This plant's featherlike, mid-green leaves grow in a multitude out of its trunk, surrounding the corded bark with lush foliage. This plant's eventual size can be between 1-2m in height, though it responds well to pruning to keep it a good shape for your home, and to stop it growing leggy. It needs a warm, moist area in your home, and can do well in a variety of light levels, though somewhere bright away from direct sun will be best. If you're after a statement plant, this could be the one to fill that gap.
Scientific Name
Polyscias fruticosa 'Hawaiiana Ming' (many-umbrella'd shrubby plant, cultivar: Hawaiiana Ming)
Common Name
Ming Aralia
Origin
Native to tropical areas from India to Polynesia
Light
Direct sun can scorch the plant but it will still prefer bright indirect light. It can adapt to shade but will grow slower and need less water.
Water
Water when the top layer of soil has dried out; if in doubt, it's better to be slightly too dry than slightly too wet so don't worry about leaving it a couple of extra days.
Humidity
A spot with higher humidity, like a kitchen or bathroom, will be best suited for this plant, If the air is too dry it will start to drop leaves- if this happens, it may benefit from the introduction of a humidity tray.
Soil
Use a well-draining mix, with components like coir, bark and sand. One designed for ficus will work well. Repot every few years in spring as the plant grows.
Food
Feed every four waters in the growing season, reduce to every six in autumn and winter.
Temperature
Your Ming Aralia can be picky with temperature; it likes to be between 18-29°C all year round.
Pet-safe
No, this plant is toxic to pets and small humans.
Sprouts Top Tips
Prune this plant to help it keep its shape; pinching out leaves will encourage it to branch. It will drop leaves over winter- don't worry too much as this is normal. Admire the trunk until spring rolls back round!
