The radiant aralie is one of the most popular indoor plants because it is very easy to care for and thrives luxuriantly. Therefore, it is not only suitable as an ornament for the home, but also beautifies the office and public buildings. In addition, it filters pollutants from the air with its leaves and thus ensures a better indoor climate. With our care tips, you will have friends with your attractive, green roommate for many years.

The Schefflera is an undemanding houseplant

The look

You can recognize the Schefflera by its slim, upright growth. With good care, it can reach a height of over two meters. Since it hardly branches, several plants are usually offered in the trade fixed around a moss trunk.

The glossy, dark green, large leaves are radially arranged. Indoor plants bloom very rarely. If this is the case, the radiate aralie forms green-yellow flower panicles.

The right location

The Schefflera feels at home even in slightly darker areas of the room and can handle dry heating air well. It thrives in semi-shade, but also loves brighter places. However, direct sunlight should be avoided.

soil and potting

Whether you choose hydroponics or traditional potting soil, radiant macaw grows well either way. Repot young plants annually and shorten roots that have become too long.

watering and fertilizing

Keep the substrate slightly moist, but do not overwater, as the ornamental leaf plant is sensitive to overwatering.

Fertilize once a week during the growing season with a commercial liquid fertilizer for leafy plants. In winter it is sufficient to fertilize once a month.

Shower the plant occasionally or wipe the foliage with a damp cloth and lime-free water. This keeps the leaves shiny and healthy.

The cutback

If the radiate ara grows too much for you, you can boldly reach for the scissors:

  • Trim the top from time to time, this promotes bushy growth and prevents the lower area from becoming bald.
  • The few side shoots should be trimmed regularly for the same reason.
  • Since the schefflera is lignified, the branches are cut off just above a bud or branch fork.
  • Plants that have lost a lot of foliage during the winter months sprout vigorously after pruning.

diseases and pests

The Schefflera is an extremely robust houseplant. Only too much watering can lead to root rot. Kick occasionally

  • Scale, aphids or mealybugs as well
  • spider mites

on. These can be easily treated with a commercially available insecticide.

tips

In the warm summer months you can put the radiant macaw outdoors. Again, the location should not be too sunny and sheltered from the wind. Bring the plant back indoors as soon as the temperature drops below ten degrees at night.

Category:

Indoor plants