Overview
Polyscias kikuyuensis Summerh. is a variety of the Polyscias genus and is a small tree native to Kenya.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as the Kikuyu Aralia or Kikuyu Umbrella Tree.
Appearance
The Kikuyu Aralia is a small, deciduous tree that grows up to 6 meters tall. The plant has a single trunk that branches out into a beautiful, rounded crown. The leaves are deep green and shiny, and they are oval-shaped, measuring up to 10 cm in length. The tree produces small yellow or white flowers that are followed by small, round, brown seeds.
Uses
The Kikuyu Aralia is commonly used as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks. Due to its small size, it is also suitable for growing in pots for indoors or patios. The plant is drought-resistant and requires minimal maintenance, making it easy to grow. Its leaves are used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including digestive problems and headaches.
Light Requirements
Polyscias kikuyuensis Summerh. typically prefers bright but indirect light. It can also tolerate low light conditions but will grow slower in such situations. The plant should be shielded from direct sunlight as it can cause leaf scorching and damage.
Temperature Requirements
The adequate temperature range for the growth of Polyscias kikuyuensis Summerh. is between 15°C and 26°C. The plant is highly sensitive to cold temperatures and needs to be protected from frost. A steady, warm temperature is required for optimal growth.
Soil Requirements
Polyscias kikuyuensis Summerh. grows well in well-draining, nutrient-rich soil with sufficient organic matter. The optimal pH range for the plant is between 6.0 and 6.5. The soil should be kept consistently moist, but not waterlogged, and should allow for proper drainage.
Cultivation Methods
Polyscias kikuyuensis Summerh. is an evergreen shrub that prefers a warm and humid environment. It thrives well when grown in soil that is rich in nutrients and well-draining. You can plant it in a pot or in the ground, ensuring that the soil is not waterlogged. The ideal location for planting the shrub is where it receives indirect light or partial shade.
Watering Needs
The plant requires regular watering to maintain its health and vitality. However, it is essential to avoid overwatering as it may lead to root rot. You can water the plant twice a week during summer but reduce the frequency to once a week during winter. This helps to prevent overwatering, which can be deadly for the plant.
Fertilization
To promote healthy growth, it is crucial to fertilize the plant regularly. You can use a balanced liquid fertilizer every two weeks during spring and summer. During winter, you can reduce the frequency to once per month. However, it is essential to avoid over-fertilizing as it can lead to nutrient burn, which can also be harmful to the plant.
Pruning
Periodic pruning is necessary to maintain the compactness of the plant and its aesthetic value. You can trim the plant once per year during spring. You can cut back up to one-third of the branches to stimulate new growth and encourage bushiness. Ensure that you use sterilized pruning shears to prevent the spread of diseases and pests.
Propagation of Polyscias kikuyuensis Summerh.
Polyscias kikuyuensis Summerh. is a rare evergreen shrub native to Kenya, Africa. It has gained popularity among gardeners and plant enthusiasts due to its attractive appearance and low maintenance requirements. Propagation of Polyscias kikuyuensis Summerh. can be done through various methods including, seed propagation, stem cuttings, and air layering.
Seed propagation
The seeds of Polyscias kikuyuensis Summerh. are a viable method for propagation. The seeds can be collected during the fruiting season of the plant. The collected seeds should be cleaned and soaked in warm water for 24 hours. After soaking, the seeds should be placed in a well-drained container filled with soil mixed with sand. The container should be kept in a shaded area with a temperature of 25°C to 30°C. Germination of seeds can take up to six weeks.
Stem cuttings
Polyscias kikuyuensis Summerh. can be propagated through stem cuttings. Select a healthy stem with four to six leaves and make a clean cut using a sterile scalpel. Remove all the leaves on the lower part of the stem, leaving only the top leaves intact. Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone powder and plant it in a well-drained container filled with soil mixed with sand. Place the container in a shaded area with a temperature of 25°C to 30°C and keep the soil moist. The cutting will root and start producing new leaves within four weeks.
Air layering
Air layering is another propagation method for Polyscias kikuyuensis Summerh. It involves making a partial cut on a healthy stem and wrapping it with moist sphagnum moss. Cover the moss with a plastic wrap and secure it with tape. The moss should be kept moist by watering it regularly. After two to three months, roots will emerge from the cut area of the stem. Cut the rooted stem off from the mother plant and plant it in a well-drained container filled with soil mixed with sand. Provide the newly planted stem with a shaded area and regular watering.
Disease and Pest Management for Polyscias kikuyuensis Summerh.
Polyscias kikuyuensis Summerh., commonly known as Kikuyu Aralia, is a tropical plant that grows well in warm, humid climates. While it is generally a healthy plant, it is still susceptible to a variety of diseases and pests. To keep your plant healthy, it's important to know what to look for and how to manage any issues that may arise.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affects Polyscias kikuyuensis is leaf spot. This is a fungal disease that causes dark spots or blotches on the leaves. If left untreated, it can cause the leaves to wither and die. To manage leaf spot, remove any infected leaves and make sure the plant is getting enough light and air circulation. You may also want to treat the plant with a fungicide to prevent the fungus from spreading.
Another disease that may affect Kikuyu Aralia is root rot. This is caused by overwatering or poor drainage, and it can cause the roots to rot and the plant to wilt. To manage root rot, make sure the plant is getting proper drainage and only water it when the top inch of soil is dry.
Common Pests
Kikuyu Aralia is also susceptible to several pests, including spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. Spider mites are tiny pests that suck the sap from the leaves, causing them to turn yellow and fall off. Mealybugs and scale insects both produce a sticky substance that can attract ants and other pests. To manage these pests, you can try wiping the leaves with a damp cloth or treating the plant with an insecticidal soap or oil.
If you notice any signs of disease or pests on your Polyscias kikuyuensis Summerh., it's important to act quickly to prevent the issue from spreading. By keeping your plant healthy and treating any issues promptly, you can enjoy a beautiful, thriving Kikuyu Aralia for years to come.
