False Aralia Tree 45G

False Aralia Tree in 45-Gallon Pot available in Jupiter, FL

Textural, tropical, and irresistibly architectural—the False Aralia Tree (Plerandra elegantissima, formerly Schefflera elegantissima) is a designer favorite for its narrow, serrated leaves that create an elegant, lace-like effect. Though it’s often grown as a houseplant, False Aralia thrives outdoors in South Florida’s warm, humid climate, adding height and movement to gardens, courtyards, and shady patios. With its soft silhouette and vertical habit, it’s a perfect choice for modern landscapes or serene tropical hideaways.

This 45-gallon specimen brings vertical drama and instant softness to the landscape—ready to plant and elevate any shady spot.

Care & Growing Info (Optimized for South Florida):

• Sunlight: Prefers part shade or filtered sunlight. Can tolerate morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon exposure.

• Watering: Moderate. Likes evenly moist soil—avoid letting it fully dry out. Add mulch to retain moisture.

• Soil: Well-drained, rich soil with organic matter. Loamy or sandy mixes work well.

• Fertilizer: Feed monthly during spring and summer with a balanced fertilizer for lush foliage.

• Growth Habit: Upright, slender, and airy with fine-textured foliage. In a 45-gallon pot, it stands 7–9 feet tall. Can grow 12–20 feet tall in ideal in-ground conditions.

• Temperature: USDA Zones 10–11. Loves humidity and warmth—protect from frost or chilly wind.

• Maintenance: Low. Prune lightly to shape or remove leggy stems. Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy.

Foliage Notes:
Dark green, narrow, toothed leaves create a unique, feathery appearance—adding softness and vertical contrast in the landscape. Often mistaken for a fern or palm from a distance.

Medicinal & Nutritional Benefits:
Primarily ornamental. No known medicinal or edible uses. However, its ability to improve air quality when used indoors has been noted in studies—outdoors, it adds beauty, texture, and a calming visual effect.

Ideal For:

• Shady garden nooks or patio corners

• Tropical or Zen-inspired landscapes

• Narrow garden beds needing vertical lift

• Modern homes and soft screening

• Gardeners who love unique, fine-textured foliage

Plant Classification:

• Scientific Name: Plerandra elegantissima (formerly Schefflera elegantissima)

• Plant Type: Tropical ornamental tree/shrub

• Family: Araliaceae (same family as ginseng and ivy)

• Class: Dicot

• Growth Form: Broadleaf evergreen perennial

  • Evergreen: Keeps delicate-looking leaves all year

  • Perennial: Long-lived with steady vertical growth

  • Broadleaf: Thin, deeply lobed leaves that look lacy or fern-like

• Container Size: 45-gallon pot

Jupiter Farms & Nursery