Ming Aralia (Polyscias scutellaria), often called Shield Aralia or Balfour Aralia, is a striking evergreen shrub with broad, rounded, scalloped leaves of glossy green, sometimes cream-margined. Its dense, upright form and bold foliage give a lush, tropical presence to interiors and shaded gardens. Slow-growing and long-lived, it develops attractive woody stems and is popular for bonsai and ornamental screening. It thrives in warmth, humidity and bright indirect light, making it well-suited to Indian homes when protected from cold. With steady care it becomes a handsome, sculptural accent for living rooms, lobbies and patios.
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, broad scalloped glossy green |
| Flower colour |
Greenish-white (rare indoors) |
| Flower season |
Summer (rarely indoors) |
| Climate zone |
Tropical to subtropical |
Care guide
| Sunlight |
Bright indirect light; 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 and trim to maintain shape and 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
Grown as a lush indoor accent, screening shrub and bonsai subject; also suits shaded tropical garden plantings.
Growing tips
In India keep humidity up during dry spells and shield it from cold drafts and direct afternoon sun to prevent leaf drop and scorch.