Balfour Aralia Plant – The Ultimate Care Guide (Polyscias Scutellaria)
The Balfour Aralia plant (Polyscias scutellaria or Aralia Balfouriana) is a stunning indoor ornamental plant known for its glossy, round leaves and elegant growth habit. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced plant enthusiast, this guide covers everything you need to know about Balfour Aralia care, including light requirements, watering, propagation, and troubleshooting common problems.
1. Balfour Aralia Plant Overview
Scientific Name & Origin
- Botanical Name: Polyscias scutellaria (also called Aralia Balfouriana)
- Family: Araliaceae
- Native Region: Tropical regions of Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands
Appearance & Growth Habit
- Leaf Shape: Small, round, glossy green leaves with a slightly serrated edge
- Growth Pattern: Upright, bushy growth (can reach 3-6 feet indoors)
- Indoor vs. Outdoor Growth: Primarily grown as a houseplant, but can thrive outdoors in warm, humid climates (USDA Zones 10-11)
2. Balfour Aralia Care Guide
2.1 Light Requirements for Balfour Aralia
Best Light: Bright, indirect light (east or north-facing windows ideal)
Low Light Tolerance: Can survive in medium light but may grow slower
Avoid Direct Sun: Too much sun causes leaf scorching (brown edges)
2.2 Watering Needs
How Often to Water?
- Water when the top 1-2 inches of soil are dry
- Typically once a week in summer, less in winter
Common Mistakes:
- Overwatering → Leads to root rot (yellow leaves, mushy stems)
- Underwatering → Causes drooping or crispy leaves
2.3 Soil & Potting Mix
Ideal Soil Type:
- Well-draining potting mix (peat moss + perlite + orchid bark)
- Avoid heavy garden soil (retains too much moisture)
Repotting Tips:
- Repot every 2-3 years (when roots outgrow the pot)
- Choose a pot 1-2 inches larger with drainage holes
2.4 Temperature & Humidity Preferences
Temperature Range: 65°F–80°F (18°C–27°C)
- Avoid cold drafts (below 50°F/10°C can damage leaves)
Humidity Needs:
- Thrives in 50-60% humidity
- Increase Humidity: Use a pebble tray, humidifier, or mist leaves
2.5 Fertilizing Balfour Aralia
Best Fertilizer: Balanced liquid fertilizer (10-10-10 or 20-20-20)
How Often?
- Spring-Summer: Every 4-6 weeks
- Winter: Stop fertilizing (dormant period)
3. Common Balfour Aralia Problems & Solutions
3.1 Yellow Leaves
- Causes: Overwatering, poor drainage, nutrient deficiency
- Fix: Check soil moisture, improve drainage, fertilize
3.2 Leaf Drop
- Causes: Sudden temperature changes, low humidity, underwatering
- Fix: Maintain stable conditions, increase humidity
3.3 Pests (Spider Mites, Mealybugs)
- Signs: Webbing, sticky residue, tiny bugs
- Treatment: Wipe leaves with neem oil or insecticidal soap
4. Pruning & Propagating Balfour Aralia
Pruning for Bushier Growth
- Trim leggy stems in spring/summer
- Pinch new growth tips to encourage fullness
Propagation Methods
- Stem Cuttings in Water
- Cut a 4-6 inch stem, place in water until roots form
- Stem Cuttings in Soil
- Dip in rooting hormone, plant in moist soil
5. Balfour Aralia vs. Similar Plants
| Feature | Balfour Aralia | Ming Aralia | False Aralia |
|---|---|---|---|
| Leaf Shape | Round, glossy | Feathery, fine | Thin, serrated |
| Light Needs | Bright indirect | Medium light | Bright indirect |
| Growth Speed | Moderate | Slow | Fast |
6. Is Balfour Aralia Toxic to Pets?
- Mildly toxic to cats & dogs (can cause vomiting if ingested)
- Keep away from pets or place on high shelves
7. Benefits of Growing Balfour Aralia
Air-purifying (removes indoor toxins)
Adds tropical elegance to home/office decor
Low-maintenance once established
8. FAQs About Balfour Aralia
How fast does Balfour Aralia grow?
- Moderate growth (6-12 inches per year in ideal conditions)
Can Balfour Aralia grow outdoors?
- Only in warm, humid climates (USDA 10-11)
Why are my Balfour Aralia leaves curling?
- Usually due to low humidity or underwatering
Final Tips for a Healthy Balfour Aralia
Rotate the plant for even growth
Wipe leaves to prevent dust buildup
Avoid sudden temperature changes
By following this Balfour Aralia care guide, your plant will thrive for years!