SPECIMEN NO. #121
⚠️ TOXIC TO PETS
Family: Araliaceae
Polyscias scutellaria
Common Name: Shield Aralia
Shield Aralia (Polyscias scutellaria) is a houseplant in the Araliaceae family, native to Caribbean. It is a bright indirect-light species that thrives between 2000 and 6000 lux. Optimal indoor care calls for watering roughly every 7 days, temperatures of 16–30°C, and about 55% humidity. According to ASPCA data, it is toxic to dogs and cats; reported symptoms include inferred from aspca: genus 'polyscias' contains members toxic to dogs and cats. species-level confirmation pending. It is also known as Shield Aralia.
ASPCA Pet Toxicity Determination
Toxic to Dogs?
YES (Toxic)
Toxic to Cats?
YES (Toxic)
Clinical Symptoms:
Inferred from ASPCA: genus 'Polyscias' contains members toxic to dogs and cats. Species-level confirmation pending.
Quantitative Care Thresholds
Light Level Profile
Bright Indirect
Minimum Light Requirement
2000 Lux
Maximum Light Tolerance
6000 Lux
Watering Frequency
Every 7 Days
Temperature Envelope
16°C – 30°C
Ideal Ambient Humidity
55% RH
Taxonomic & Field Verification
GBIF Usage Key
3035778
Native Biogeographical Range
Caribbean; Caroline Is.; Dominican Republic; Galápagos Islands; Gilbert Is.; Hai...