Schefflera is one of the most underrated statement house plants. Also known as the umbrella plant, its distinctive umbrella-like foliage is surprisingly low-maintenance for how lush it grows.The leaves of an umbrella plant naturally absorb pollutants from the air while releasing generous amounts of oxygen, making them natural air fresheners and detoxifiers. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, this comprehensive care guide will provide you with all the information you need to ensure your Schefflera thrives, and you get ahead of the trend.
A Brief History of Schefflera
The Schefflera originates from Oceanic and Asian rainforests, especially in countries like Australia, New Zealand, Taiwan, and Papua New Guinea. The genus name comes from the 18th century botanist, Johann Peter Ernst von Scheffler, who studied the Pacific plant. Umbrella plant care requires a tropical touch, to resemble its natural habitat.
Schefflera Tips and Fun Facts
- Schefflera is native to tropical regions of Australia, New Guinea, and Southeast Asia.
- Choose from over 600 Schefflera varieties, with names that start with every letter of the alphabet excluding those tricky X and Z.
- Schefflera or umbrella plant also goes by parasol plant, Australian ivy palm, octopus tree, and starleaf.
- Pruning Schefflera can help maintain its shape and promote bushier growth. Simply trim back any overgrown or leggy stems using clean, sharp pruning shears.
- With the right umbrella plant care, they can live up to 25 years indoors, and for decades outside.
- Originating from the Australian rainforests, the Aboriginal people call Schefflera “Dulmbil” and use it medicinally with its anesthetic properties. One specific use is for toothaches: they break off a leaf and stick the stem on the tooth, to help tolerate the discomfort.
- They can reach heights up to 10 feet tall!
Cut Flower Care
Schefflera plants are less prone to flowering in temperate regions; however, they may occasionally bloom, particularly in warmer locales such as Florida and southern California. These rare blooms can be white, pink, or red, and their inflorescences are grouped in flower clusters resembling upside-down octopus tentacles The inflorescences are grouped in clusters at the end of branches. They have the best chance of blooming when planted in full sun outside in a more humid climate. If they flower, start by cutting the stems at a 45-degree angle under running water to prevent air bubbles from forming, which can block water uptake. Remove any foliage that will fall below the water line to prevent bacterial growth. Place the bouquet in a clean vase filled with fresh water and change the water every few days to maintain freshness.
Schefflera Care
When to Plant
Schefflera can be planted outdoors in USDA hardiness zones 10 through 12, where temperatures remain consistently warm. In cooler climates, it’s best grown as a houseplant or moved indoors during the winter months to avoid frostbite.
Where to Plant (Sunlight Needs)
When planting Schefflera outdoors, choose a location that receives partial shade to full sunlight. Indoors, place your plant near a bright, sunny window, but avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.
When to Water
Schefflera prefers consistently moist soil but can tolerate brief periods of dryness. Water your plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, and be sure to avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
Common Pests and Diseases
While Schefflera is relatively pest and disease-resistant, it can occasionally fall victim to spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. Keep an eye out for signs of infestation, such as webbing, stippled leaves, or sticky residue, and treat promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Double check an umbrella plant at a nursery or garden center for these pests before buying, as they can be insect prone.
How to Propagate Schefflera
Umbrella plants have two primary methods of propagation: through cuttings or by sowing seeds. To propagate through cuttings, trim a long shoot, approximately 10 cm in length, close to the main stem to avoid leaving any rough edges. Place the cutting into a small pot filled with soil-based potting compost mixed with an equal amount of grit. Ensure that half of the stem remains above the compost level. Water the cutting thoroughly and cover the pot with a plastic bag until the cutting establishes roots. Alternatively, cuttings can also be placed directly in water to encourage root development.
Growing Schefflera in Containers
When growing Schefflera in containers, it’s essential to choose a well-draining potting mix and a container with drainage holes to prevent waterlogged soil. Terra cotta or ceramic pots are ideal choices, as they allow excess moisture to evaporate more efficiently. Consider planting Schefflera in a decorative planter box, window planter, or clay pot to enhance its aesthetic appeal. Choose a container that complements your home decor while providing adequate space for root growth.
Varieties of the Schefflera
Diving into the diverse world of Schefflera plants reveals a spectrum of varieties, each boasting unique foliage shapes, growth habits, and environmental preferences. Schefflera care doesn’t vary too much between varieties. Exploring these distinct varieties offers a wealth of options to suit their individual tastes and gardening needs.
- Schefflera arboricola (Dwarf Umbrella Tree): This compact variety features smaller leaves and a bushier growth habit, making it an ideal choice for smaller spaces or indoor cultivation.
- Schefflera actinophylla (Australian Umbrella Tree): Known for its large, glossy leaves and impressive size, this variety can grow into a small tree in optimal conditions, adding a tropical touch to any landscape.
- Schefflera elegantissima (False Aralia): With its finely divided, fern-like foliage, this variety offers a delicate and elegant appearance, making it a popular choice for indoor settings.
- Schefflera digitata (Finger Aralia): Characterized by its deeply lobed, hand-shaped leaves, this variety adds a unique and striking visual element to gardens and indoor spaces alike.
- Schefflera amate (Amate): Featuring large, leathery leaves and a vigorous growth habit, this variety is prized for its ability to quickly fill in empty spaces and create a lush, tropical atmosphere.
- Schefflera taiwaniana (Taiwan Schefflera): Native to Taiwan, this variety is valued for its compact size and attractive foliage, which often displays shades of bronze or red when exposed to bright sunlight.
- Schefflera delavayi (Delavay’s Schefflera): With its glossy, palmate leaves and graceful growth habit, this variety adds a touch of elegance to gardens and landscapes, particularly when grown as a specimen plant.
- Schefflera heptaphylla (Seven Finger Schefflera): Named for its seven-lobed leaves, this variety offers a distinctive appearance and is prized for its tolerance of a wide range of growing conditions.
- Schefflera pueckleri (Pückler’s Schefflera): Native to Mexico and Central America, this variety features deeply lobed leaves and a compact growth habit, making it well-suited for containers or small gardens.
- Schefflera rhododendrifolia (Rhododendron-Leaf Schefflera): This variety stands out for its large, rhododendron-like leaves and impressive size, making it an eye-catching decor piece.
Complementary Plants
Schefflera care is accessible to anyone, and pairs well with a variety of plants you may already own. Try pairing plants with similar climate requirements and can create a lush, tropical-inspired display.
- Pothos: With its trailing vines and heart-shaped leaves, pothos adds a lush, cascading effect that complements Schefflera’s upright growth habit.
- Philodendron: Available in various leaf shapes and sizes, philodendrons offer versatility and can fill in empty spaces around Schefflera while adding texture and depth to the arrangement.
- Ferns: Ferns, such as Boston fern (Nephrolepis exaltata) or maidenhair fern (Adiantum spp.), thrive in similar moist, shaded environments and provide a soft, feathery contrast to Schefflera’s bold foliage.
- Dieffenbachia: Also known as dumb cane, this is a similarly lush plant with gorgeous two-tone leaves that match that of an umbrella plant. They require slightly different maintenance, but caring for dumb cane plants is made easy with our guide.
- Spider Plant: With its arching, variegated leaves and easy-care nature, spider plants make excellent companions for Schefflera, adding interest and texture to the display.
- English Ivy: Caring for English ivy is pretty hands-off, and makes for an interesting accent plant as its vines will climb the nearest wall.
- Snake Plant: With its upright, sword-shaped leaves, snake plants provide a bold contrast to Schefflera’s rounded foliage, creating a visually dynamic pairing.
- ZZ Plant: Known for its glossy, dark green leaves and low-maintenance nature, ZZ plants complement Schefflera’s appearance while requiring similar care requirements.
- Peace Lily: With its elegant white flowers and lush green foliage, peace lilies add a touch of elegance and sophistication to arrangements featuring Schefflera.
Schefflera is a versatile and resilient plant that deserves more love from the gardening community. By following the guidelines outlined in this care guide, you can enjoy the beauty of Schefflera in your home or yard regardless if you have green thumbs. Order plants for delivery and have a built out, lush indoor garden at your doorstep.
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