Polyscias Scutellaria (Burm. f.) Fosberg: Origin and Common Names
Polyscias scutellaria (Burm. f.) Fosberg, commonly known as the Shield Aralia, is a species of Polyscias plant that belongs to the Araliaceae family. It is native to Southeast Asia, including countries such as Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines. The plant usually grows in lowland forests and has been introduced to other parts of the world.
The plant is known by several other common names, including Variegated Aralia, Ming Aralia, or Paddle Aralia, as it has distinctive flat leaves that resemble a paddle and variegated foliage.
Appearance
The Polyscias scutellaria has broad, glossy, flat leaves that have distinct shapes resembling that of a shield or paddle, hence the names Shield Aralia and Paddle Aralia. The leaves are variegated, with yellow veins contrasting with the dark green leaf blades, making this plant a popular choice for ornamental purposes.
The plant can grow up to 12 feet tall if left unpruned. It has a dense, bushy habit, and the trunk is irregularly shaped, with swollen parts at its base. The plant also produces small greenish-white flowers that form in clusters, followed by tiny bright red berries that ripen in the fall; these berries are edible but not commonly consumed.
Uses
Polyscias scutellaria is often used in landscaping and as an indoor plant. It is a popular choice for those who want to add a touch of tropical flair to their homes or gardens. Its variegated foliage and unique shape make it the perfect accent piece to any interior setting.
The leaves of the plant have also been used in traditional medicine in Southeast Asia to treat various ailments, including wounds and stomach issues. However, there are limited studies to confirm the plant's medicinal properties, and it is not widely used outside of its native regions for this purpose.
In tropical regions, the plant can be grown outdoors in partial shade and is fairly low maintenance, requiring regular watering and occasional pruning to maintain its shape.
Overall, Polyscias scutellaria is a unique and visually striking plant that adds a distinctive touch to any tropical or indoor garden, and has some traditional medicinal uses in its native regions.
Light Requirements
The Polyscias scutellaria plant requires bright, indirect light to thrive. Placing the plant in a location where it can receive filtered sunlight through a sheer curtain or shaded by a tree is ideal. Direct sunlight can damage the foliage. If the light is too low, the plant becomes susceptible to pest infestations and may experience stunted growth.
Temperature Requirements
The Polyscias scutellaria plant prefers a warm and humid environment. A temperature range of 65-80°F (18-27°C) is suitable for its growth. Consistent temperature fluctuations lower than 55°F (13°C) or higher than 90°F (32°C) can stunt growth or cause leaf drop. In winter, the plant should be kept away from cold drafts and temperature drops.
Soil Requirements
Polyscias scutellaria plant prefers well-draining soil that retains moisture. A soil pH range of 5.5 to 7.5 is suitable. The soil should be rich in organic matter, with good drainage. A mixture of peat moss, coarse sand, and perlite is ideal. The plant does not thrive in waterlogged soil, leading to root rot. The soil should be moist, but not waterlogged to support the plant's growth.
Cultivation
Polyscias scutellaria, commonly known as the shield aralia, is a tropical plant that can be grown indoors or outdoors. It prefers bright, indirect light and temperatures between 65°F to 85°F. The plant can grow up to six feet tall and three feet wide, so it needs ample space to spread out.
Watering Needs
Shield aralia prefers evenly moist soil. Water your plant thoroughly when the soil feels dry to the touch, but take care not to overwater as it can lead to root rot. Ensure the soil drains well and does not stand in water.
Fertilization
Polyscias scutellaria benefits from monthly fertilization during the growing season, spring to fall. You can use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength. Avoid fertilizing in winter, as the plant's growth slows during this time.
Pruning
Shield aralia can benefit from strategic pruning to control its shape and size. Pruning should be done in early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead or damaged leaves and branches, and cut back any leggy or wayward stems to promote denser growth. You can also pinch back the tips of growing stems to encourage bushier growth.
Propagation of Polyscias scutellaria (Burm. f.) Fosberg
Polyscias scutellaria (Burm. f.) Fosberg, commonly known as the "Shiny leaf Panax," belongs to the family Araliaceae. This plant species is native to tropical regions of Asia and the Pacific, including Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, and the Philippines. It's a favored indoor plant and is often used for decorative purposes in homes and commercial spaces.
Propagation methods
There are two primary methods for propagating Polyscias scutellaria (Burm. f.) Fosberg. The first method is through stem cuttings, and the second method is through seed propagation.
Stem cutting propagation
A stem cutting is a piece of the stem that is cut from the parent plant and used to grow a new plant. Stem cutting propagation is one of the most common methods for propagating Polyscias scutellaria (Burm. f.) Fosberg. Here are the steps to propagate this plant using stem cuttings:
- Begin by selecting a healthy stem of the parent plant that is at least four inches long and has at least two to three leaves.
- Cut the stem with a sharp, sterilized blade, making sure you cut just below a node or a leaf joint.
- Remove the lower leaves of the stem, leaving only the top two or three leaves intact.
- Dip the bottom of the stem cutting in rooting hormone powder to encourage root growth.
- Place the cutting in a pot filled with a well-draining potting mix. Water the cutting and place it in a bright, indirect light spot.
- Maintain a consistent level of moisture in the soil and avoid overwatering.
- After two to three weeks, check if the cutting has rooted by tugging gently on it. If resistance is felt, roots have started to form, and you can start treating the plant as you would a mature Polyscias scutellaria (Burm. f.) Fosberg plant.
Seed propagation
Seed propagation is another method to propagate Polyscias scutellaria (Burm. f.) Fosberg. Here are the steps:
- Obtain fresh seeds from a reliable dealer or harvest seeds from mature plants if available.
- Fill a seed tray with a well-draining potting mix and sprinkle the seeds over it, making sure there is space between each seed.
- Cover the seeds with a thin layer of the potting mix.
- Water the seeds well and place the tray in a warm, bright, and humid spot.
- Maintain a consistent level of moisture in the soil and avoid overwatering.
- After two to three weeks, the seeds will germinate. Once the seedlings grow to be a few inches tall, you can transplant them into individual pots or to a larger container.
Disease and Pest Management for Polyscias scutellaria (Burm. f.) Fosberg
Polyscias scutellaria is a popular foliage plant that is grown for its ornamental value. While the plant is generally hardy and disease-resistant, it is still susceptible to certain pests and diseases that can affect its growth and appearance. Here are some of the most common diseases and pests that can affect Polyscias scutellaria, along with some suggestions for their management.
Diseases
Polyscias scutellaria is susceptible to a few diseases, including:
Leaf Spot
Leaf spot is a common fungal disease that affects the leaves of Polyscias scutellaria, causing spots or lesions to develop. The affected leaves may turn yellow and drop prematurely, which can hamper the growth of the plant. To manage the disease, it is important to remove the affected leaves and provide good air circulation around the plant. Fungicides may be used as a preventive measure.
Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew is another fungal disease that affects the plant, causing a white, powdery substance to appear on the leaves. The affected leaves may become distorted or stunted, and the growth of the plant may be affected. The disease can be managed by increasing air circulation around the plant, avoiding overhead watering, and using fungicides as a preventive measure.
Pests
Polyscias scutellaria is also susceptible to pests such as:
Spider Mites
Spider mites are common pests that can affect the plant, causing the leaves to turn yellow and fall prematurely. They are tiny and difficult to detect, but their presence can be detected by the fine webbing they leave on the leaves. To manage the pest, it is important to wipe the leaves with a damp cloth to remove the mites and their webbing. Insecticidal soap can also be used as a preventive measure.
Scale Insects
Scale insects are another common pest that can affect the plant, causing the leaves to turn yellow and fall off. They are small and difficult to detect, but their presence can be detected by the waxy coating they leave on the stems and leaves. To manage the pest, it is important to remove the affected leaves and stems and treat the plant with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
By being vigilant and proactive in the management of these pests and diseases, you can ensure that your Polyscias scutellaria grow healthy and lush.
