Polyscias Scutellaria

Description

Polyscias Scutellaria is a species of flowering plant in the Araliaceae family. It is native to Southeast Asia and can grow up to 50 feet tall in its natural habitat. This plant is commonly known as the Shield Aralia due to the shape of its leaves. It has an upright growth habit and can be grown as a tree or a shrub.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Polyscias Scutellaria has large, glossy leaves that are oval in shape with a pointed tip. The leaves are dark green in color and can grow up to 12 inches long. The plant produces small, white flowers in clusters that bloom in the spring and summer. The fruit of the plant is a small, black berry that contains a single seed.

Care Guide

Polyscias Scutellaria requires moderate care and attention to thrive. Here are some tips to help you care for your Shield Aralia:Water: Water the plant once a week during the growing season and reduce watering in the winter. Do not overwater as this can cause root rot.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.Soil: Plant in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.Sunlight: Place the plant in bright, indirect sunlight. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves.Hardiness Zones: Polyscias Scutellaria is hardy in USDA zones 10-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Polyscias Scutellaria is susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while underwatering can cause the leaves to wilt and drop.

Habitat

Polyscias Scutellaria is native to Southeast Asia, where it grows in tropical rainforests. It prefers a warm, humid environment and can be grown as an indoor plant in cooler climates.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Polyscias Scutellaria be grown outdoors in cooler climates?
A: No, it is not recommended to grow Shield Aralia outdoors in cooler climates as it is not frost-tolerant.Q: How often should I fertilize Polyscias Scutellaria?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season.Q: What is the ideal temperature range for Shield Aralia?
A: Polyscias Scutellaria prefers temperatures between 65-80°F (18-27°C).Q: How often should I water Polyscias Scutellaria?
A: Water once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering in the winter.

Related Plants

Here are some related plants to Polyscias Scutellaria:

• Polyscias balfouriana
• Polyscias fruticosa
• Polyscias guilfoylei
• Polyscias nodosa

References

• “Polyscias Scutellaria.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b994.
• “Polyscias Scutellaria.” Plant Care Today, 10 Mar. 2021, plantcaretoday.com/polyscias-scutellaria.
• “Polyscias Scutellaria.” World of Flowering Plants, 14 Mar. 2019, worldoffloweringplants.com/polyscias-scutellaria-shield-aralia/.