Aralia (Polyscias fruticosa), commonly called Ming Aralia or Parsley Aralia, is a graceful evergreen shrub prized for its finely divided, fern-like glossy leaves on slender upright stems. Its airy, lacy foliage gives an oriental, sculptural look that suits both interiors and shaded gardens, and it is widely used for bonsai and ornamental hedging. Slow-growing and long-lived, it forms an elegant, layered silhouette over time. It prefers warmth, humidity and bright indirect light, rewarding steady care with lush, refined greenery. A favourite accent plant for living rooms, lobbies and tropical garden settings.
Specifications
| Family |
Araliaceae |
| Native region |
Tropical Asia and Pacific Islands |
| Mature height |
1-2 m indoors |
| Mature spread |
0.5-1 m |
| Growth rate |
Slow to moderate |
| Foliage |
Evergreen, finely divided glossy green |
| Flower colour |
Greenish-white (rare indoors) |
| Flower season |
Summer (rarely indoors) |
| Climate zone |
Tropical to subtropical |
Care guide
| Sunlight |
Bright indirect light; some filtered morning sun |
| Watering |
Keep lightly moist; let top soil dry between waterings |
| Soil / mix |
Rich, well-draining potting mix |
| Temperature |
18-30 C; protect from cold drafts |
| Humidity |
High; mist regularly |
| Fertilizer |
Balanced feed every 3-4 weeks in growing season |
| Pruning |
Pinch tips to shape and encourage bushiness |
| Repotting |
Every 2-3 years; likes being slightly root-bound |
| Propagation |
Stem cuttings |
| Pests & problems |
Spider mites, mealybugs, scale and aphids |
| Toxicity / safety |
Mildly toxic if ingested |
| Difficulty |
Moderate |
Uses
Used as an elegant indoor accent, screening shrub and a popular subject for bonsai; also planted in shaded tropical gardens.
Growing tips
In India maintain humidity during dry months by misting or grouping plants, and avoid sudden moves or cold drafts which cause leaf drop.