What is Aralia Fabian?
Aralia Fabian, also known as Fabian Aralia or Polyscias scutellaria ‘Fabian’, is a striking tropical plant prized for its dramatic foliage and architectural form. It features dark green leaves with creamy-white variegation, creating a bold contrast that adds interest to indoor spaces.
How to care for Aralia Fabian stump?
Here’s how to care for your Aralia Fabian stump plant:
Light:
- Bright, indirect sunlight: Aim for at least 6 hours of bright, indirect sunlight per day. This will promote healthy growth and maintain the vibrant green color of the leaves. Avoid strong direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.
Watering:
- Water moderately: Due to the limited root system of a stump plant, you’ll need to be mindful of watering. The key is to avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
- Here’s a simple way to check moisture: Stick your finger into the top inch of soil. If it feels dry to the touch, it’s time to water. Water thoroughly until water runs out the drainage holes, then discard any drainage water to prevent the plant from sitting in water.
- Watering frequency: During the warmer spring and summer months, you may need to water your Fabian stump weekly. In cooler fall and winter months, watering frequency can be reduced significantly.
Soil and Drainage:
- Well-draining soil: A good quality potting mix formulated for aroids or indoor plants works well. You can also create your own mix using:
- Potting soil
- Perlite or orchid bark (for extra drainage)
- Drainage holes: Ensure your pot has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
Humidity:
- Moderate humidity is ideal. While Aralia Fabian can tolerate average household humidity levels, dry air can cause brown, crispy leaf edges. You can increase humidity by:
- Misting the plant occasionally with lukewarm water (avoiding the center of new growth)
- Using a pebble tray filled with water (ensure the pot sits above the water level)
- Grouping your Aralia Fabian with other humidity-loving plants
- Using a humidifier
Fertilizing:
- Fertilize sparingly during the growing season (spring and summer) only. Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength once a month or a slow-release fertilizer formulated for houseplants according to package instructions.
- Avoid overfertilizing, as it can damage the roots.
Temperature:
- Warm temperatures are ideal. Aim for a consistent temperature range between 65-80 degrees Fahrenheit (15-27 degrees Celsius). Protect your plant from cold drafts and sudden temperature fluctuations.
Additional Tips:
- Wipe the leaves occasionally with a damp cloth to remove dust and improve light absorption. Avoid harsh chemicals or cleaning products.
- The Aralia Fabian stump is not a fast-growing plant. Don’t be discouraged if it doesn’t put out new leaves frequently.
- Watch out for common houseplant pests like mealybugs and spider mites. Neem oil solution or insecticidal soap can be used for control if needed.
How to propagate Fabian Aralia?
Propagating Fabian Aralia can be done through stem cuttings. I select a healthy stem with several leaves and make a clean cut just below a leaf node. Then, I remove the lower leaves to expose the node and place the cutting in a container filled with moist potting mix. I keep the cutting in a warm, humid environment with indirect sunlight and mist it regularly to maintain moisture levels. With time, roots will develop, and the cutting will establish itself as a new plant.
Is Aralia Fabian toxic to cats?
As far as I’m aware, Aralia Fabian is not considered toxic to cats. However, it’s always a good idea to monitor pets around plants and consult with a veterinarian if there are any concerns about potential ingestion.
How to prune Fabian Aralia?
Pruning Fabian Aralia is essential for maintaining its shape, promoting bushy growth, and removing any dead or diseased foliage. I typically prune mine in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges. Using sharp, clean shears, I carefully trim back any overgrown or leggy stems, as well as any damaged or discolored leaves. Additionally, I may prune the plant to encourage branching and create a more compact form.
Why is my Fabian Aralia tree dying?
There could be several reasons why a Fabian Aralia tree is dying, including overwatering, underwatering, inadequate light, pests, or diseases. I would inspect the plant carefully to determine the underlying cause of its decline. If the soil is consistently wet or waterlogged, it may indicate overwatering, while dry, crispy leaves could be a sign of underwatering. Additionally, inspecting the plant for pests such as spider mites or mealybugs and treating any infestations promptly can help prevent further damage. If the plant is severely affected, it may be necessary to prune away any dead or diseased foliage and repot it in fresh, well-draining soil.
