Polyscias Fabian – Aralia Fabian

Polyscias are versatile, small, indoor, branching trees. They grow in a compact, upright manner, making them suitable even in smaller spaces. Their thick, woody trunks is their main appeal. Each plant is unique as the large, rounded leaves can develop anywhere along the length of the branches, exposing different degrees of woody stem on each plant. They are often called Dinner Plate Aralia due to their round, flat leaf shape. Polyscias translates from the Greek as “many” and “shade”, a reference to their abundant foliage.

Polyscias scutellaria Fabian has large, scalloped, dark green, glossy leaves that curve outwards slightly. They are deeply veined and tinged purple underneath.

Horty Hints

Little and often! This plant prefers being slightly underwatered rather than being overwatered. Too much water will cause rapid leaf drop and root rot. Water when the top 2 inches of soil has dried out.

Prune to maintain shape and develop thicker trunks. Pinch out leaves to encourage branching.

Lower leaves can drop in the colder seasons. This is natural and has the added benefit of revealing more of the attractive trunk feature.

Light

Polyscias Fabian prefers moderate to bright, indirect light but can adapt to shade. Avoid direct sunlight as the harsher rays can scorch the plant.

Watering

Water when the top layer of soil has become dry. Better to keep them slightly dry than to overwater. Use soft water if possible.

Temperature

The Aralia Fabian likes things warm, so anything above 15°C will be fine. Ideally keep the plant in an environment with a temperature of 18 to 29°C.

Humidity

Prefers moderate to high humidity levels. Dry air may cause leaf drop. Mist regularly for best results. Ideal for kitchens and bathrooms.

Feed

Feed once a month with a balanced fertiliser during the growing period.

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Height & Growth Rate

The Aralia Fabian is slow-growing once established with an ultimate indoor height of around 1 to 2 metres.

Toxicity

May be considered toxic. Keep away from pets and children to be on the safe side.

Origin

Polyscias scutellaria Fabian is native to Polynesia.

Please note: images show how this plant may look at various stages of maturity. The size you choose may look different.

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