Pruning a China doll

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NerissaCA Berkeley, CA(Zone 9a) May 20, 2008

Thanks to everyone who responded to my earlier post regarding my mystery plant, which has been identified as a Schefflera. Here's my other question: I have a China doll growing in a container in my covered patio. It's gotten so tall that it's bent because of the patio ceiling. At the very least I think I have to pinch it back quite a bit, but I will probably have to prune it. Is there a safe time to prune a China doll? Or should I just do it? I've had this plant for years and I would hate to harm it!

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SpiritSinger Manderson, SD May 21, 2008

i know what you mean...i have one that has just shot up...and over this last year, seems to really like the spot i have it in. i decided to do some research on this charming houseplant...imagine my intense surprise to discover this little lady is actually an amazon in disguise...she can grow into something like a 40 foot tree complete with flowers. i knew there was a reason i chose not to prune her. at least not yet. i dont live in an area of the country where she can grow outdoors, but i will allow her to grow as large as she can indoors before i begin pruning her, then i will only snip here and there to keep her from going through the roof. just like any tree, i would think that what ever your cold season is would be your trees' dormant cycle, and i think that is supposed to be the time to prune. good luck with your girl. google china doll, or serpent tree...and be prepared for a few surprises.

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