Photo: Daderot, CC0 · source
Pruning guide · Houseplant
Shield aralia: when and how to prune
Polyscias scutellaria
Shield aralia is best pruned in March–April.
| Pruning months | March–April |
|---|---|
| Poisonous to people and pets | Yes, take care with children and pets |
Shield aralia: when to prune it?
In March–April, before new growth starts. Small corrections can be made all year round.
Shield aralia: how to prune it?
- Wear gloves and cut with clean, sharp scissors just above a node.
- Cut stems that are too long or bare back to the height you want: new side shoots grow below the cut.
- Remove dead, crossing and yellow branches to keep the shrub airy.
- Use the cut-off tips as cuttings.
How much to cut, and how often?
- One pruning period a year: March–April.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- A houseplant lives indoors, so wildlife hardly notices the pruning. Healthy clippings can go on the compost.
Caution: The sap can irritate the skin and the plant is toxic: wear gloves and wash your hands and the tool after pruning. Do not prune in the dark winter months. Shield aralia is poisonous: wear gloves and keep clippings away from children, pets and livestock.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Shield aralia · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.