Common False Aralia Plant Diseases:
How to Identify and Treat

False Aralias, also known as Dizygotheca elegantissima, are a popular houseplant due to their attractive foliage and ease of care. However, like all plants, they are susceptible to diseases that can cause damage if not identified and treated promptly. In this article, we will discuss the most common false aralia plant diseases, how to identify them, and the best ways to treat them.

Powdery Mildew

Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that affects many plants, including false aralias. It appears as a white or gray powdery substance on the leaves and stems of the plant, causing them to become discolored and distorted. The fungus thrives in humid conditions and spreads easily through water droplets.

To treat powdery mildew, remove the affected leaves and dispose of them properly. Increase ventilation around the plant to reduce humidity, and avoid overwatering. If the infestation is severe, you can use a fungicide specifically designed for powdery mildew.

Root Rot

Root rot is a common problem for false aralias that are overwatered or planted in poorly draining soil. It occurs when the roots become waterlogged and begin to rot, leading to stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and eventually death if not addressed.

To treat root rot, remove the plant from its pot and inspect the roots for any signs of rot. Remove any affected roots with sterile scissors or pruning shears and repot the plant into fresh soil with good drainage. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings to prevent future occurrences of root rot.

Scale Insects

Scale insects are small pests that attach themselves to the leaves and stems of false aralias, sucking sap from the plant and causing yellowing leaves and stunted growth. They appear as small bumps on the plant and can be difficult to remove.

To treat scale insects, use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to wipe the affected areas of the plant. Repeat this process every few days until the infestation is gone. If the infestation is severe, you can use an insecticide specifically designed for scale insects.

Leaf Spot

Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes circular or irregularly shaped spots on the leaves of false aralias. These spots may be brown or black and can cause the leaves to drop prematurely. Leaf spot is often caused by overwatering or poor air circulation.

To treat leaf spot, remove any affected leaves and dispose of them properly. Improve ventilation around the plant and avoid overwatering. If the infestation is severe, you can use a fungicide specifically designed for leaf spot.

Spider Mites

Spider mites are tiny pests that spin webs on the undersides of leaves and suck sap from the plant, causing yellowing leaves and stunted growth. They are difficult to see with the naked eye but can be identified by their webs.

To treat spider mites, wipe down the affected areas of the plant with a damp cloth or spray with a mixture of water and dish soap. Repeat this process every few days until the infestation is gone. If the infestation is severe, you can use an insecticide specifically designed for spider mites.

FAQ

How often should I water my false aralia?

False aralias prefer to be kept slightly dry between waterings. Water only when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch.

Can I propagate false aralias?

Yes, false aralias can be propagated by stem cuttings. Take a cutting from a healthy plant and place it in water or soil until it roots.

Can false aralias be grown outdoors?

False aralias are not frost-tolerant and should be grown indoors in most climates. They can be grown outdoors in warm, humid climates with partial shade.

How often should I fertilize my false aralia?

False aralias should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer.