China Doll
Radermachera sinica
Fine, glossy compound leaves in a full, bushy form.
Plant care guideCare guide
- 1Bright direct light
- 2Bright indirect light
- 3Medium light
- 4Low light
Watering requirements
Water every 7–10 days, letting the soil dry to the right level between waterings.
Sunlight requirements
Needs bright light, including some direct sun. Keep it near a bright window or in an open, sunny spot.
Humidity requirements
Normal room humidity will do. Keep it away from direct AC airflow.
Pet-friendly plant?
Not verified. Keep it out of reach of pets and check with your vet if unsure.
Care level
Moderate
Best setting
Indoor
About China Doll
Native to Africa and naturally bushy with fine-textured, glossy leaflets — reads as a lush, well-kept floor plant near bright windows or skylit atriums without needing frequent pruning. Typically kept at 2-3 feet indoors, though it can reach 5-6 feet given room to grow.
Fine, glossy foliage that needs bright light and steady conditions.
Where it works best
- Bright atriums & skylit lobbies
- Floor planting near windows
How to care for China Doll
Sunlight
Needs bright light, ideally near a window or skylight. In low light it drops its fine leaflets.
Water
Water when the top few centimetres of soil are dry, then water thoroughly and let the excess drain. Reduce watering in the monsoon and in cool, air-conditioned rooms.
Humidity & temperature
Comfortable in normal indoor conditions at 18–32°C. Keep it away from cold drafts and direct AC airflow.
Soil & feeding
Use a well-draining potting mix and a pot with drainage holes. Feed lightly every 6–8 weeks in the growing season.
Pruning
Remove dead or yellow leaves and trim leggy growth in spring.
Propagation
Most can be propagated from stem cuttings in the warm season: root them in water or moist mix and pot up when roots form.
Common problems
- Symptom
Dropping leaflets
CauseLow light, a move to a new spot, or cold drafts.
- Symptom
Yellow leaves
CauseOverwatering.
- Symptom
Sparse growth
CauseToo little light; prune lightly to encourage branching.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know when to water?
Push a finger into the soil. If it feels dry a few centimetres down, water thoroughly; if it is still damp, wait a few more days.
How do I keep the leaves clean?
Wipe them every couple of weeks with a soft, damp cloth. Dust blocks light and makes plants look tired.
Is it safe for pets and children?
Keep China Doll out of reach of pets and small children. Many ornamental plants can irritate the mouth or stomach if chewed. If a pet or child eats part of the plant, contact a vet or doctor.
Care guidance is general advice for Indian indoor and outdoor conditions. For plants in a Bonita maintenance programme, our team looks after watering and feeding for you.
