Dinner Plate Aralia
Polyscias scutellaria
Dinner Plate Aralia is an evergreen shrub with large, leathery leaves that cup upward like shallow bowls. Woody stems and a dense canopy give it a tall specimen look, and you can also train it as a compact indoor bonsai. Steady light and humidity help it keep that full silhouette.
Light
Bright Indirect
Water
Moderate
Difficulty
Moderate
Humidity
High
Pet Warning
The plant contains saponins which are toxic to cats, dogs, and horses if ingested. Ingestion can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and oral irritation. The sap may also cause skin irritation in some individuals.
Care Notes
Light
Place your Dinner Plate Aralia in bright, indirect light. Direct afternoon sun can scorch the leaves, but it still needs enough ambient light to stay dense.
Water
Keep the soil evenly moist without waterlogging. Water again when the top inch feels dry. Empty the saucer so the roots never sit in standing water.
Soil
Use a rich, peat-based mix with perlite or coarse sand. A planter with drainage holes is non-negotiable for this plant.
Humidity & Temperature
It prefers humidity above 50%. Use a humidifier, mist regularly, or set the pot on a pebble tray. Keep temperatures between 65°F and 85°F (18°C-29°C) and away from cold drafts or AC vents. In winter, water less and pause fertilizer.
Common Issues
Leaf drop usually follows a move or a sudden change in light or temperature. Pick a steady spot and leave it there while it adjusts.
In-Depth Care & Growth
Feeding & Soil
Fertilizer
Balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer (10-10-10)
Soil
A well-draining, rich, peat-based potting mix with added perlite or coarse sand for aeration.
Physical Attributes
Mature Size
3 to 6 feet tall indoors
Growth Rate
Slow
Propagation
Stem cuttings taken in late spring or summer, ideally with bottom heat.
Common Varieties
Fabian (maroon-edged leaves)
Glossy dinner-plate-shaped leaves with a dark green center and deep maroon-purple undersides and scalloped edges.
Balfouriana (variegated edges)
Large round green leaves with irregular creamy-white margins and lightly scalloped edges.
Marginata
Large, rounded, cup-shaped green leaves edged with a creamy-white border along the scallops.