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Description
Polyscias Cumingiana, also known as Ming Aralia, is a beautiful and unique evergreen shrub that belongs to the Araliaceae family. It is native to the Philippines and can grow up to 5-6 feet tall and wide. Its leaves are large, glossy, and deeply lobed, giving it a tropical look. This plant is an excellent choice for indoor and outdoor decoration due to its ornamental value.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Araliaceae |
| Genus | Polyscias |
Appearance
Polyscias Cumingiana has a unique appearance that makes it stand out from other plants. Its leaves are large, glossy, and deeply lobed, which gives it a tropical look. The leaves can be up to 12 inches long and 10 inches wide. The plant has a woody stem and can grow up to 5-6 feet tall and wide. The leaves are green and have a variegated pattern that adds to its ornamental value. The Ming Aralia can produce small white flowers in the summer, followed by small red berries that are not edible.
Care Guide
Polyscias Cumingiana can be a bit finicky when it comes to care, but with the right conditions, it can thrive. Here is a detailed care guide for this beautiful plant:
Water
This plant requires consistent moisture, but it does not like to sit in water. Water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry, and make sure the water drains out of the pot. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so be careful not to water too much.
Fertilization
Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer. Do not fertilize during the winter months when the plant is dormant.
Soil
Polyscias Cumingiana prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A mixture of peat moss, perlite, and sand is ideal for this plant.
Sunlight
This plant prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate some direct sunlight. Avoid placing it in full sun, as it can burn the leaves.
Hardiness Zones
The Ming Aralia is not frost hardy and can only be grown outdoors in USDA hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Polyscias Cumingiana is susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. Regularly inspect the plant for any signs of infestation, and treat it with insecticidal soap or neem oil.The plant can also be prone to leaf drop, especially if it is overwatered or underwatered. Other common problems include yellowing leaves, which can indicate a nutrient deficiency, and brown spots on the leaves, which can indicate a fungal infection.
Habitat
Polyscias Cumingiana is native to the Philippines, where it grows in tropical rainforests. The plant prefers warm, humid conditions and can be grown indoors or outdoors in a tropical climate.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Polyscias Cumingiana be grown indoors?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown indoors as long as it receives bright, indirect light and consistent moisture.
Q: How often should I fertilize Polyscias Cumingiana?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
Q: What should I do if my Polyscias Cumingiana is infested with spider mites?
A: Treat the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil to get rid of the spider mites.
Q: Can Polyscias Cumingiana be grown outdoors in cold climates?
A: No, this plant is not frost hardy and can only be grown outdoors in USDA hardiness zones 9-11.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants that you might also be interested in:
- Polyscias Fruticosa
- Polyscias Guilfoylei
- Polyscias Scutellaria
- Polyscias Balfouriana
References
- “Polyscias Cumingiana.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=280547&isprofile=0&basic=ming%20aralia.
- “Polyscias Cumingiana.” Floridata, www.floridata.com/Plants/Araliaceae/Polyscias%20cumingiana/598.
- “Ming Aralia.” Plants Care Guide, www.plantscareguide.com/ming-aralia-polyscias-cumingiana-care-guide/.
