Contents
Description
Polyscias Fruticosa Ming, commonly known as Ming Aralia, is a tropical evergreen shrub or small tree native to Southeast Asia. It belongs to the Araliaceae family and is a popular indoor plant due to its ornamental value and easy care.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Araliaceae |
| Genus | Polyscias |
Appearance
Ming Aralia has a bushy, upright growth habit and can reach up to 6 feet tall in its natural habitat. Its glossy leaves are palmately compound, with 7-11 leaflets that are dark green on the upper surface and lighter green on the lower surface. The leaflets are oval or elliptical in shape, with serrated edges and pointed tips. The stems are brown and woody, and the plant produces small white flowers in the spring and summer, followed by red or black berries.
Care Guide
Ming Aralia is a low-maintenance plant that can thrive in a variety of indoor settings. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Ming Aralia prefers moist but well-draining soil, so avoid overwatering or letting the plant sit in standing water.
- Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer every 2-3 months during the growing season (spring and summer).
- Soil: Use a well-draining potting mix that is rich in organic matter. Ming Aralia prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH of 5.5-6.5.
- Sunlight: Ming Aralia prefers bright, indirect sunlight, but can tolerate low light conditions. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.
- Hardiness Zones: Ming Aralia is not frost-tolerant and is best suited for USDA hardiness zones 10-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Ming Aralia is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but may occasionally suffer from the following issues:
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves. Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Mealybugs: Mealybugs are white, cottony pests that feed on the sap of the plant. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Root rot: Overwatering or poorly-draining soil can lead to root rot, which can cause the plant to wilt and die. To prevent root rot, allow the soil to dry out partially between waterings and ensure adequate drainage.
Habitat
Ming Aralia is native to Southeast Asia, where it grows in tropical forests and along riverbanks. It prefers warm, humid conditions and can tolerate temperatures between 60-85°F.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Ming Aralia be grown outdoors?
A: Ming Aralia is not frost-tolerant and is best grown indoors in most regions. It can be grown outdoors in USDA hardiness zones 10-11, but should be protected from direct sunlight and cold temperatures.
Q: How often should I fertilize Ming Aralia?
A: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer every 2-3 months during the growing season (spring and summer).
Q: Can I propagate Ming Aralia?
A: Yes, Ming Aralia can be propagated by stem cuttings or air layering.
Q: How often should I repot Ming Aralia?
A: Ming Aralia prefers to be slightly root-bound, so it only needs to be repotted every 2-3 years or when the roots start to outgrow the pot.
Related Plants
- Polyscias balfouriana
- Polyscias scutellaria
- Polyscias guilfoylei
- Polyscias fruticosa
References
- “Polyscias fruticosa.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 20 Oct. 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b246>.
- “Polyscias fruticosa Ming.” The Spruce. Accessed 20 Oct. 2021. <https://www.thespruce.com/ming-aralia-care-1902757>.
- “Ming Aralia: Polyscias fruticosa.” Houseplant Central. Accessed 20 Oct. 2021. <https://houseplantcentral.com/polyscias-fruticosa-ming-aralia-care/>.
