Ming Aralia
Polyscias fruticosa
The Ming Aralia is a stunning, fern-like evergreen shrub known for its complex, lacy foliage and twisty, woody stems that give it an ancient, bonsai-like appearance. Native to the Pacific Islands and Southeast Asia, it is a slow-growing plant that adds a touch of sophisticated, architectural elegance to any indoor space. Its delicate texture contrasts beautifully with the thick, trunk-like stems that develop as the plant matures.
Light
Bright Indirect
Water
Moderate
Difficulty
Moderate
Humidity
High
Pet Warning
Contains saponins which are toxic to cats, dogs, and horses. Ingestion may cause oral irritation, drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea. The sap can also cause skin irritation in humans and pets.
Care Guide
Light Requirements
Place your Ming Aralia in a spot that receives bright, indirect sunlight. It can tolerate medium light conditions, but growth will be significantly slower. Avoid direct afternoon sun, which can scorch the delicate, lacy leaflets.
Watering
Ming Aralia prefers to stay consistently moist but never soggy. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. This plant is sensitive to overwatering, which can lead to root rot, and underwatering, which will cause the foliage to drop.
Humidity and Temperature
High humidity is crucial for this species. If your home is dry, especially in winter, use a humidifier or place the plant on a pebble tray filled with water. Keep it in a warm environment between 65°F and 85°F (18°C - 29°C) and protect it from cold drafts or air conditioning vents.
Soil and Potting
Use a rich, well-draining potting mix. A peat-based mix with added perlite or sand for drainage is ideal. Ming Aralia does not like to be repotted often; only move it to a larger container when it becomes significantly root-bound.
Pruning
Pruning is encouraged to maintain the plant's shape and to encourage fuller growth. You can trim the tops to control height or selectively remove branches to highlight the intricate trunk structure.
In-Depth Care & Growth
Feeding & Soil
Fertilizer
Balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer
Soil
Rich, organic, well-drained peat-based potting soil.
Physical Attributes
Mature Size
3 to 6 feet tall indoors
Growth Rate
Slow
Propagation
Stem cuttings taken in spring or summer, preferably using a rooting hormone and high humidity.