Ming Aralia Plant Care

Polyscias fruticosa Harms

Polyscias fruticosa, or Ming aralia, is a perennial dicot evergreen shrub or dwarf tree in the ivy family Araliaceae, found in tropical and subtropical regions. The plant grows fairly slowly, up to 3–5 metres (9.8–16.4 ft) in height.

💨Air purifying
Water

Every 7–10 days

Light

Bright indirect light

Temp

65–80°F

Humidity

50–70%

What Is the Ming Aralia?

Ming Aralia (Polyscias fruticosa) belongs to the Araliaceae family within the Polyscias genus. Ming Aralia is native to tropical and subtropical regions. Ming Aralia is also known as Aralia, Parsley Aralia, Shredded Umbrella.

Ming Aralia displays an upright, bushy shrub growth habit, reaching up to 4 inches tall with a spread of approximately 3 inches. Ming Aralia produces small inconspicuous flowers.

Leaf size: approximately 6 inches.

How Often Should You Water a Ming Aralia?

Polyscias fruticosa requires watering every 7–10 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.

Watering Frequency

Every 7–10 days

Let soil partially dry between waterings

What Light Does the Ming Aralia Need?

Ming Aralia thrives in bright indirect light light conditions. The optimal light range is 100–500 lux. Avoid placing Ming Aralia in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.

Light Requirement

Bright indirect light

100–500 lux

What Temperature and Humidity Does the Ming Aralia Prefer?

Polyscias fruticosa grows best at temperatures between 65°F and 80°F. Ming Aralia prefers humidity levels of 50–70%. A pebble tray or humidifier helps maintain adequate moisture around the plant.

Temperature

65–80°F

Humidity

50–70%

What Soil Mix Works Best for a Ming Aralia?

Well-draining potting mix rich in organic matter. Good drainage is essential for Ming Aralia to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

How Do You Repot a Ming Aralia?

Repot every 1-2 years in spring. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.

How Do You Propagate a Ming Aralia?

Ming Aralia can be propagated through stem cuttings, air layering. Similar propagation techniques also apply to balfour aralia plant care, which shares the same genus.

Fertilizing

Every 4 months

During the growing season

Is the Ming Aralia Toxic to Pets and Children?

Non-Toxic

Non-toxic to humans and pets

What Pests and Diseases Affect the Ming Aralia?

Ming Aralia is susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, scale insects. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.

What USDA Hardiness Zone Does the Ming Aralia Need?

Ming Aralia grows outdoors in USDA Zone 10b – 12b. Native to tropical and subtropical regions, Ming Aralia is adapted to warm climates. In cooler regions, grow Ming Aralia as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.

Hardiness Zone

Zone 10b – 12b

Keep exploring plants

Ming Aralia is one of many species covered in the complete plant care and identification guide, which groups plants by genus, attribute, and popularity.

It belongs to the Polyscias genus — compare its care with other Polyscias species on PlantoScan.

Ming Aralia thrives in bright light and direct sun — see other bright-light plants.

More Polyscias Species

Other Polyscias species in PlantoScan's care catalogue share similar watering, light, and soil preferences:

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