Source: Wikimedia Commons
Ming Aralia
IntermediatePolyscias fruticosa
An evergreen shrub in the ivy family whose finely cut leaflets are arranged in thrice-pinnate leaves, giving a delicate, fern-like look. It is sold as a shaped indoor pot plant with an Asian feel.
About
Ming aralia (Polyscias fruticosa) is an evergreen shrub or small tree in the ivy family (Araliaceae), native to the south-west Pacific. It can reach about 7.5 m in its native habitat, but indoor pot plants stay around 1.8-2.4 m. Its defining feature is the foliage: the leaves are tripinnate, with irregularly lobed, serrated leaflets that together create a finely cut, fern-like effect prized for its Asian look. Pot plants sold as 'Polyscias' also include other species such as P. scutellaria, so check the species name when buying. Cultivars include the dwarf 'Elegans' with parsley-like leaves. It prefers bright indirect light, warmth and medium to high humidity, and dislikes soil that is either too wet or too dry. Indoor plants typically do not flower or fruit. Spider mites appear in dry air and root rot in wet soil, so humidity and watering need attention and it suits growers with some experience. In Japan many plants are sold simply as 'Polyscias', but relatively few are labelled with the species name.
Size of the Ming Aralia
The Ming Aralia grows to About 7.5 m in the wild; 1.8-2.4 m as an indoor pot plant.
Basic Info
Origin
South-west Pacific
Lifespan
Perennial evergreen shrub or tree
Size
About 7.5 m in the wild; 1.8-2.4 m as an indoor pot plant
Temperature
15〜30℃
Humidity
50〜70%
Watering & Fertilizer
Light houseplant feed in the growing season
Growing Tips
Light & Placement
Prefers bright indirect light; avoid strong direct sun.
Watering
Water when the top 5 cm of mix has dried. It dislikes both soggy and bone-dry soil.
Temperature & Overwintering
Likes warmth and dislikes cold. Keep it in a warm room in winter, away from cold windows.
Soil & Repotting
Any well-drained mix will do. To raise humidity, use a humidifier or stand the pot on a tray of wet pebbles.
Propagation
Can be propagated from cuttings.
Pests & Cautions
Watch for aphids, scale, mealybugs, whiteflies and nematodes. Spider mites appear in dry conditions, and root rot in wet soil. Some plants sold as 'Polyscias' are registered varieties of other species, so check the cultivar and its registration status before propagating.
Ming Aralia FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Ming Aralia?
Intermediate. A variety suitable for intermediate growers. Requires some cultivation experience and knowledge of environment management. Pay careful attention to temperature and humidity control.
QHow large does Ming Aralia get?
The mature size of Ming Aralia is About 7.5 m in the wild; 1.8-2.4 m as an indoor pot plant. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Ming Aralia?
Ming Aralia: watering & fertilizer — Light houseplant feed in the growing season. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Ming Aralia?
The price of Ming Aralia varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: September 23, 2026
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team
The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Regulations & Conservation Status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices. Not a designated invasive alien species in Japan, nor a nationally rare species under the Act on Conservation of Endangered Species. As a species it is not subject to registration. In Japan's plant variety database, the registered cultivar 'Starsha' (No. 25492) of this species lapsed in 2024, but the related P. scutellaria has 'Frisbee Kira' (No. 26993), whose rights are still in force.
Sources: Species+ (CITES listing check) / Ministry of the Environment: List of Invasive Alien Species / MAFF Plant Variety Registration Database
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
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