Licorice Plant vs Polyscias Plant Comparison
Compare these two plants side by side — care needs, key differences, and which is right for your home.
Licorice Plant
Glycyrrhiza glabra
Glycyrrhiza glabra, commonly known as licorice, is a perennial herbaceous plant that grows to about 1 meter (3 feet) tall. It features pinnate leaves and pea-like flowers, typically purple to pale blue. The plant is primarily cultivated for its rhizomes and roots, which contain glycyrrhizin, a compound responsible for its characteristic sweet flavor. Licorice is mainly grown outdoors in well-drained soil and full sun. While it can be attempted indoors, it's challenging to replicate its ideal growing conditions, and it may not thrive.
Polyscias
Polyscias fruticosa
Polyscias fruticosa, commonly known as Ming Aralia, is an evergreen shrub or small tree prized for its intricately divided, fern-like foliage. It typically grows to 1-2 meters indoors, but can reach greater heights outdoors. The plant features woody stems and a dense canopy of small, rounded leaflets. It is primarily grown for its ornamental foliage, adding a touch of elegance and texture to indoor spaces. While it can be grown indoors, it requires specific conditions to thrive and is often considered a more challenging houseplant. Its unique appearance makes it a popular choice for bonsai enthusiasts.
Quick Plant Comparison
| Feature | Licorice Plant | Polyscias |
|---|---|---|
| Light | Full sun (at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily) | Bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves. |
| Watering | Every 5-7 days during the growing season, less frequently in winter. | Every 7-10 days, depending on environmental conditions |
| Humidity | 40-60% | 50-70% |
| Temperature | 15-27°C | 18-24°C |
| Care Level | Expert | Moderate |
| Growth Rate | Moderate | Slow |
| Max Height | 0.5-1 meter (indoors, likely smaller) | 0.6-1.2 meters |
| Pet Safety | ❌ Toxic To Pets | ❌ Toxic To Pets |
| Soil | Well-drained loamy soil | Well-draining potting mix, such as a blend of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite |
| Beginner Friendly | ❌ No | ❌ No |
| Weekly Maintenance | 30 minutes weekly (primarily for watering, weeding, and pest control). | 15 minutes weekly |
🔬 Botanical Information — Comparing These Plants
Licorice Plant
| Scientific Name | Glycyrrhiza glabra |
|---|---|
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Native To | Southern Europe and parts of Asia |
| Also Known As | Licorice, Liquorice |
| Leaves | The leaves are pinnately compound, typically consisting of 9-17 leaflets. Each leaflet is oval to lance-shaped, with a smooth margin and a slightly sticky texture. The leaves are generally green in color. |
| Flowers | Licorice produces pea-like flowers that are typically purple to pale blue. Flowering usually occurs in the summer months. It is unlikely to flower indoors due to insufficient light. |
Polyscias
| Scientific Name | Polyscias fruticosa |
|---|---|
| Family | Araliaceae |
| Native To | Tropical Asia and Polynesia |
| Also Known As | Ming Aralia, Balfour Aralia, Geranium Aralia |
| Leaves | The leaves of Ming Aralia are compound and intricately divided, resembling ferns. The leaflets are small, rounded, and often have slightly serrated edges. The color is typically a vibrant green, providing a lush and textured appearance. |
| Flowers | Ming Aralia rarely flowers indoors. When it does flower outdoors, it produces small, inconspicuous white or greenish flowers in clusters. |
📏 Size & Growth — Plant Comparison
Licorice Plant
Polyscias
🌱 Propagation — Comparing Plant Growth
Licorice Plant
Methods: Seed, Rhizome division, Root cuttings
Difficulty: Moderate
Tips: For rhizome division, separate rhizomes in early spring and plant them in well-drained soil. Root cuttings should be taken in late fall or early winter and planted horizontally.
Polyscias
Methods: Stem cuttings, Air layering
Difficulty: Moderate
Tips: Take stem cuttings in spring or summer. Use rooting hormone and provide warm, humid conditions. Air layering can also be successful.
✨ Benefits & Features — Comparing Plant Value
Licorice Plant
The roots of Glycyrrhiza glabra contain glycyrrhizin, a compound that is significantly sweeter than sugar. This plant has a long history of use in both culinary and traditional medicine.
- ✓ Provides a unique flavoring agent for culinary uses.
- ✓ Has potential medicinal properties (consult a healthcare professional).
- ✓ Adds visual interest to a garden with its foliage and flowers.
- ✓ Can be a rewarding challenge for experienced gardeners.
- ✓ Supports biodiversity in a garden ecosystem.
- ⚠️ Toxic to pets
Polyscias
Ming Aralia stands out due to its finely divided, fern-like foliage, creating a delicate and intricate appearance. Its ability to be trained as a bonsai further enhances its unique appeal, allowing for artistic expression and customization.
- ✓ Adds a unique aesthetic to indoor spaces
- ✓ Can be trained into a bonsai for a creative hobby
- ✓ Provides a calming and relaxing atmosphere
- ✓ Offers a touch of the tropics indoors
- ✓ Enhances the overall visual appeal of a room
- ⚠️ Toxic to pets
📅 Maintenance Schedule — Plant Care Comparison
Licorice Plant
Polyscias
🌞 Light Requirements
Licorice Plant
Full sun (at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily)
Low light tolerant: ❌ No
Polyscias
Bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.
Low light tolerant: ❌ No
💧 Watering Needs
Licorice Plant
Water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Signs of overwatering include yellowing leaves and a musty smell. Underwatering is indicated by wilting and dry, crispy leaves.
Polyscias
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot. Overwatering can lead to leaf drop and stem rot. Underwatering will cause leaves to dry and become brittle.
🌡️ Temperature & Humidity
Licorice Plant
Temperature: 15-27°C
Humidity: 40-60%
Polyscias
Temperature: 18-24°C
Humidity: 50-70%
🤔 Which Plant Is Right For You?
Licorice Plant
Glycyrrhiza glabraExperienced gardeners who want to grow licorice outdoors for its roots, understanding its toxicity to pets.
✅ Choose This Plant If...
- You have a sunny outdoor garden space.
- You are interested in harvesting licorice root for culinary or medicinal purposes.
- You are an experienced gardener looking for a unique plant to grow.
- You understand the plant's toxicity to pets and can keep it away from them.
- You are prepared to provide the specific care this plant needs to thrive.
❌ Skip This Plant If...
- You have pets that might ingest the plant.
- You lack a sunny outdoor space.
- You are a beginner gardener.
- You are looking for a low-maintenance indoor plant.
- You are not prepared to manage the plant's potential for rhizomatous spread.
Polyscias
Polyscias fruticosaExperienced plant enthusiasts who can provide the specific care requirements of this plant.
✅ Choose This Plant If...
- You appreciate unique and textured foliage in your indoor plant collection.
- You are looking for a plant that can be trained into a bonsai.
- You are willing to provide the specific care requirements of a slightly more challenging plant.
- You want a plant that adds an elegant and sophisticated touch to your home decor.
- You have experience with tropical plants and can maintain adequate humidity levels.
❌ Skip This Plant If...
- You are a beginner plant owner.
- You tend to overwater your plants.
- You have pets that may ingest the plant.
🎯 Quick Verdict
⚡ Key Differences Between These Plants
Licorice Plant is rated Expert care level, while Polyscias is Moderate.
Licorice Plant has moderate growth, while Polyscias grows slow.
💡 Pro Tips For Comparing These Plants
Licorice Plant Care Tips
Licorice is primarily an outdoor plant and requires full sun and well-drained soil. Growing it indoors is challenging due to its high light requirements and potential for rhizomatous spread. It also poses a toxicity risk to pets. Indoor cultivation requires careful attention to light, watering, and potential toxicity.
- Provide well-drained soil to prevent root rot.
- Ensure at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
- Monitor for pests like aphids and spider mites.
- Harvest licorice roots in the fall after 3-4 years of growth.
- Be mindful of its potential for rhizomatous spread and contain it if necessary.
Polyscias Care Tips
Ming Aralia requires bright, indirect light, consistent moisture, and moderate humidity. It is sensitive to overwatering and cold drafts. Providing optimal conditions is crucial for its health and appearance. It can be challenging to maintain indoors due to its specific needs.
- Maintain consistent humidity levels by using a humidifier or pebble tray.
- Avoid placing the plant near drafts or heating vents.
- Rotate the plant regularly to ensure even growth.
- Use a well-draining potting mix to prevent root rot.
- Monitor for pests regularly and treat promptly.
⚠️ Common Problems & Solutions — Plant Care Comparison
Licorice Plant
Polyscias
❓ Frequently Asked Questions — Comparing These Plants
Licorice Plant
What are the light requirements for Licorice Plant?
Licorice Plant thrives in bright, indirect light. Too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, while insufficient light can lead to leggy growth and faded foliage color. An east-facing window is often ideal, providing gentle morning sun. A south- or west-facing window can also work, but be sure to filter the light with sheer curtains or blinds, especially during the hottest part of the day.
How do I care for Licorice Plant?
Licorice Plant thrives in well-draining soil. Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry, allowing excess water to drain. Provide bright, indirect light for optimal growth, though it can tolerate some direct sun, especially in the morning. These plants prefer moderate temperatures, ideally between 60-75°F (15-24°C). Fertilize lightly every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength.
How do I propagate Licorice Plant?
Licorice Plant is easily propagated through stem cuttings and layering. For stem cuttings, take a 4-6 inch cutting from a healthy stem, removing the lower leaves. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant it in moist, well-draining potting mix. Cover with a plastic bag or humidity dome to maintain moisture. Keep in bright, indirect light until roots develop, usually within 2-4 weeks.
Polyscias
What are the light requirements for Polyscias?
Polyscias thrives in bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, especially during the hottest parts of the day, as it can scorch the leaves. An east-facing window is often ideal, providing gentle morning sun. If placing it near a south- or west-facing window, use sheer curtains to filter the light. Insufficient light can lead to leggy growth and leaf drop.
How do I care for Polyscias?
Polyscias requires bright, indirect light to thrive. Direct sunlight can scorch its delicate leaves. Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry, ensuring good drainage to prevent root rot. Maintain humidity levels between 40-60%. Use a well-draining potting mix formulated for indoor plants. Fertilize monthly during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength.
How do I propagate Polyscias?
Polyscias can be propagated through stem cuttings or air layering. For stem cuttings, take a 4-6 inch cutting from a healthy stem. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a well-draining potting mix and keep it moist. Cover with a plastic bag to increase humidity. Roots should develop in a few weeks.
Last updated: May 10, 2026 — Plant care data reviewed and verified by our editorial team.