Ming Aralia
Polyscias fruticosa
Ming Aralia is a slow-growing evergreen shrub with lacy, fern-like foliage and twisty woody stems that can look almost bonsai-like indoors. From the Pacific Islands and Southeast Asia, it brings fine texture and a structured silhouette to a bright room.
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 Notes
Light
Give bright, indirect light. Medium light is tolerated, but growth slows. Avoid direct afternoon sun, which can scorch the fine leaflets.
Water
Keep the soil evenly moist but never soggy. Water when the top inch feels dry. Both overwatering and long dry spells can cause leaf drop.
Soil
Use a rich peat-based mix with perlite or sand for drainage, in a pot with drainage holes. Ming Aralia dislikes frequent repotting; only move it up when it is clearly root-bound.
Humidity and Temperature
High humidity matters. Use a humidifier or pebble tray if indoor air is dry. Keep temperatures between 65°F and 85°F (18°C to 29°C), away from cold drafts and air conditioning vents. Light pruning keeps the shape fuller and can highlight the woody trunks.
Common Issues
Sudden leaf drop often follows a dry spell, cold draft, or soggy soil. Brown tips usually mean low humidity.
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.
Common Varieties
Polyscias fruticosa 'Elegans' (Compact Ming)
A compact, densely branched form with finely dissected bright green leaflets that create a lacy texture.
Parsley (Curly leaves)
Dense dark green foliage with finely divided, heavily crinkled leaves that look a bit like curly parsley.