Polyscias ferruginea (Hiern) Harms
Polyscias ferruginea (Hiern) Harms, also known as Rusty leaf aralia, is a flowering plant belonging to the Araliaceae family. It is native to tropical Africa, specifically Cameroon, Gabon, and Liberia.
Common Names
Aside from Rusty leaf aralia, Polyscias ferruginea may be known by other common names depending on the region. In Cameroon, it is called bois-coupe or gouaroum; in Gabon, it is known as pue, or by the local name engu; and in Liberia, it goes by the name wungay.
Uses
Polyscias ferruginea is primarily cultivated as an ornamental plant due to its attractive, deeply-lobed leaves and overall bushy appearance. In Cameroon, the plant is also reportedly used as a substitute for wicker in the production of household items such as baskets and mats. Medicinally, the leaves of Polyscias ferruginea are believed to have antibacterial and antifungal properties and are used in traditional medicine to treat skin infections, wounds, and fever.
General Appearance
Polyscias ferruginea is a small to medium-sized tree, growing up to 6-10 meters in height. Its leaves are glossy and large, measuring around 20-30 cm in length and are deeply lobed with a rusty, reddish color on the underside. The tree's small white or yellowish flowers are arranged in small umbels that eventually give way to small, fleshy fruits that turn from green to black as they mature.
Overall, the Polyscias ferruginea is a fascinating and useful plant that adds a touch of tropical flair to its surroundings as an ornamental plant or contributes to traditional medicinal practice with its antibacterial and antifungal properties.
Light Requirements
Polyscias Ferruginea plants thrive best in medium to bright indirect light. This includes placing the plant in a location with exposure to filtered sunlight or near a north-facing window. While it can withstand some direct sunlight, it is crucial to prevent exposing it to full sun as it could lead to scorching or browning of the leaves.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Polyscias Ferruginea growth is between 18°C to 24°C (65°F to 75°F). It can tolerate temperatures lower or higher than this range, but the plant may experience slower growth and become susceptible to pests and diseases. During winter, keep the plant away from cold drafts as this could lead to leaf loss.
Soil Requirements
Polyscias Ferruginea requires well-draining, moist soil. You can use a potting mix made from equal parts of peat, perlite, and sand. It would help if you also added organic matter like leaf mold, compost, or mulch to enhance soil fertility. Avoid using heavy or clay soil as it can retain excess water, leading to root rot. Another essential factor in soils is the pH. These plants prefer slightly acidic soil, with a pH range between 6 to 6.5.
Cultivation Methods
Polyscias ferruginea can be grown as an indoor or outdoor plant. It prefers partly shaded areas with well-drained soils. For indoor cultivation, it is recommended to place the plant near a window that receives indirect sunlight. Outdoor plants should be protected from strong winds and heavy rainfall.
Watering Needs
Polyscias ferruginea requires moderate watering. It is recommended to water the plant when the topsoil feels dry to the touch. Ensure you do not overwater or underwater the plant as both can lead to its death. If you plan to grow the plant in a pot, ensure there are proper drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
Fertilization
Polyscias ferruginea benefits from regular fertilization. You can use a balanced fertilizer with a ratio of 10-10-10 to provide essential nutrients to the plant. Fertilize the plant once every two weeks during the growing season and reduce the frequency during the dormant period.
Pruning
Pruning is essential to maintain the shape and size of Polyscias ferruginea. You should prune the plant in early spring to encourage growth. Cut off any dead or yellowing leaves and branches to reduce the risk of infections. Use a sharp pair of shears to cut back to the desired length.
Propagation of Polyscias ferruginea (Hiern) Harms
Polyscias ferruginea (Hiern) Harms, also known as the rusty leaf fig, is a popular ornamental plant. Propagation of this plant can be done through various methods:
Seed propagation
Seeds of Polyscias ferruginea can be collected from mature fruits and propagated in a well-draining potting mix. The seeds should be sown on the surface of the soil and covered with a thin layer of soil. The pot should be kept in a warm, humid place until the seeds germinate.
Cuttings
Cuttings of Polyscias ferruginea can be taken from a healthy plant. The cuttings should be about 10-15cm long and should have at least two nodes. Remove the bottom leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Place the cutting in a pot with a well-draining, moist potting mix. Cover the pot with a plastic bag to maintain humidity and keep it in a warm, bright spot. The cutting should develop roots in about 4-6 weeks.
Air layering
Air layering is another way to propagate Polyscias ferruginea. In air layering, you need to make an incision in the stem and gently scrape the bark off. Apply rooting hormone to the exposed area and wrap it with moist sphagnum moss. Cover the moss with plastic wrap and secure it in place with a twist tie or string. After roots develop, cut below the rooting medium and pot the new plant.
Disease and Pest Management for Polyscias Ferruginea (Hiern) Harms
Polyscias ferruginea, also known as Ming Aralia, is a popular indoor plant that is admired for its dark green foliage and bushy growth. Like all plants, it is susceptible to diseases and pests that can damage its growth and appearance. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Leaf Spot - This fungal infection appears as brown or black spots on the leaves of the plant. To manage this disease, remove the infected leaves and improve the air circulation around the plant. Water the plant at the base, avoiding wetting the foliage.
Root Rot - This disease occurs in plants grown in poorly-drained soil. It is caused by fungi that attack the roots, causing them to rot. To manage this disease, ensure the plant is grown in well-draining soil and avoid overwatering the plant.
Pests
Spider Mites - These pests are tiny reddish-brown insects that often appear in large numbers on the undersides of the leaves. They suck sap from the plant, causing the leaves to turn yellow and dry up. To manage spider mites, wash the leaves with a mild soap solution and ensure the plant is well-hydrated.
Mealybugs - These pests are white-colored insects that often appear in cotton-like masses on the plant. They suck sap from the plant, causing the leaves to turn yellow. To manage mealybugs, remove them with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol and ensure the plant is well-hydrated.
Scale Insects - These pests appear as small brown or white bumps on the leaves and stems of the plant. They suck sap from the plant, causing the leaves to turn yellow. To manage scale insects, remove them with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol and increase the humidity around the plant.
By following these disease and pest management practices, you can ensure that your Polyscias ferruginea thrives and grows healthy.
