Araliaceae
Contents
Description
Araliaceae is a family of plants that includes over 1,200 species. The family is widely distributed in tropical and temperate regions and includes trees, shrubs, and lianas. The leaves are often alternate, compound, and palmate or pinnate. The flowers are small and usually arranged in umbels, panicles, or spikes. The fruits are often berry-like or drupe-like, and some species have spines or prickles.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Araliaceae |
| Genus | Various |
Appearance
Araliaceae plants vary in appearance depending on the species. The leaves can be simple or compound, and are often large and glossy. The flowers are typically small and white or greenish-yellow, and are arranged in umbels or panicles. The fruits are often berry-like or drupe-like, and can be red, black, or blue. Some species have spines or prickles, which can make them difficult to handle.
Care Guide
Araliaceae plants require moderate care to thrive. Here are the care requirements for these plants:
Water: Araliaceae plants prefer consistent moisture, but do not like to be overwatered. Water them when the top inch of soil is dry.
Fertilization: Fertilize Araliaceae plants every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Soil: Araliaceae plants prefer well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
Sunlight: Araliaceae plants prefer bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can burn the leaves.
Hardiness Zones: Araliaceae plants are hardy in zones 8-11. In cooler climates, they can be grown as indoor plants.
Common Pests & Diseases
Araliaceae plants are susceptible to a few pests and diseases. Here are some of the most common:
Spider mites: These pests can cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves. Use a miticide to control them.
Mealybugs: These pests can cause a white, powdery substance to form on the leaves. Use insecticidal soap to control them.
Root rot: Overwatering can cause root rot, which can lead to wilting and yellowing of the leaves. Make sure the soil is well-drained and allow it to dry out slightly between waterings.
Habitat
Araliaceae plants are found in a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and wetlands. They are native to Asia, Australia, North America, South America, and Africa. Some species are also cultivated as ornamental plants.
Question and Answer
Q: What are some common Araliaceae plants?
A: Some common Araliaceae plants include the umbrella tree (Schefflera actinophylla), the Japanese aralia (Fatsia japonica), and the devil’s ivy (Epipremnum aureum).
Q: Can Araliaceae plants be grown indoors?
A: Yes, many Araliaceae plants can be grown indoors as long as they receive bright, indirect sunlight.
Q: How often should Araliaceae plants be fertilized?
A: Araliaceae plants should be fertilized every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: How do you control spider mites on Araliaceae plants?
A: Use a miticide to control spider mites on Araliaceae plants. Make sure to follow the instructions on the label.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants in the Araliaceae family:
- Schefflera actinophylla (umbrella tree)
- Fatsia japonica (Japanese aralia)
- Epipremnum aureum (devil’s ivy)
- Hedera helix (English ivy)
- Dizygotheca elegantissima (false aralia)
References
- Flora of China. (2021). Araliaceae. In Wu, Z. Y., Raven, P. H., & Hong, D. Y. (Eds.). Flora of China. Science Press & Missouri Botanical Garden Press.
- RHS. (2021). Araliaceae. Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/pdfs/plant-features/araliaceae.pdf
- USDA. (2021). Plants Database. United States Department of Agriculture. https://plants.usda.gov/home
