How to Grow Polyscias
Polyscias fruticosa
Polyscias (Ming aralia) is a striking slow-growing tropical houseplant with feathery, finely cut foliage. It needs bright indirect light, consistent warmth above 16°C, and high humidity to stay looking its best. The single most important rule is stability — avoid moving it, cold draughts, or sudden temperature swings, as any of these cause dramatic leaf drop. Water when the top 2-3 cm of soil feel dry and feed monthly in spring and summer. Pet toxicity has not been evaluated by ASPCA; keep out of reach as a precaution.
Yearly Lifecycle
Care Essentials
Feed monthly with a balanced liquid fertiliser at half strength from spring through summer. Withhold feeding entirely in autumn and winter when growth slows.
Watch For
- Spider mites
- Scale insects
- Mealybug
- Root rot from overwatering
- Leaf drop from cold draughts or sudden temperature changes
Care Requirements
Light
Bright indirect light
Place in bright indirect light away from direct sun, which scorches the delicate foliage. An east-facing windowsill or a metre back from a south-facing window works well.
Watering
Allow top 2-3 cm to dry between waterings
Water when the top 2-3 cm of compost feel dry, then water thoroughly and allow to drain. Never let the pot sit in water as root rot sets in quickly.
Fertilizing
Monthly at half strength, spring to summer
Apply a balanced liquid fertiliser at half the recommended strength once a month from spring through summer. Stop feeding in autumn and winter.
Humidity
High humidity essential, aim for 50-70%
Mist the foliage regularly, stand the pot on a pebble tray with water, or use a humidifier. Low humidity causes leaf drop and crispy leaf edges.
Pruning
Light shaping only in spring
Trim stray stems in spring to maintain shape. Polyscias recovers slowly from hard pruning so keep cuts minimal.
