Overview of Polyscias stuhlmannii Harms
Polyscias stuhlmannii Harms is a flowering plant species belonging to the family Araliaceae. Also known as the African umbrella tree, this plant has its origin in Africa, particularly in the tropical regions of Tanzania, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and Malawi, where it grows in forests and along riverbanks.
Common Names
In addition to African umbrella tree, Polyscias stuhlmannii is commonly referred to as the Schefflera or the octopus tree. The tree is robust, with a green, glossy foliage that provides ample shade, making it ideal for landscape design and is often grown as an ornamental plant in gardens.
Uses
The African umbrella tree has numerous uses. In traditional medicine, its bark, leaves, and roots have been used to treat various ailments, such as fever, diarrhea, and inflammation. The plant is also valuable in the manufacture of natural insecticides, and its wood is commonly used to make furniture, carvings, and utensils.
Additionally, the African umbrella tree is an excellent air purifier, and its large, vibrant leaves help filter pollutants, making it an excellent indoor plant. The foliage can block out sound and is, therefore, ideal for use in sound-absorbing panels for recording studios.
General Appearance
Polyscias stuhlmannii Harms is a large tree that can grow up to 12 meters tall. The tree has several branches that grow upwards and outwards, and its leaves radiate from the central stalk like the spokes of an umbrella, hence the common name African umbrella tree. The foliage is dense and made up of broad, green, glossy leaves that are up to 30 cm long and 20 cm wide. The tree produces tiny flowers that form clusters and develop into berry-like fruit that is toxic to humans.
The African umbrella tree is an attractive plant, particularly when grown as a potted plant, and its foliage is often trained into various shapes and forms. With proper pruning, Polyscias stuhlmannii can be shaped into stunning topiaries, adding a visual appeal to any space.
Light requirements
Polyscias stuhlmannii Harms is a shade-loving plant and requires partial-to-full shade for optimal growth. Direct sunlight exposure can lead to scorching of leaves and damage to the plant. Therefore, it is ideal to keep the plant indoors or under the partial shade of a canopy.
Temperature requirements
The plant thrives in moderate temperatures that range from 18°C to 27°C (65°F to 80°F). It is crucial to avoid exposing the plant to extreme temperatures, especially during winter periods. The plant cannot survive frost, so it is pertinent to keep it in a warm environment, preferably above 10°C.
Soil requirements
Polyscias stuhlmannii Harms can grow in various types of soil as long as the soil is well-draining and rich in organic matter. Ideally, the soil should have a pH of 5.5 to 7.5. A soil mix that consists of organic peat moss, perlite, and sand in equal proportions is ideal for optimal plant growth. Avoid using soil mixtures that hold too much water, clay soils and compacted soils as this can cause the roots to rot.
Cultivation Methods
Polyscias stuhlmannii Harms, also known as the Ming Aralia, is a tropical plant that grows best in warm and humid environments. It can be grown both indoors and outdoors, but it needs bright but indirect sunlight.
To grow the plant indoors, use a well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand to enhance drainage. The plant prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH level between 6 and 6.5. Keep the plant away from cold drafts and air conditioning units, as they can damage the leaves and stem.
To grow the plant outdoors, select a spot with partial shade and well-draining soil enriched with organic matter. The plant can tolerate full sun, but too much direct sunlight can cause the leaves to burn, leading to stunted growth.
Watering Needs
Polyscias stuhlmannii Harms grows best in moist soil, but it does not like to sit in water. Water the plant regularly, but make sure the top layer of soil is dry before watering. As a general rule, water the plant when the soil feels dry to the touch, but do not overwater.
During the winter months, reduce watering as the plant goes into dormancy. Avoid getting water on the leaves, as it can cause fungal diseases.
Fertilization
The Ming Aralia requires regular feeding with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season. Fertilize the plant every two to four weeks with a well-balanced liquid fertilizer. Reduce fertilization during the winter months, as the plant does not require as much nutrients during this time.
Pruning
Regular pruning helps to maintain the shape and size of the Polyscias stuhlmannii Harms and encourages bushy growth. Prune the plant lightly throughout the growing season, removing any dead or diseased leaves and branches. To encourage branching and growth, pinch back the tips of the stems.
For a more extensive pruning, wait until the winter months when the plant goes into dormancy. Remove any damaged or crossing branches, but avoid taking off more than a third of the plant at one time.
Propagation methods for Polyscias stuhlmannii Harms
Polyscias stuhlmannii Harms is propagated by several methods. The most common methods include:
1. Seed propagation
The plant's seeds can be collected and sowed in seedling trays or pots with a well-draining potting mix that contains perlite, vermiculite, or sand. The seeds should be planted just below the soil surface and kept moist until they germinate. Seed propagation is best done in the spring or early summer when the temperature is warm.
2. Stem cuttings
P. stuhlmannii can be propagated through stem cuttings. Cuttings should be taken from mature stems during the spring or summer months. The cuttings should be about 5-10 cm long and planted in a potting mix. The cuttings should be kept moist and in a well-lit area. Roots should start to develop in approximately four weeks.
3. Air layering
Air layering is another propagation technique that can be used for P. stuhlmannii. A section of the stem is chosen and a small portion of the bark is removed from around the stem. A rooting hormone is applied and a ball of moist sphagnum moss is wrapped around the exposed stem. The moss should be kept moist until roots form. Once the roots appear, the rooted section can be cut from the parent plant and planted in a potting mix.
4. Division
The plant can also be propagated through division. This method involves separating the roots, typically during the spring or fall seasons when the plant is not actively growing. The roots should be teased apart and the individual plant sections can be planted in their own potting mix.
Disease and Pest Management for Polyscias Stuhlmannii Harms
Polyscias stuhlmannii Harms, commonly known as the African parsley tree, is a popular ornamental plant that is native to Africa. While it is relatively easy to grow, it is still susceptible to a range of diseases and pests that can affect its health and appearance. Here are some of the most common problems you may encounter when growing Polyscias stuhlmannii Harms and what you can do to manage them:
Pests
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny, sap-sucking insects that can cause discolored leaves, webbing, and general decline in the plant. To manage spider mites, increase humidity around the plant, prune off and discard any heavily infested leaves, and use a neem oil insecticide to control the remaining population.
Scale Insects: Scale insects are small, immobile insects that attach themselves to the plant's leaf surface and suck sap from the plant. They can cause leaf drop, weakened growth, and severe infestations can even lead to death. To control scale insects, prune off heavily infested parts, wipe away the scales with a damp cloth, apply insecticidal soap, or use a horticultural oil to smother them.
Mealybugs: Mealybugs are another common pest that can affect Polyscias stuhlmannii Harms. They are small, soft-bodied insects that cluster on the stems and leaf undersides and draw sap from the plant. This can cause yellowing, stunted growth, and leaf drop. To manage mealybugs, use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove small infestations, or use a neem oil insecticide to manage large populations.
Diseases
Root Rot: Root rot is a common problem in plants that are overwatered. It causes the roots to become soggy and decay, which leads to wilted yellow leaves, stunted growth, and ultimately, death. To manage root rot, ensure proper drainage in the plant's pot, and reduce watering frequency. If the damage is severe, repot the plant in fresh soil to remove infected roots.
Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that appears as a powdery white coating on the plant's leaves. It can cause the leaves to become distorted, yellow, and eventually drop off. To control powdery mildew, increase air circulation around the plant, maintain proper spacing, and apply a fungicide treatment that contains potassium bicarbonate.
By being vigilant about your plant's health and taking steps to manage pests and disease, you can keep your Polyscias stuhlmannii Harms thriving and looking beautiful for years to come.
