Are you looking for a unique and attractive houseplant that is low maintenance? Look no further than the Ming Aralia (Polyscias fruticosa). This evergreen plant is native to India and is known for its delicate, fern-like foliage and small, white flowers. With proper care, this tropical beauty can bring life to any home or office.

Traditional use

Polyscias fruticosa leaves are used as a tonic, anti-inflammatory, antitoxin, and antibacterial ointment in Asian countries. They have also been shown to aid digestion. The root is also used to treat neuralgia and rheumatic pains, as well as as a diuretic, febrifuge, and anti-dysentery. Polyscias fruticosa is primarily used as an ornamental plant and a spice in addition to medicine.

Let’s take a closer look at how to grow and care for this gorgeous plant.

Light Requirements

When considering this plant for home decor, keep in mind that it requires full sun to partial shade or high interior lighting. In the glasshouse, the soil mixture should be two parts peat moss, two parts loam, and one part sand or perlite.

The Ming Aralia enjoys bright, indirect light. A south-facing window is ideal, as long as it does not receive direct sunlight. If possible, provide the plant with some morning sun; however, it should be protected from intense midday and afternoon sun. If your home or office does not have enough natural light, artificial lighting such as LED grow lights can be used to supplement your plants’ needs.

Watering Needs

The Ming Aralia prefers soil that is slightly moist but not soggy. It is sensitive to overwatering, so it is important to allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering. You can determine when your plant needs water by checking the top 2-3 inches of soil for moisture; if it feels dry, go ahead and give your plant a drink! When watering your Ming Aralia be sure to remove any excess water from the drainage tray so that the roots don’t become waterlogged

Temperature Requirements

The Ming Aralia is sensitive to extreme temperatures, so it should be protected from drafts and extreme heat or cold. Ideally, keep your plant in an area where temperatures range from 65°F – 80°F (18°C – 26°C). During winter months you may want to move your plant away from drafts or radiators that could damage its delicate leaves. Additionally, you may want to mist your Ming Aralia regularly during very cold weather in order to increase humidity levels in its environment.

Fertilization Needs

The Ming Aralia can be fertilized every two to three weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer diluted in water at half strength according to package instructions. Be sure not to overfertilize as this can burn roots and cause leaf discoloration or wilting of foliage. During winter months you should cease fertilizing altogether; once spring arrives you can resume normal fertilizing practices if desired for optimal growth of your plant’s foliage.

Common Plant problems

• Yellowing leaves: Usually caused by overwatering or underwatering the plant, or by using water that is too cold. To fix this problem, adjust your watering schedule and make sure to use room temperature water.
• Wilting leaves: A sign of underwatering or root rot. To fix this problem, check the soil moisture level and water the plant if needed. If the plant has root rot, it may need to be repotted in fresh soil.
• Brown, crispy leaves: Caused by insufficient moisture or dry air. To fix this problem, increase the humidity around the plant by misting it regularly or using a humidifier. You may also need to adjust your watering schedule.
• Stunted growth: Insufficient light, incorrect watering, or poor soil quality. To fix this problem, make sure the plant is getting enough light and water it regularly. You may also need to repot the plant in fresh soil.
• Pest infestations: Ming Aralia plants may be prone to pests such as spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids. To control these pests, you can try using a natural pest control method such as neem oil or horticultural soap.

The Ming Aralia (Polyscias fruticosa) is a beautiful addition to any home or office space that requires minimal effort on behalf of the gardener yet offers maximum rewards in terms of greenery, beauty and aesthetic appeal! This tropical shrub loves bright indirect light combined with regular watering sessions allowing for slight drying between each session as well as moderate temperatures. With proper care and attention paid towards these tips you’ll surely have success in cultivating your own personal edition of this magnificent ornamental house plant.