Botanical Name: Polyscias scutellaria
Common Name(s): Aralia Fabian Stump, Shield Aralia, Fabian Aralia

Polyscias scutellaria, commonly known as the Aralia Fabian Stump or Shield Aralia, is a stunning tropical plant that stands out with its distinctive, glossy, and lobed foliage. The plant's leaves are large and rounded, resembling shields, with deep green hues and prominent veins. This variety is particularly popular for its unique, bushy appearance, making it an ideal choice for both indoor and outdoor spaces that require a tropical touch.

Native to the Pacific Islands and parts of Southeast Asia, Polyscias scutellaria is a relatively low-maintenance plant, but it thrives in warm, humid environments with plenty of indirect light. It prefers temperatures between 60-80°F (15-27°C) and should be kept away from cold drafts or sudden temperature changes. Bright, indirect light is ideal for this plant, although it can tolerate some lower light conditions, but its growth may slow in lower light environments. This plant enjoys a consistently moist but well-draining soil. Polyscias scutellaria also benefits from occasional misting or a humidity tray to replicate its native tropical conditions, as dry air can cause leaf tips to brown.

Aralia Fabian Stump is a relatively slow-growing plant, but with the right care, it can develop into a beautiful, bushy shrub. Regular pruning can help maintain its compact, tidy shape, and if allowed to grow tall, it can be trained into a small tree or large bush. This versatile plant can be kept as a decorative indoor specimen or used in outdoor tropical gardens in warmer climates.

Note: This plant is non-toxic to both pets and humans, making it a safe choice for homes with curious animals or small children. However, it's best to prevent pets from chewing on the foliage.