Polyscias balfouriana, poliscia.

The genus Polyscias, of the Araliaceae family, consists of about 100 species of shrubs and trees from tropical regions of the Pacific and Australia.        

They are perennial shrubs that do not usually exceed one metre in height in pots. Their leaves are bright green and rounded. There are varieties with variegated leaves.

They are mainly used as house and greenhouse plants.

Poliscia needs a well-lit but not in direct sunlight, high humidity and temperatures never below 18°C all year round.

The ideal soil for these shrubs is a mixture of 1/3 peat, 1/3 coarse sand and 1/3 leaf mould. They should be repotted every year in spring into a larger pot.

Water this plant sparingly but regularly; wait until the soil is dry on the surface before the next watering.

Pruning is not necessary.

It should be fertilised every fortnight with mineral fertiliser during spring and summer.

If the environment is dry, it can be attacked by pests such as mealy bugs and red spider mites.

It is a plant that can be propagated from apical cuttings, although it is more advisable to purchase specimens in garden centres and plant shops.