Polyscias filicifolia

Polyscias filicifolia naturally occurs in habitats like forest understories and rocky areas where it grows in natural shade. It prefers partial sun but can tolerate full sun or full shade, illustrating its adaptable, hardy character.

Polyscias filicifolia comes from tropical areas, where the climate is generally warm and humid. As a result, it is well suited to high heat and humidity. It does not like sudden temperature changes and prefers a steady temperature environment, so avoiding temperature fluctuations indoors is important. It typically cannot tolerate cold temperatures and needs higher temperatures to grow. If the environmental temperature falls too low, the plant may stop growing or even die.

The best time to fertilize Polyscias filicifolia is in early spring as it comes out of dormancy. This stimulates overall growth and flower production. Fertilization improves the leaves, stems, and branches, and encourages flowers that are large, vivid, and long-lasting. It helps transport nutrients from the roots to the blooms and boosts the plant’s health and resistance to disease.

When repotting Polyscias filicifolia, select a pot 1–2 inches (2.5–5.1 cm) larger with good drainage. Use a well-draining potting mix. Repot in spring or fall, making sure the root ball is slightly lower than the rim of the flower pot. Water thoroughly after repotting and place in a warm spot with indirect sunlight.