Schefflera arboricola

Schefflera, more widely known as umbrella trees, is a collection of broadleaf evergreen shrubs or trees native to Taiwan.  Glossy, oblong, solid green or variegated yellow leaflets in groups of 4-16 form in neat rings that resemble umbrellas due to the way the foliage droops.  The number of leaflets in these enchanting rings increases proportionally to the plant's size and maturity, with the largest trees sporting canopies comprised of massive versions of the leafy umbrellas.  Umbrella trees produce showy, tentacle-like, flower-bearing branches that resemble an inverted umbrella, typically emerging above the foliage.  Following the blooms, umbrella trees bare massive clusters of fleshy, brightly colored drupes in many shades of red, orange, and yellow.  Planting umbrella trees outdoors is practically essential for them to flower, as most indoor plants only bloom extremely rarely.  All parts of the umbrella tree are toxic to humans, but they are even more hazardous to pets and livestock, and they should be kept safely out of their reach.  

It is important to provide umbrella trees with a location that receives copious amounts of bright, indirect sunlight as their foliage is highly susceptible to scorching.  If the leaves start to become leggy or excessively droopy, the plant should be moved somewhere with a greater concentration of ambient sunlight.  Indoor umbrella trees should be planted in a rich, well-draining potting soil, whereas outdoor plants benefit from a sandy loam mixture and a slightly acidic pH.  Regular deep waterings that allow the soil to completely dry, paired with frequently spraying the foliage, should keep umbrella trees in peak condition during the growing season.  Watering should be reduced during the winter months or when leaves begin yellowing and dropping.  When grown indoors, provide umbrella trees with a humidifier or regular misting and keep them away from drafty areas.  Umbrella trees are heavy feeders and can be fed twice per week with a liquid fertilizer during the growing season.  Learn more in the Plant Story Community!

3-6 hours of sun per day, with protection from intense mid-day sun

Water sparingly, allowing the mix to nearly dry out between watering.

Schefflera Arboricola

Schefflera arboricola

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