Question
Dear Will,

I started a garden with a group of hearing-impaired people last summer here in NYC.  The other day we got a mysterious donation of a familiar-looking plant, but we don't know what it is so we don't know whether to put it into the garden or keep it in the pot and keep it indoors.  Please help.  I'll attach a photo at your email address.

Thank you - Judy Canepa  

Answer
Hi Judy,

Thanks for the photos.

Your plant is a False Aralia. Its botanical name is Schefflera elegantissima, although in some places it is still listed as Dizygotheca elegantissima.

It is a tropical plant and should remain potted and indoors. Disturb the roots as little as possible. Provide lots of bright indirect light, although a few hours of direct sun is fine.

Water it thoroughly as soon as the top two inches of soil are dry. Fertilize it sparingly at half-strength.

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.

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Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

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