False Aralia (Schefflera elegantissima): The Lacy, Tropical Foliage Plant

False aralia, also called spider aralia, is prized for its deeply divided, lacy, dark green leaves with saw-toothed edges, giving a delicate, fern-like texture. Native to New Caledonia, Schefflera elegantissima (syn. Dizygotheca elegantissima) grows as a slender, upright shrub or small tree, adding elegance to interiors and shaded gardens.

Care Requirements

Bright, indirect light; avoid direct sun. Keep soil evenly moist, high humidity. It drops leaves if too dry or cold. Fertilize monthly in growing season. Prune to encourage branching. In zones 10-11, it's an outdoor specimen; elsewhere, a houseplant.

Display Tips

Its fine texture contrasts beautifully with large-leaved plants. Use in groups for a feathery screen. The cultivar 'Galaxy' has wider leaflets. It's an air purifier but toxic to pets.

Taxonomic Information