Polyscias fruticosa ‘Elegans’ is a graceful, finely textured foliage plant with delicate, parsley-like leaves that create a soft, airy silhouette. Its lacy, deeply divided foliage grows along upright woody stems, giving it an elegant, almost bonsai-like appearance. Perfect for adding height and lightness to a room, this tropical plant brings subtle structure and movement to indoor spaces.
Scientific Name
Polyscias fruticosa ‘Elegans’ (many-shaded, shrubby)
The genus name Polyscias comes from the Greek “poly” (many) and “skias” (shade), referring to its dense canopy in the wild. The species name fruticosa means “shrubby.” It was first described by Carl Linnaeus and later placed in the genus Polyscias. ‘Elegans’ is a cultivated form selected for its particularly fine, decorative foliage.
Synonyms
Previously classified under Panax fruticosus in older botanical references.
Common Name
Parsley Aralia, Ming Aralia (though true Ming Aralia often refers to a slightly different cultivar)
Origin
Native to India and parts of Southeast Asia, including Malaysia and the Pacific Islands, where it grows in warm, humid, tropical conditions.
Light
Prefers bright, indirect light. It can tolerate moderate light but may become sparse and leggy in darker spots. Avoid harsh direct midday sun, which can scorch the delicate foliage.
Water
Keep the compost lightly moist but never waterlogged. Allow the top 2–3cm of soil to dry before watering again. Reduce watering in autumn and winter, ensuring the plant does not sit in cold, wet compost.
Humidity
Appreciates higher humidity. Ideal for kitchens or bathrooms with good light. If your home is dry, especially in winter, consider using a pebble tray or humidifier.
Soil
Use a well-draining, peat-free houseplant compost with added perlite or bark to maintain airflow around the roots.
Food
Feed every 2–3 waters during the growing season (spring to early autumn) with a balanced liquid fertiliser. Pause feeding through winter.
Temperature
Thrives between 18–26°C. Avoid temperatures below 15°C and protect from cold drafts or sudden temperature changes.
Pet-safe
Considered mildly toxic if ingested, so keep out of reach of pets and children.
Sprouts Top Tips
Parsley Aralia dislikes being moved frequently – once you find a bright, stable position, try to keep it there to prevent leaf drop.
Extras
With regular pruning, this plant can be shaped to maintain a compact, tree-like form. It is often grown as an indoor ornamental “mini tree.”
Did You Know?
In tropical regions, Polyscias fruticosa is sometimes used in traditional herbal practices and can grow into a small tree outdoors, reaching several metres tall in its natural habitat.
