Ming aralia (Polyscias fruticosa)—also called parsley aralia or Chinese aralia—is an elegant, versatile houseplant with distinctive lacy foliage and architectural branching. Native to India and Polynesia, it adapts well to indoor conditions with basic care.
Plant Profile
- Family: Araliaceae
- Type: Evergreen shrub; can be trained as bonsai
- Height: 3-8 feet indoors; variable by cultivar
- Leaves: Trifoliate (3 leaflets); obovate or lanceolate; glossy
- Branching: Symmetrical tiers; upright stems
- Flowers: Small, inconspicuous; summer; rarely indoors
- Propagation: Stem cuttings, root cuttings, air layering, suckers
Growing Requirements
Soil
- Mix: 1 part each: garden soil, humus/compost, perlite or coarse sand
- Add: Small amount lime to counter acidity
- Key: Loose, well-drained, nutrient-rich; never waterlogged or bone dry
Light
- Ideal: Bright, indirect (near east/west window)
- Tolerates: Medium light (slower growth)
- Supplement: Artificial light in winter/dark climates
- Avoid: Direct sun (leaf scorch)
Temperature
- Range: 60-85°F (16-29°C)
- Minimum: 60°F—below causes leaf drop/discoloration
- Avoid: Cold drafts, heating vents, temperature swings
Humidity
- Preferred: Medium to high (50%+)
- Low humidity signs: Yellowing, leaf drop
- Solutions: Humidifier, pebble tray, grouping plants, misting
Watering
- Rule: Keep top soil moist between waterings
- Frequency: Regular in active growth (spring-fall); reduced in winter
- Method: Thorough soak; drain completely
- Caution: Overwatering → root rot
Fertilizing
- Active season: Balanced liquid 3× (spring, summer, fall)
- Winter: Compost top-dressing only
- Type: N-P-K balanced with micronutrients
Maintenance
Repotting
- When: Summer; roots fill pot
- Method: Gently loosen; same or slightly larger pot
- Care: Delicate roots—handle minimally
Pruning
- Timing: Spring
- Purpose: Shape; control size; encourage branching
- Bonsai: Regular pinching; wire training; don't overwater/overfeed
Pests
- Common: Spider mites, aphids, mealybugs, scale (rare)
- Treatment: Insecticidal soap, neem oil; identify first
- Prevention: Inspect regularly; quarantine new plants
Common Problems
- Leaf staining: Dry soil + cold temps
- Leaf drop: Cold drafts, low humidity, over/under watering
- Yellowing: Nutrient deficiency, root issues, low light
Bonsai Training
- Vertical stem + tiered branching = natural bonsai form
- Same care as standard; less water/fertilizer
- Spring pruning for shape
- Slow growing—patience required
