Pronounced (schef-lera el-e-gan-tiss-i-ma)
Fast facts:

• Schefflera genus is comprised of tropical evergreen shrubs and small trees and known colloquially as 'umbrella trees'
• Schefflera elegantissima has also been categorized as 'Plerandra elegantissima' or 'Dizygotheca elegantissima', and it seems all genus names may be used interchangeably
• Common name is 'false aralia' or 'spider aralia'
• Native to New Caledonia and hardy zones 10-12

With eye-catching foliage, Schefflera elegantissima has easily become a shop favorite. Though there are no cultivars or varieties of this species rather, foliage will differ depending on maturity of the plant. Juvenile plants will have more textured leaves while adult specimen with have deeper lobes, a mature specimen is pictured above. In your home, false aralia's will prefer bright and indirect light, and prefer to have some air circulation, as well as good drainage in their planting mediums. It likes to be moist but not soggy, so a blend of perlite and peat moss can make a good baseline for planting, ensuring humidity will also help to ensure a happy houseplant. Leaf drop will occur with these plants if they are not receiving frequent enough waterings, so be sure the soil does not dry too much in between waterings. These plants are not pest tolerant, and it is important to check in with them frequently, especially in winter, to catch an infestation early. Feeding needs are on the lighter side, and the false aralia can be fed with a gentle fertilizer 1-3 times during the planting season. Though slow growing, these houseplants will reach 5-8 feet in height with maturity. 

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Pronounced (pep-er-ROH-mee-a gra-vee-OH-lens)
Fast facts:

• ​commonly known as 'ruby peperomia' or 'ruby glow'
• non-toxic to pets
• semi-succulent
• native to Ecuador

An easy to care for houseplant we love, Peperomia graveolens is a small succulent shrub growing up to 10" in height. Preferring bright indirect light, it is an excellent choice to sit in the sill of an East or North window, or set back from a West or South window. Leaves are V-shaped with green tops and wine red undersides and stems. This specimen has low watering needs, the soil must dry out in between waterings, and we'd recommend planting in a well-draining soil blend, such as a cactus or succulent mix. If leggy, tops can be pinched off to encourage branching and a denser growth habit. Blooms are long lasting and  emerge as long tendrils from the main growing stems of the plant with a red stem and creamy white to light green flower, deadhead when desired. A great selection for the individual looking to add some low maintenance color in their home or office environment!