How to Grow and Care for Schefflera

According to data from NC State University [1], let's see a general overview of this plant:

Flower Color	White, pink, or red (indoor plants rarely bloom)
Bloom Time	Summer (outdoors)
Soil pH	Slightly acidic (6.0-6.5)
Common Name	Schefflera, umbrella plant, umbrella tree
Botanical Name	Schefflera spp.
Soil Type	Rich and moderately moist
Plant Type	Broadleaf evergreen
Sun Exposure	Bright, indirect light
Family	Araliaceae
Mature Size	4 to 6 feet. tall, 3 to 6 feet wide (indoors); up to 25 feet tall (outdoors)
Hardiness Zones	10–12 (USDA)

Type of Schefflera

Schefflera is a genus of flowering plants in the family Araliaceae, native to tropical and subtropical regions of the world. There are about 600 species of Schefflera, which vary in size, shape, and habit. Some are shrubs or small trees, while others are climbers or epiphytes. Some of the most common types of Schefflera are:

• Schefflera actinophylla is an umbrella tree, octopus tree, or Australian ivy palm. It is a large evergreen tree that can grow up to 15 meters tall, with compound leaves that radiate from a central point like an umbrella. It produces red or purple flowers in long spikes that hang from the branches. It is native to Australia, New Guinea, and Java and is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant in warm climates.
• Schefflera arboricola, also known as dwarf umbrella tree, Hawaiian elf schefflera, or parasol plant. It is a small evergreen shrub that can grow up to 4 meters tall, with compound leaves that resemble miniature umbrellas. It produces yellow or green flowers in clusters that are followed by small black fruits. It is native to Taiwan and Hainan and is popular as a houseplant or bonsai.
• Schefflera elegantissima, also known as false aralia, spider aralia, or threadleaf aralia. It is a slender evergreen shrub that can grow up to 3 meters tall, with finely divided leaves that have a fern-like appearance. It produces white or green flowers in small umbels that are followed by black berries. It is native to New Caledonia and Vanuatu, and grown as a houseplant for its attractive foliage.

Umbrella plants thrive in bright indirect light, but can tolerate direct sun or medium light, though growth may slow and legginess increase. Humidity is typically unnecessary, but dry air may attract pests. Indoors, umbrella plants prefer temperatures of 55 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Hardy from USDA zones 10 to 11 [2], umbrella plants can be grown outside year-round in suitable climates, but check for local restrictions—the vigorous Schefflera actinophylla is considered invasive in Florida and Hawaii. With proper light and humidity, umbrella plants flourish, but know a species' traits before planting outdoors.

In this guide, we will show you the way to grow umbrellas by propagating. You can propagate schefflera in spring by stem cuttings to produce new plants.

• Using sharp pruners, cut a 6-inch stem segment at a 45-degree angle, removing all but 4-5 top leaves.
• Dip the cut end in the rooting hormone. Next, plant in potting soil.
• Cover with a loosely sealed bag to retain humidity.
• Place in bright indirect light and keep soil moist.
• Check for roots after a month by gently tugging the stem. If roots form, uncover the new plant. If not, discard the cutting and try again.
• With the proper technique and conditions, schefflera cuttings can take root and establish new plants.

Light

Schefflera thrives in bright indirect light. In summer, situate potted scheffleras outside in a spot receiving ample light without direct sun exposure, such as under a patio cover. Leggy or floppy growth indicates insufficient light—never place schefflera in direct strong sunlight, as the intense rays may scorch the leaves. By providing sufficient indirect light and avoiding direct sun, your schefflera can flourish.

Soil

For indoor growth, plant schefflera in a fertile, loose, well-draining potting mix. When grown outside, schefflera thrives in a sandy, slightly acidic soil with good drainage. Avoid soggy or waterlogged soil, whether indoors or out, as excessive moisture may rot the roots. With a proper potting medium that retains some moisture yet drains well, schefflera can prosper.

Water

Water schefflera regularly in the growing season, misting the leaves often. Allow the soil to dry between deep soakings. In winter, reduce watering. Overwatering will rot the roots, killing the plant. Yellowing, dropped leaves signal excessive water—if this occurs, let the soil dry out. With proper watering, schefflera thrives, but don't oversaturate the soil, as too much moisture is lethal.

Temperature

Schefflera's tropical nature requires warm conditions. If temperatures drop 60 degrees Fahrenheit or drafts and dry air below from heating vents prevail, schefflera will suffer. To satisfy this houseplant's tropical needs, maintain temperatures above 60 degrees and low increase humidity. Your plant can flourish by replicating the warm, moist environment schefflera favors.

Fertilizer

During the growing season, fertilize schefflera every 3-4 days with houseplant liquid feed [3]or apply slow-release pellets twice yearly. As vigorous growers, scheffleras benefit from regular feeding to fuel healthy growth. With frequent fertilizer, schefflera can flourish and reach its full, dramatic potential.

Pruning schefflera is not difficult, but it does require some tools and techniques. Here are some tips on how to prune schefflera:

• Use sharp and clean pruning shears or scissors to avoid damaging the plant or spreading diseases.
• Prune schefflera in spring or summer, when the plant is actively growing and can heal faster.
• Cut off any dead, diseased, or damaged branches at their base, as close to the main stem as possible.
• Cut off any leggy, spindly, or crossing branches to improve the plant's appearance and airflow.
• Cut off the top of the main stem or any side branches to reduce the height of the plant and stimulate new growth from below the cut. You can also use this method to propagate new plants from the cuttings.
• Pinch off the tips of new shoots to encourage branching and make the plant bushier.

Potting and repotting schefflera are also important for its health and growth. Schefflera prefers a well-draining potting mix that is rich in organic matter. You can use a commercial potting mix for houseplants or make your own by mixing equal parts of peat moss, perlite, and compost. Schefflera should be repotted when it becomes rootbound, which means that the roots have filled up the pot and are growing out of the drainage holes. This can happen every year or two, depending on the size of the pot and the growth rate of the plant. To repot schefflera, follow these steps:

• Choose a new pot that is one or two sizes larger than the current one, with drainage holes at the bottom.
• Fill the new pot with some fresh potting mix, leaving enough space for the root ball of the plant.
• Gently remove the plant from its old pot, being careful not to damage the roots.
• Loosen any compacted or circling roots with your fingers or a fork.
• Place the plant in the center of the new pot and fill in the gaps with more potting mix, firming it down lightly.
• Water the plant thoroughly and let it drain.
• Place the plant in a bright spot away from direct sunlight for a few weeks to help it adjust to its new home.

Schefflera is generally a hardy and resilient plant, but it can still be affected by some common pests and diseases. Some of the most common ones are:

Spider mites

These are tiny arachnids that suck sap from the leaves, causing them to turn yellow, brown, or speckled. They can also spin fine webs on the plant. To control spider mites, spray the plant with water or insecticidal soap every few days until they are gone. You can also use a miticide or neem oil as a last resort.

Mealybugs

These are small white insects that look like cottony masses on the stems and leaves. They also suck sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and distorted leaves. To control mealybugs, wipe them off with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol or spray them with insecticidal soap or neem oil. You can also use a systemic insecticide if they are persistent.

Scale insects

These are brown or black insects that look like bumps on the stems and leaves. They also suck sap from the plant, causing yellowing and wilting of leaves. To control scale insects, scrape them off with your fingernail or a toothbrush or spray them with insecticidal soap or neem oil. You can also use a systemic insecticide if they are severe.

Is the Schefflera poisonous?

The schefflera plant contains calcium oxalate crystals [4], an irritant posing risks of skin irritation, vomiting, and other side effects if ingested. When handling schefflera, wear gloves to avoid contact with the leaves. Keep the plant out of reach of children and pets—it is toxic to dogs and cats, causing mouth and tongue irritation, drooling, trouble swallowing, and vomiting if ingested.

How long does schefflera last?

With proper conditions, schefflera can thrive for decades. Outdoor plants in suitable climates may endure for decades, while indoor scheffleras can flourish for over 25 years. By providing the light, water, and nutrients this houseplant needs, your schefflera can grace your home with verdant beauty for years to come.

How much light does Schefflera need?

Schefflera prefers bright, indirect light, but can tolerate lower light levels. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves.

How often should I water Schefflera?

Water Schefflera when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Do not overwater, as this can cause root rot. Allow excess water to drain out of the pot and empty the saucer.

 

Source: The New York Garden works under restricted procurement guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies and studies conducted by academic organizations. Tertiary references should be avoided. For more information on how we ensure our material is correct and up to date, please visit our editorial policy.

1. Schefflera - NC State University
2. USDA zones 10 to 11 - USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map
3. Houseplant liquid feed - The National Center for Biotechnology Information
4. Calcium oxalate crystals - U.S. government science information