The Aralia Fabian, also known by its scientific name Polyscias scutellaria ‘Fabian’, is a distinctive houseplant known for its unique aesthetic. It offers a compact, tree-like appearance, making it a popular choice for indoor spaces. Its striking foliage and upright growth habit contribute to its appeal.
Key Characteristics of Aralia Fabian
The Aralia Fabian is recognized for its thick, rounded, glossy leaves, which are typically deep green on top with a contrasting maroon or purplish underside. The plant exhibits a compact, tree-like growth habit, often developing a sturdy, woody trunk. Native to the Pacific Islands, its tropical origin influences its care requirements. Indoors, the Aralia Fabian typically grows to about 4 to 5 feet.
Comprehensive Care for Your Aralia Fabian
Light Needs
Aralia Fabian thrives in bright, indirect light. Placing the plant near a window with filtered sunlight provides ideal illumination. Direct, harsh midday sunlight can scorch its leaves, causing browning. Insufficient light can lead to leaf drop or lanky growth. Rotating the plant regularly helps ensure even growth.
Watering Schedule
Moderate watering is appropriate for the Aralia Fabian; allow the top inch or two of soil to dry out between waterings. To check moisture levels, insert a finger into the soil; water only when it feels slightly dry. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is safer to underwater slightly. Adjust watering frequency based on the season, as the plant needs more water during the warmer growing season (spring and summer) and less in cooler months.
Ideal Soil Mix
Aralia Fabian requires a well-draining, well-aerated potting mix to prevent waterlogging and root rot. Incorporating amendments like perlite or coco coir can improve drainage. An acidic, nutrient-rich soil mix is beneficial for its growth.
Temperature and Humidity
Maintain a moderate room temperature between 65°F and 75°F (18°C and 24°C) for Aralia Fabian. This tropical plant appreciates average to slightly higher humidity. Avoid placing the plant near cold drafts or air conditioning vents, as sudden temperature fluctuations can cause leaf drop.
Fertilization Guide
During the active growing season (spring and summer), Aralia Fabian benefits from regular fertilization. Apply a balanced, water-soluble liquid fertilizer, diluted to half the recommended strength, every one to two months. Reduce or withhold fertilization entirely during the fall and winter months when the plant’s growth slows.
Troubleshooting Common Aralia Fabian Problems
Aralia Fabian can experience leaf drop due to sudden environmental changes, cold drafts, or inconsistent watering. Ensuring a stable environment and consistent watering can help. Yellowing leaves often indicate overwatering or poor drainage, while curling or yellowing leaves and lower leaf loss can signal underwatering.
Aralia Fabian is generally resistant to pests, but can occasionally attract spider mites and mealybugs. Spider mites may appear as fine webbing or stippled leaves. Mealybugs appear as fluffy white clusters, often in leaf joints. Treat infestations with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
Propagating and Pruning Your Aralia Fabian
Aralia Fabian can be propagated through stem cuttings. Take a healthy stem cutting, ideally 4-10 inches long, remove the lower leaves, and place the cut end in moist potting soil or water.
Pruning helps maintain the plant’s shape, encourages bushier growth, and removes leggy stems or dead leaves. It is best done in the spring or early summer during the active growing season. Use clean, sharp shears and avoid removing more than one-third of the plant’s foliage at a time to prevent shock. Pinching back the tips can also promote denser foliage.
Repotting Aralia Fabian
Repotting an Aralia Fabian is generally needed every two to three years or when the plant shows signs of being root-bound. Indicators include roots circling the pot, pushing through the soil surface, or emerging from drainage holes. Stunted growth can also suggest the plant has outgrown its container.
The ideal time for repotting is in the spring, before the active growth phase. Choose a new pot only 1 to 2 inches wider in diameter than the current one to prevent the soil from remaining too wet. Use a well-draining indoor potting mix, ensuring the plant is placed at the same depth as before. Water thoroughly after repotting.