Polyscias balfouriana – Balfour Aralia

This gorgeous Aralia is perfect for anyone who loves the woodland aesthetic and wants to fill their home with tiny trees. Its round, bright green-and-white leaves sprout from a dense array of branches at the top of its trunks, and it adapts well to growing indoors. You may have to prune it to keep it compact for your indoor space, but it will thank you for your care by growing its leaves more densely and looking all the happier! Keep this plant in bright, indirect light and with above-average humidity and its foliage will keep you smiling all year round.

Scientific Name
Polyscias balfouriana (Many-shaded plant, Balfour's species)

Synonyms: Aralia balfouriana, Panax balfourii

Originally identified as an Aralia, this plant has had the scientific name P. balfouriana since 1916.

Common Name(s)
Balfour Aralia, Dinner Plate Aralia, Plate Aralia, Aralia Balfour

Origin
The native range of this aralia is from New Guinea to Queensland, Australia, where it grows in wet tropical areas.

Light
This plant will benefit from getting a couple of hours of weaker morning or evening sun each day, with bright but indirect light the rest of the day; an east- or west-facing window is ideal for this. Strong direct sun can scorch or bleach the leaves, so even in the UK it won't do well in full sun.

Water
Make sure the top third of the soil has started to dry before you water; consistency is key with this plant. Use lukewarm water as cold water can shock the roots. Make sure excess water drains away and no roots are sat in a puddle.

Humidity
Will tolerate average household humidity but prefers slightly higher. If you notice the leaves curling and going brown and crispy, it may need higher humidity; use a pebble tray or humidifier to increase local humidity. Avoid operating radiators and draughts.

Soil
Use a well-draining mix, with components like coir, bark and sand. One designed for ficus will work well. Repot every few years in spring as the plant grows; it is fine being pot bound for a while but once the roots start growing out of the bottom, it's time for more space.

Food
Feed every four waters in the growing season, reduce to every six in autumn and winter.

Temperature
Prefers temperatures between 18-26°C. Protect from draughts and don't let temperatures drop below 16°C for long periods or overnight.

Pet-safe
No, this plant is toxic if ingested. Keep out of reach of pets and children.

Sprouts Top Tips
It is common to lose lower leaves as the plant grows; to keep it bushy and compact, prune or pinch out leggy growth regularly and rotate the plant to keep its growth regular.