Plerandra Elegantissima, commonly known as False Aralia, is a tropical evergreen plant native to the South Pacific islands. It is a popular ornamental plant due to its attractive foliage and unique appearance. The plant can grow up to 6 feet tall and has a spread of 3 feet. It is commonly grown indoors as a houseplant and requires minimal care.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Araliaceae |
| Genus | Plerandra |
Appearance
Plerandra Elegantissima has dark green, shiny, and deeply divided leaves that resemble fern fronds. The leaves can grow up to 1 foot long and 6 inches wide. The plant produces small white flowers that bloom in clusters. The flowers are followed by small black berries that are not edible. The plant’s bark is smooth and grayish-brown in color.
Care Guide
Plerandra Elegantissima is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. It prefers bright, indirect light and should be kept away from direct sunlight. The plant should be watered regularly, but not overwatered, as it is susceptible to root rot. It prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant can be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Plerandra Elegantissima is hardy in USDA zones 10-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
Plerandra Elegantissima is susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. It can also be affected by leaf spot and root rot if overwatered. Pest infestations can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Fungal diseases can be prevented by watering the plant at the base and not getting the leaves wet.
Habitat
Plerandra Elegantissima is native to the South Pacific islands, including Fiji, Samoa, and Tonga. It grows in tropical rainforests and can be found growing under the canopy of larger trees. The plant prefers warm temperatures and high humidity.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Plerandra Elegantissima toxic to pets?
A: Yes, the plant is toxic to pets if ingested.
Q: Can I prune my Plerandra Elegantissima?
A: Yes, the plant can be pruned to maintain its shape and size.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Plerandra Elegantissima?
A: The plant can be fertilized once a month during the growing season.
Q: Can Plerandra Elegantissima tolerate full sun?
A: No, the plant prefers bright, indirect light and should be kept away from direct sunlight.
Related Plants
- Plerandra arborea
- Plerandra elegantissima ‘Variegata’
- Plerandra elegantissima ‘Green Ripple’
References
- “Plerandra elegantissima.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=292879. Accessed 30 Sept. 2021.
- “False Aralia – Plerandra elegantissima.” Indoor Gardening, www.indoor-gardener.com/false-aralia-plerandra-elegantissima/. Accessed 30 Sept. 2021.
- “Plerandra elegantissima.” Plant Care Today, www.plantcaretoday.com/plearandra-elegrantissima. Accessed 30 Sept. 2021.
