Radermachera - China Doll

The China Doll plant (Radermachera sinica) is a lovely, fast-growing houseplant prized for its glossy, emerald-green, feathery foliage. It looks beautifully delicate, but it can be a bit particular about its environment. Once you find its sweet spot, it will happily flourish.

Care Guide

Light & Placement

• Bright, indirect light: Your China Doll needs plenty of light to maintain its compact, bushy shape. A spot near an east- or west-facing window is ideal.

• Avoid scorching sun: Direct midday sunlight will scorch the delicate leaves, causing them to turn yellow or brown.

• Pick a spot and stay there: These plants absolutely hate being moved. A sudden change in location, light or temperature often triggers a dramatic leaf drop. Find a good home for it and try to keep it there.

Watering & Humidity

• Keep it evenly moist: Water thoroughly whenever the top 2 to 3 centimetres of soil feel dry to the touch. The compost should remain damp but never waterlogged.

• Never leave it in standing water: Ensure your pot has excellent drainage. Leaving the roots sitting in water will quickly cause root rot.

• Boost the humidity: Coming from subtropical regions, it appreciates a humid environment. Mist the leaves regularly, place it on a pebble tray filled with water, or group it with other houseplants.

Temperature & Drafts

• Average room temperature: It thrives in standard household temperatures. Try not to let its environment drop below 15°C.

• Watch out for drafts: Keep the plant well away from cold draughts, open windows, and direct heat sources like radiators or air conditioning vents.

Compost & Fertiliser

• Well-draining compost: Use a high-quality, peat-free houseplant potting mix blended with a little perlite to ensure excellent drainage.

• Feed during the growing season: Apply a balanced liquid houseplant fertiliser diluted to half-strength once a month from April to September. Do not feed it at all during the winter.

Pruning & Maintenance

• Prune for bushiness: China Doll plants grow quickly and can become leggy. Pinch out the growing tips or give it a light trim in spring to encourage a fuller, bushier shape.

• Repot sparingly: These plants actually prefer being slightly root-bound. Only repot into a slightly larger container when you see roots growing out of the drainage holes.

Top Tip: If your China Doll suddenly drops its leaves, don't panic! It is likely reacting to a draft, a change in watering, or being moved. Fix the environmental issue, cut back slightly on watering so you don't drown the bare roots, and it will often sprout fresh green growth within a few weeks.

Sold without decorative pot, colour and size may vary slightly.

Local plant delivery or collection available in Belfast and throughout Northern Ireland.

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