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Aralia Pennocki
More accurately Polyscias balfouriana 'Pennockii' or Polyscias scutellaria 'Pennockii', is a popular, colorful tropical houseplant known as the Shield Aralia or Balfour Aralia, prized for its striking green leaves with cream/yellow variegation, air-purifying qualities, slow growth, and adaptability, making it great for containers, though it needs consistent moisture, warmth, and bright indirect light to avoid dropping leaves, especially in dry winter air.
Key Characteristics & Care: Appearance:
Light:
Prefers bright, indirect light; variegated types need more light to maintain color. Avoid harsh, direct sun.
Watering:
Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy; allow the top inch or two to dry between waterings; sensitive to both overwatering (root rot) and dry air.
Humidity:
High humidity is ideal, especially in dry indoor environments, so misting can help.
Temperature:
Keep above 16°C (60°F), with 20-22°C (68-72°F) being optimal; protect from cold drafts.
Pruning:
Responds well to pruning, which encourages bushier growth and helps maintain size.
Key Characteristics & Care: Appearance:
Light:
Prefers bright, indirect light; variegated types need more light to maintain color. Avoid harsh, direct sun.
Watering:
Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy; allow the top inch or two to dry between waterings; sensitive to both overwatering (root rot) and dry air.
Humidity:
High humidity is ideal, especially in dry indoor environments, so misting can help.
Temperature:
Keep above 16°C (60°F), with 20-22°C (68-72°F) being optimal; protect from cold drafts.
Pruning:
Responds well to pruning, which encourages bushier growth and helps maintain size.