Species Balfour aralia
lime-white leaves with yellow veins, olive stems and brown branches

Balfour aralia

Polyscias balfouriana

Balfour aralia (Polyscias balfouriana) is an evergreen shrub native to the tropical islands of Southeast Asia. It has lush, glossy foliage of large fern-like leaves, with colorful, variegated white, green and yellow edges. Its vibrant appearance makes it an attractive houseplant and ornamental garden choice. This species is slow-growing and requires lots of indirect sunlight or shade to thrive. It can be propagated through both seeds and cuttings, and it should be watered sparingly to prevent root rot. The Balfour aralia is an eye-catching plant that will add color and texture to any indoor or outdoor space.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Frequent

Propagation:

Seed Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

11

Sun:

filtered shade,part sun/part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,yellow

Growth Rate:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Tropical:

Yes

Indoors:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Balfour Aralia plants should be watered sparingly, typically aiming for about once per week. Depending on the environment, however, more or less water may be necessary. In warmer climates, more frequent watering (every 3-5 days) may be required, whereas in cooler climates, watering every 10-14 days may be sufficient. When watering, thoroughly drench the soil and ensure that all of the soil is evenly moist. Allow the soil to almost completely dry out before the next watering.

sunlight

The Balfour Aralia is a shade-loving plant species that prefers partial to full shade, rather than direct sunlight. It is important to note that while the plant can tolerate some direct sunlight, too much can cause the leaves to scorch. Therefore, if it does get any direct sunlight, it should be limited to less than 2 hours a day during the morning or late afternoon. Additionally, you should make sure to place it away from any direct midday sunlight as the intense heat and UV radiation can damage the foliage.

pruning

Pruning for a Balfour aralia (Polyscias balfouriana) is best done in the spring or summer months. Depending on the specific care needs of the plant, pruning should be done anywhere between once a month up to once every couple of months. If pruning too often, it can be damaging to the plant. When it comes to how much, light pruning should be done just to remove any discoloration or withered leaves that are visible. Aggressive pruning should be avoided unless the plant is wildly overgrown.

Hardiness Map