Large False Aralia

Turn your living room into a mysterious jungle hideout with the False Aralia – nature's answer to "dramatic flair." Those serrated, feathery leaflets start coppery-brown and mature to deliciously dark green. This diva will have your other plants feeling all insecure.

Think of it as the cool, sophisticated plant with an attitude. Native to New Caledonia, the False Aralia (formally known as Plerandra elegantissima if you want to sound fancy at dinner parties) brings exotic South Pacific vibes to your home without requiring a passport.

Care 

Should you mist a False Aralia?

Your False Aralia thrives on humidity. Regular misting isn't just recommended – it's practically required if you want to avoid the dreaded brown-edged leaf tantrum. Think of it as your plant's refreshing spa treatment that also keeps pesky spider mites away.

While misting helps maintain your plant's happy mood, it might not be enough to satisfy her tropical cravings. Consider adding a humidity tray or humidifier to really make her feel like she’s vacationing in a luxury South Pacific resort.

What lighting does a False Aralia need?

False Aralia craves bright, indirect light like a vampire curious about daylight but afraid of getting crispy. While she can tolerate lower light conditions, she'll grow fuller and happier near a window where sunlight plays peek-a-boo through a sheer curtain.

Direct sunlight will turn your gorgeous plant into crispy fried foliage faster than you can say "oops." She’ll reward proper lighting with lusher growth and that striking color contrast between new and mature leaves that makes this plant a total showstopper.

How often do you water a False Aralia?

Water your False Aralia like you're following a very specific recipe – thoroughly soak the soil, then wait until the top inch (or third) dries out before repeating. She appreciates a good drink but hates soggy feet - the Goldilocks of watering.

Seasonal adjustments are key – our diva is thirstier during her spring and summer growth spurts but prefers to chill with less water during fall and winter. Overwatering leads to root rot (total plant disaster), while complete dryness causes dramatic leaf-dropping (plant temper tantrum).

Do you need to fertilize a False Aralia?

Your False Aralia isn't a demanding dinner guest, but she does appreciate a good meal. During spring and summer's growth party, feed every 2-4 weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer that's been diluted – because nobody likes an overly strong cocktail.

Come fall and winter, however, she’s watching her figure. Reduce fertilizing to monthly or less. Over-fertilizing is like force-feeding your plant – it causes more harm than good and makes for an unhappy leafy friend.

Do False Aralia like to be root-bound?

False Aralia absolutely hates tight spaces – she needs room to stretch out. When her roots start circling the pot or escaping through the drainage holes, your plant is basically screaming, "I can't breathe in here!"

Plan on repotting her every couple of years into a slightly larger container. When you do, gently loosen those cramped roots – you’re giving her a root spa day that helps her breathe and grow without feeling squished into too-tight plant pants.

What type of fertilizer is best for a False Aralia?

Ideal fertilizer for your False Aralia is a balanced liquid houseplant formula with an N-P-K ratio around 3-1-2. This magic potion supports lush foliage and strong roots, turning your already fabulous plant into the superstar she was born to be.

Always dilute to half-strength – your False Aralia prefers subtle flavors over overwhelming nutrient bombs. For a gentler approach, organic options like worm castings work wonderfully too. Just remember to take a fertilizer break during winter when she’s basically hitting the snooze button on growth.

What are the signs of overwatering a False Aralia?

Your False Aralia will throw a full-blown tantrum if you're heavy-handed with the watering can. Watch for yellowing leaves (especially the lower ones), sudden leaf drop, and wilting despite wet soil. All her way of waving red flags at you.

If her stems feel mushy, you've got a serious situation on your hands. Root rot is lurking below, and you might notice moldy soil or fungus gnats throwing a party around your plant. Stop watering her immediately and let things dry out – or consider emergency repotting if things look dire.

What temperature is best for the False Aralia?

Our diva thrives in those temperatures between 59-75°F (915-24°C) – basically the comfort zone where humans neither complain about sweating nor need extra sweaters. If you’re comfortable, she’s probably comfortable too - she thrives in pretty basic household temps. 

Temperatures below 13-15°C (55-59°F) will trigger a dramatic leaf-dropping protest. She also hates drafts and sudden temperature changes with a passion. Keep her away from air conditioners, heaters, and drafty windows to avoid watching her have a plant meltdown.

Is the False Aralia easy to care for?

The False Aralia isn't for plant newbies who still kill succulents. She’s the diva of the plant world, throwing leaf-dropping tantrums when moved, sulking in dry air, and demanding consistent watering. Once settled, she’ll reward your efforts with stunning foliage.

This plant particularly hates being relocated – it's like someone who unpacks their entire suitcase at a hotel, even for one night. Find her a good spot with bright indirect light and consistent humidity, then resist the urge to rearrange your furniture or move her for cleaning.

Pet-friendly?

Bad news for pet parents – the False Aralia contains toxic compounds harmful to both pets and humans if ingested. Keep her away from curious paws, claws, and tiny human hands that tend to explore the world via taste-testing.

 Is the False Aralia safe for dogs?

Sorry, dog parents! This is a strict "look but don't chew" relationship. This plant is toxic to dogs and can cause gastrointestinal upset if she’s eaten. Keep her elevated or in rooms your furry friend can't access.

Is the False Aralia poisonous to cats?

False Aralia is not a good companion for any furry critter, including felines. The plant is toxic to cats and can cause tummy troubles. Since cats are notorious plant samplers with climbing abilities, you'll need to be creative with placement.

Factoids

Where is the False Aralia native to?

The False Aralia lived her best tropical life as a native of New Caledonia, in the South Pacific. This explains her love for humidity and warmth – she's basically dreaming of beach vacations while living in your living room.

Does the False Aralia bloom?

The False Aralia rarely flowers - it technically can bloom, but almost never does indoors. If you’re lucky, expect small, green, and frankly underwhelming blooms. If pollinated, they develop into black berries that are more interesting than beautiful.

How tall does the False Aralia grow?

Indoors, your False Aralia typically reaches 1-2 meters (3-6 feet) tall – perfect for making your guests wonder if you've installed a mini-jungle in your living room. She could stretch up to 13 feet (4 meters), if you've got cathedral ceilings.

How fast does the False Aralia grow?

The False Aralia grows with the leisurely pace of someone permanently on vacation. Taking 10-20 years to reach her ultimate height, this slow-growing beauty gives you plenty of time to perfect your plant parent skills and plan her pot upgrade.

But if you buy from Pafe Plants, you can get a False Aralia who is already in her prime - over 7 feet tall!

Buy a False Aralia

Ready to adopt this feathery diva? Now you’ve brushed up on your False Aralia Care, we’re here to help. Our plants are hand-selected, personally introduced to you via video call, and delivered intact via our specialized freight shipping. No mystery plants here – what you see is exactly what arrives at your door, attitude and all!