Schefflera actinophylla

Umbrella Tree

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Taxonomy

Common Names

Umbrella TreeOctopus TreeAustralian Ivy Palm

Context

nativeRegion

Northeastern Australia, New Guinea.

usdaZones

10-12 (grown as a houseplant elsewhere).

companionPlants

Ficus elastica, Philodendron spp., Dracaena spp.

culturalUses

Popular as an ornamental indoor plant; widely used in landscaping in tropical and subtropical areas.

Care

LightBright, indirect light preferred; tolerates some direct sun and low light but may grow slower.

WateringWater moderately, allowing the top 2-3 cm of soil to dry out between waterings; avoid letting the plant sit in water.

SoilWell-draining, peat-based potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.

FertilizerFeed monthly during spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertilizer, diluted to half-strength.

HumidityPrefers moderate humidity but adapts well to average indoor conditions.

TemperatureThrives in temperatures of 18-27°C (65-80°F); avoid cold drafts and temperatures below 13°C (55°F).

HabitEvergreen tree or shrub, commonly grown as an indoor foliage plant.

Mature SizeOutdoors: up to 10-15 m (33-50 ft); Indoors: typically 2-3 m (6-10 ft).

Growth RateModerate to fast growth under favorable conditions.

BloomingProduces red, tentacle-like flower spikes outdoors, rarely flowers indoors.

DormancyNo true dormancy, but growth slows in cooler months.

MethodsStem cuttings, Air layering, Seeds

DifficultyEasy to moderate.

Best SeasonSpring or early summer for cuttings and layering; seeds can be sown in spring.

PruningPrune to shape and control size; remove dead or damaged leaves as needed.

RepottingRepot every 2-3 years or when rootbound, preferably in spring.

Pests & DiseasesSusceptible to scale, spider mites, and mealybugs; may develop root rot if overwatered.

ToxicityToxic to cats, dogs, and humans if ingested (contains insoluble calcium oxalates).

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