Dizygotheca elegantissima ‘Castor’, commonly known as False Aralia, is an elegant tropical houseplant admired for its delicate, finely divided foliage and distinctive architectural growth habit. Its slender, finger-like leaflets feature beautifully serrated edges and deep green to bronze colouring, creating an almost feathery appearance. With its upright stems and graceful foliage, this unusual plant makes a wonderful statement piece for a bright indoor space.
Scientific Name
Plerandra elegantissima ‘Castor’ (formerly Dizygotheca elegantissima ‘Castor’ and Schefflera elegantissima)
Common Name(s)
False Aralia, Castor False Aralia, Threadleaf Aralia
Origin
A cultivated selection of Plerandra elegantissima, a species native to New Caledonia in the South Pacific, where it grows in warm, humid tropical forests.
Light
Prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate moderate light levels. Avoid strong direct sunlight, which can scorch the delicate foliage. A position near an east-facing window or slightly back from a bright south or west-facing window is ideal.
Water
Water when the top few centimetres of soil have dried, then water thoroughly and allow excess water to drain away. Keep the compost lightly moist during active growth but avoid waterlogging. Reduce watering slightly during autumn and winter, but avoid allowing the root ball to dry out completely for prolonged periods.
Humidity
Prefers moderate to high humidity, ideally around 50–70%. Higher humidity helps maintain healthy foliage and prevent crispy leaf edges. Keep away from radiators and other sources of hot, dry air.
Soil
Use a rich, airy and well-draining houseplant mix. A combination of peat-free compost, perlite and fine orchid bark works well, allowing the roots to retain some moisture while maintaining good drainage.
Food
Feed every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with a balanced liquid houseplant fertiliser diluted to half strength. Reduce feeding during autumn and winter when growth slows.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures between 18–27°C. Protect from cold draughts, sudden temperature changes and prolonged temperatures below 15°C.
Pet-safe
There is limited reliable information about the toxicity of Plerandra elegantissima to cats and dogs. As a precaution, keep out of reach of pets and children.
Sprouts Top Tips
False Aralias appreciate consistency, so avoid frequently moving your ‘Castor’ or exposing it to sudden changes in temperature and humidity. Give it plenty of bright, indirect light and maintain slightly moist but well-drained soil.
If your plant begins dropping leaves, check for cold draughts, dry air or changes in watering, as these are common causes of stress.
Extras
‘Castor’ develops an upright, branching growth habit and can gradually become a substantial indoor plant. Its finely divided foliage gives it a light, airy appearance, making it particularly attractive in contemporary and tropical-inspired interiors.
As the plant matures, its leaves may become broader and less finely divided, creating a noticeably different appearance from its younger foliage.
Did You Know?
Despite its common name, False Aralia is not a true Aralia, although both belong to the Araliaceae family.
This plant has also undergone several botanical name changes, having previously been classified as Dizygotheca and Schefflera before being placed in the genus Plerandra.
