Dizygotheca elegantissima (Sawtooth or Thread-leaf Aralia)
Origin
Native to islands of South Pacific
General Care
Light
Medium to bright filtered. Avoid direct sun, which scorches leaves.
Temperature
18-30°C. Keep above 15°C.
Humidity
Average to higher. For extra humidity: mist 1-2 times per week, place pot on moist pebbles in a tray, group with other plants, or, introduce a humidifier.
Water
Weekly. Water moderately and allow moist soil to dry within top 1-2”. Avoid soggy or completely dry potting mix. Always check moisture level before watering. Aerate mix to improve its condition.
Fertilizer
Every 2 weeks (spring-fall). Use organic houseplant fertilizer, according to packaging instructions.
Maintenance
Every 1-2 weeks, rotate plant to ensure even growth. Every 1-2 months, give your plant a tepid shower; spray leaf tops/undersides, to free them of dust, and soak mix, to leach accumulated salts. Inspect plant for pests, when doing so. Clear fallen leaves from planter. Trim faded stems at their base.
Potting and Repotting
Soil-based potting mix. For small plants: every 1-2 years (spring) move plant into a planter 1-2” larger (diameter and depth); or, repot in the same planter, using new potting mix, after cleaning planter and partially trimming back roots and foliage. For large plants: every 2-3 years (spring) move plant into a planter 2-4” larger (diameter and depth); or, repot in the same planter, using new potting mix, after cleaning planter and partially trimming back roots and foliage. Top dress annually, once maximum convenient planter size reached.
Special Points/Common Problems:
- May drop leaves due to inconsistent watering, inadequate light or a sudden change in temperature.
- Droopy or wilting leaves may suggest overwatering.
- Brown or crispy edges may suggest too much light.