Polyscias care guide
Polyscias
Also known as: Ming aralia, Balfour aralia, Aralia
Pets and children
Caution advised
The leaves and stems are reported to contain saponins that can cause vomiting and diarrhea, and the sap can irritate skin; keep it out of reach and consult a veterinarian (or a doctor, for a child) if eaten.
How often to water Polyscias
- Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
- Every 5 days
- Water thoroughly once the topsoil is dry, as a guide, and empty the saucer since it dislikes soggy soil.
- Autumn (Oct–Nov)
- Every 7 days
- Once it cools, wait about a day or two after the soil dries before watering.
- Winter (Dec–Feb)
- Every 10 days
- Water sparingly roughly three to four days after the soil dries, and mist often in a dry heated room.
Light and placement for Polyscias
Generally best in bright light through a sheer curtain with good air movement; direct sun scorches it, a dark spot makes it shed, and it drops leaves when moved, so settle it in one place.
Overwintering Polyscias
Overwintering guide: 10°C (50°F) or above
Tender: as a guide keep it indoors above about 10°C, bringing it into a warm room early in autumn, away from cold windows and heater drafts, with less water and regular misting for humidity.
Fertilizing and repotting Polyscias
Fertilizer
From May to September, a diluted liquid feed about every two weeks or slow-release fertilizer roughly every two months; do not feed a plant that has just dropped its leaves, and give none from October once it cools.
When to repot
Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
Common problems with Polyscias
- A change of place or a cold draft makes it drop leaves all at once.
- Kept below about 10°C in winter, it sheds its leaves and dies back.
- In dry indoor air spider mites arrive and the leaves turn pale and speckled.
Tips for growing Polyscias
- It likes humidity; frequent misting helps prevent leaf drop and spider mites.
- Leaf shape varies widely by species, and the finer-leaved kinds are more sensitive to dry air.
- Cutting back long stems in spring brings side shoots and a fuller plant.
These are AI-generated general guidelines. They vary with the variety, the placement and the pot size. For effects on pets or children, consult a veterinarian or a doctor.
Keep your plant log going
Greenery is a free app that keeps your plant care going, with watering reminders and photo records. Available on iOS and Android.
