Polyscias fruticosa (L.) Harms

Family: Polyciaceaea

Taxonomy: Plantae > Tracheophyta > Equisetopsida > Apiales > Araliaceae > Polyscias > P. fruticosa

Common name [English]: Ming aralia

Vernacular name [Malayalam]:

Nativity: Central Malesia to SW. Pacific.

Habitat: It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Description: Tropical shrub or dwarf tree growing about 5 m in height and 2-3m in width. It has spreading branches and dark green and glossy leaves that are clustered near the tips.

Flowering and Fruiting : Throughout the year

Uses: Young leaves and shoots - cooked . Steamed and eaten as greens or added to soups etc as a flavouring . They have an aromatic flavour, reminiscent of parsley . Leaves, young shoots, and also roots, are consumed raw or cooked as a vegetable and flavouring .

Cultivation: Wild and common

References

http://www.plantsoftheworldonline.org

https://indiabiodiversity.org