Schefflera arboricola
Schefflera arboricola
Umbrella Plant
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Taxonomy
Family Araliaceae · Genus Schefflera
Description
Schefflera arboricola, the dwarf umbrella tree, is a hardy, glossy-leaved houseplant that forms charming whorls of leaflets. It thrives in bright, indirect light, tolerates occasional neglect, and can be pruned to keep a neat, bushy shape—great for homes and offices alike.
Common Names
Umbrella PlantDwarf Umbrella TreeHawaiian ScheffleraParasol Plant
Context
nativeRegion
Taiwan and Hainan (China)
usdaZones
10–12 (outdoors); commonly grown as an indoor plant elsewhere
companionPlants
Dracaena, Snake Plant (Sansevieria/Dracaena trifasciata), Pothos (Epipremnum aureum), Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum), ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
culturalUses
Popular ornamental for homes, offices, and tropical hedges; sometimes used in feng shui; commonly trained as bonsai.
Care
Care Requirements
LightBright, indirect light; tolerates medium light. Avoid harsh midday sun, especially for non-variegated forms.
WateringWater when the top 1–2 inches of soil dry out. Thoroughly soak, then drain. Reduce in winter; avoid soggy soil.
SoilWell-draining potting mix with perlite or bark; slightly acidic to neutral (pH ~6.0–7.0).
FertilizerBalanced liquid fertilizer at 1/2 strength every 4–6 weeks in spring–summer; sparingly in fall–winter.
HumidityAverage home humidity is fine; prefers 40–60%. Mist or use a tray if air is very dry.
TemperatureIdeal 60–80°F (16–27°C). Protect from drafts; avoid below 50–55°F (10–13°C).
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitEvergreen shrub or small tree with whorled, glossy leaflets
Mature SizeIndoors 3–6 ft (0.9–1.8 m); outdoors 10–15 ft tall and 6–10 ft wide in suitable climates
Growth RateModerate to fast
BloomingSmall, inconspicuous flower clusters; rare indoors; summer to early fall in warm climates
DormancyNo true dormancy; growth slows in winter
Propagation
MethodsStem cuttings, Air layering, Seed
DifficultyEasy to moderate
Best SeasonSpring to early summer
Maintenance & Notes
PruningPinch tips to encourage branching. Prune leggy stems in spring to shape and control height; clean tools to prevent disease.
RepottingRepot every 2–3 years in spring or when rootbound; step up 1–2 inches in pot size with fresh, well-draining mix.
Pests & DiseasesProne to spider mites, scale, mealybugs, aphids. Overwatering can cause root rot; cold drafts trigger leaf drop; occasional leaf spot.
ToxicityToxic to pets and people if ingested (insoluble calcium oxalates); sap may irritate skin.