About Umbrella Plant
Umbrella Plant Introduction
The Umbrella Plant (Schefflera arboricola) is a popular houseplant known for its distinctive, umbrella-like leaf structure. Native to Taiwan and Hainan, this tropical plant has become a favorite among indoor gardeners due to its attractive foliage and relatively easy care requirements.
Schefflera arboricola is characterized by its glossy, dark green leaves that grow in a circular pattern around a central point, resembling the spokes of an umbrella. Each leaf typically consists of 7-9 leaflets, although this can vary. The plant can grow quite tall in its natural habitat, reaching heights of up to 25 feet, but as a houseplant, it’s usually maintained at a more manageable size of 4-8 feet.
The Umbrella Plant is valued for its air-purifying qualities, ability to adapt to various indoor environments, and its lush, tropical appearance. It’s often used in offices and homes to add a touch of greenery and can be grown as a small indoor tree or bush, depending on pruning and care. While it rarely flowers indoors, in its natural habitat or in ideal conditions, it may produce small, reddish flowers followed by small fruit.
Umbrella Plant Care & Growing Guide
Caring for an Umbrella Plant (Schefflera arboricola) is relatively straightforward, making it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced plant enthusiasts. This resilient plant adapts well to indoor environments but thrives when its basic needs are met consistently.
Light is a crucial factor in the health of your Umbrella Plant. It prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light conditions. However, in low light, growth may slow, and the plant may become leggy. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight, as this can scorch the leaves. A spot near a north or east-facing window is often ideal.
Watering should be done moderately. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings, then water thoroughly until water drains from the bottom of the pot. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it’s better to err on the side of underwatering. During the growing season (spring and summer), water more frequently, reducing watering in the winter months when growth slows. Regular misting or placing the pot on a pebble tray can help increase humidity, which the Umbrella Plant appreciates.
Soil
The Umbrella Plant (Schefflera arboricola) thrives in well-draining, fertile soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH range of 6.0 to 6.5. A good potting mix for this plant should contain a blend of peat moss, perlite, and regular potting soil to ensure adequate drainage and aeration.
The ideal soil composition should retain some moisture while allowing excess water to drain freely. A mix of 2 parts peat moss, 1 part perlite, and 1 part regular potting soil often works well. This combination provides the right balance of water retention and drainage that Schefflera arboricola needs.
Soil problems can significantly affect the health of your Umbrella Plant. Poor drainage can lead to root rot, a common issue with these plants. Compacted soil can restrict root growth and lead to poor nutrient uptake. If the soil pH is too high or too low, it can affect the plant’s ability to absorb nutrients. Salt build-up from fertilizers can also be problematic, causing leaf burn and root damage. To prevent these issues, ensure proper drainage, avoid overwatering, and flush the soil occasionally to prevent salt accumulation. If you notice signs of nutrient deficiencies, such as yellowing leaves or stunted growth, consider using a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer during the growing season. Root boundness can occur if the plant outgrows its pot, so repot every 2-3 years or when roots start growing out of the drainage holes.
Fertilizer
The Umbrella Plant (Schefflera arboricola) benefits from regular fertilization during its active growing season, typically spring and summer. Use a balanced, water-soluble houseplant fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 20-20-20 or 10-10-10.
Fertilize every 2-4 weeks during the growing season, diluting the fertilizer to half the recommended strength. In fall and winter, reduce fertilization to once every 6-8 weeks or stop altogether as the plant’s growth slows.
Signs of over-fertilization include leaf burn (brown or crispy edges), rapid but weak growth, and salt buildup on the soil surface. Under-fertilization symptoms include slow growth, smaller new leaves, and overall pale or yellowing foliage.
Organic fertilizer alternatives include compost tea, worm castings, or fish emulsion. These can be applied monthly during the growing season.
Schefflera arboricola doesn’t have any specific nutrient requirements, but it may be prone to iron deficiency in alkaline soils, leading to yellowing leaves with green veins (chlorosis). If this occurs, consider using an iron supplement or adjusting the soil pH.
Watering
The Umbrella Plant (Schefflera arboricola) prefers moderate watering. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings, then water thoroughly until water drains from the bottom of the pot. This plant is more tolerant of underwatering than overwatering.
In terms of water quality, Schefflera arboricola is not particularly fussy. It can tolerate tap water, but if your tap water is hard or heavily chlorinated, consider using filtered or rainwater. Room temperature water is best to avoid shocking the plant’s roots.
Signs of underwatering include drooping leaves, dry and crispy leaf edges, and slow growth. Overwatering symptoms include yellowing leaves, soft and mushy stems near the soil line, and mold on the soil surface.
Watering needs change seasonally. During the growing season (spring and summer), water more frequently as the plant actively grows and uses more water. In fall and winter, reduce watering frequency as the plant’s growth slows. Always check the soil moisture before watering rather than sticking to a strict schedule, as indoor conditions can vary.
Lighting
The Umbrella Plant (Schefflera arboricola) thrives in bright, indirect light. It can tolerate moderate to low light conditions, but growth may slow in less than ideal lighting. Avoid placing the plant in direct sunlight, as this can scorch the leaves.
Signs of insufficient light include elongated stems (etiolation), smaller new leaves, and a general lack of growth. The plant may also lose its variegation if it’s a variegated variety. On the other hand, signs of excessive light exposure include yellowing or browning of leaves, especially on the side facing the light source, and leaf drop.
If natural light conditions are suboptimal, you can supplement with artificial grow lights. Fluorescent or LED grow lights can be used to provide additional light, especially during darker winter months. Place the lights about 6-12 inches above the plant and keep them on for 12-14 hours a day. If the plant is in a too-bright location, move it further from the window or use a sheer curtain to filter the light.
Temperature
The Umbrella Plant (Schefflera arboricola) thrives in temperatures between 60-75Β°F (15-24Β°C). It can tolerate slightly higher temperatures but may struggle in conditions below 55Β°F (13Β°C) or above 80Β°F (27Β°C) for extended periods.
This plant is relatively tolerant of normal indoor temperature fluctuations but should be protected from sudden changes. It’s sensitive to cold drafts from windows or air conditioning units, which can cause leaf drop.
In winter, keep the plant away from cold windows and heating vents. If outdoor temperatures drop below 50Β°F (10Β°C), bring any outdoor Umbrella Plants inside.
To protect from extreme temperatures:
1. In summer, ensure good air circulation and consider moving the plant to a cooler spot if temperatures consistently exceed 80Β°F (27Β°C).
2. In winter, use a humidity tray to counteract the drying effects of indoor heating.
3. Avoid placing the plant near drafty windows or doors.
4. If moving the plant outdoors for summer, acclimate it gradually to prevent shock.
Humidity
The Umbrella Plant (Schefflera arboricola) prefers moderate to high humidity levels, ideally between 40-60%. While it can tolerate average indoor humidity, it thrives in more humid conditions.
To increase humidity, you can use several methods:
1. Misting: Regularly mist the leaves with room temperature water.
2. Pebble tray: Place the pot on a tray filled with pebbles and water, ensuring the pot doesn’t sit directly in the water.
3. Humidifier: Use a room humidifier near the plant.
4. Grouping plants: Place several plants together to create a more humid microclimate.
To decrease humidity if it’s too high, improve air circulation around the plant with a fan or by opening windows.
Symptoms of low humidity stress in Schefflera arboricola include brown leaf tips, leaf curling, and increased leaf drop. High humidity stress is less common but can lead to fungal issues if combined with poor air circulation.
Among the humidifying methods, a pebble tray or a humidifier are often most effective for this species. Misting can be helpful but requires frequent repetition to have a significant impact on humidity levels.
Propagation
Propagating the Umbrella Plant (Schefflera arboricola) can be done through stem cuttings or air layering. Here’s a step-by-step guide for stem cutting propagation:
1. Choose a healthy stem with at least two leaf nodes.
2. Cut the stem at a 45-degree angle, about 4-6 inches long.
3. Remove the lower leaves, leaving only the top 2-3 leaves.
4. (Optional) Dip the cut end in rooting hormone to encourage root growth.
5. Plant the cutting in a pot with well-draining potting mix.
6. Water the soil and place the pot in bright, indirect light.
7. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
8. Cover the pot with a clear plastic bag to maintain humidity, removing it daily for air circulation.
9. Roots should develop in 3-4 weeks. Gently tug on the cutting to check for resistance, indicating root growth.
10. Once roots have established, remove the plastic bag and care for it as a mature plant.
Stem cutting propagation generally has a higher success rate compared to air layering for Schefflera arboricola. The best time to propagate is in spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. It typically takes 4-6 weeks for new plants to establish roots and begin showing new growth.
Potting
The Umbrella Plant (Schefflera arboricola) prefers a pot with good drainage holes. Ceramic, terracotta, or plastic pots are all suitable, with terracotta being particularly good for preventing overwatering as it allows excess moisture to evaporate through the sides.
Choose a pot that’s 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current pot when repotting. The soil should be a well-draining potting mix, as described in the soil section.
Repot your Schefflera arboricola every 2-3 years, or when you notice roots growing out of the drainage holes or the plant becoming top-heavy. Spring is the best time for repotting.
Signs that indicate your Umbrella Plant needs repotting include:
1. Roots growing out of drainage holes
2. Water running straight through the pot when watering
3. Slowed growth or yellowing leaves despite proper care
4. The plant becoming top-heavy or unstable
When repotting, gently remove the plant from its current pot, loosen the root ball, and trim any rotted or excessively long roots. Place the plant in the new pot with fresh potting mix, ensuring it’s at the same depth as it was in the old pot. Water thoroughly after repotting and place in a shaded area for a few days to help it adjust.
Pruning
Best Time for Pruning
The ideal time to prune your Umbrella Plant is during its active growing season, typically in spring or early summer. This allows the plant to recover quickly and produce new growth.
Frequency
Prune as needed to maintain desired shape and size, usually once or twice a year for indoor plants.
Purpose
Pruning helps control size, promote bushier growth, remove dead or diseased parts, and maintain the plant’s attractive appearance.
Tools
Use clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors. Sterilize tools with rubbing alcohol before and after use to prevent disease spread.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Inspect the plant and identify areas that need pruning.
- Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased leaves and stems first.
- To control height, cut back the main stem to the desired length, making the cut just above a leaf node.
- To encourage bushier growth, pinch off the tips of stems, again cutting just above a leaf node.
- For shaping, selectively remove branches that are growing in unwanted directions.
- Step back periodically to assess the overall shape and make adjustments as needed.
- Avoid removing more than 25% of the plant’s foliage in a single pruning session.
Aftercare
After pruning, water the plant thoroughly and place it in a location with bright, indirect light. Reduce fertilization for a few weeks to allow the plant to recover.
Special Considerations
Umbrella Plants can bleed sap when cut. To minimize this, prune in the morning when sap flow is slower. If heavy sap flow occurs, you can seal the cut with a bit of candle wax.
Blooming
The Umbrella Plant rarely blooms indoors. In its natural habitat or under ideal conditions, it may produce small, reddish flowers in late summer or early fall. The blooming period is typically short, lasting a few weeks. Optimal conditions for blooming include bright, indirect light, consistent moisture, and temperatures between 65-80Β°F (18-27Β°C). The flowers are usually inconspicuous and grow in clusters at the end of branches.
Pests and Diseases
Pests
Common issues
Spider mites
Mealybugs
Scale insects
Symptoms
Spider mites: Fine webbing on leaves, tiny moving dots, yellowing leaves
Mealybugs: White, cottony masses on stems and leaf joints
Scale: Small, brown, shell-like bumps on stems and leaves
Treatment
Isolate infected plants
Wipe leaves with a damp cloth to remove pests
Apply neem oil or insecticidal soap
For severe infestations, use systemic insecticides
Diseases
Common issues
Root rot
Leaf spot
Powdery mildew
Symptoms
Root rot: Wilting, yellowing leaves, soft and brown roots
Leaf spot: Brown or black spots on leaves
Powdery mildew: White, powdery substance on leaves
Treatment
Root rot: Remove affected parts, repot in fresh, well-draining soil, reduce watering
Leaf spot: Remove affected leaves, improve air circulation, avoid overhead watering
Powdery mildew: Increase air circulation, apply fungicide if severe
Special Features
The Umbrella Plant (Schefflera arboricola) is known for its air-purifying qualities, helping to remove indoor air pollutants. Its unique, umbrella-like leaf structure adds a tropical flair to any space. Some varieties offer variegated leaves, providing additional visual interest. The plant’s adaptability to various light conditions makes it versatile for different indoor environments.
Plant Benefits
While not typically used for herbal or pharmaceutical purposes, the Umbrella Plant (Schefflera arboricola) is known for its air-purifying qualities. It can help remove indoor air pollutants such as formaldehyde, benzene, and toluene, contributing to a healthier indoor environment. However, it’s important to note that the plant is toxic if ingested, so its benefits are primarily environmental rather than medicinal.
Additional Information
The Umbrella Plant is often confused with its larger relative, Schefflera actinophylla, which is also called an Umbrella Tree but can grow much larger. In some tropical regions, Schefflera arboricola can become invasive if planted outdoors, so it’s best kept as an indoor plant in most areas.
Life Cycle
The Umbrella Plant (Schefflera arboricola) is an evergreen perennial. In its natural habitat, it can live for many years, potentially decades. As a houseplant, with proper care, it can thrive for 20 years or more. It grows relatively quickly under ideal conditions, potentially adding 12-24 inches of height per year when young. Growth slows as the plant matures. The plant doesn’t have a dormant period but growth does slow in winter. It rarely flowers or produces fruit indoors, focusing its energy on foliage growth instead.
Are Umbrella Plant Poisonous, Toxic
The Umbrella Plant (Schefflera arboricola) is toxic to cats, dogs, and humans if ingested. All parts of the plant contain calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause irritation and swelling of the mouth, tongue, and digestive tract. In pets, symptoms of toxicity include drooling, vomiting, difficulty swallowing, and oral pain. In severe cases, it can cause breathing difficulties due to swelling of the throat. For humans, especially children, ingestion can cause similar symptoms, including nausea and digestive discomfort. The severity of the reaction can vary depending on the amount ingested. If ingestion occurs, rinse the mouth thoroughly and seek immediate medical or veterinary attention. To prevent toxicity, keep the plant out of reach of pets and children, and consider alternative, non-toxic plants if you have curious pets or young children in the home.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I water my Umbrella Plant?
Water your Umbrella Plant when the top inch of soil feels dry. This usually means watering once every 1-2 weeks, depending on the environment.
Is the Umbrella Plant toxic to pets?
Yes, the Umbrella Plant is toxic to cats and dogs if ingested. Keep it out of reach of pets.
How much light does an Umbrella Plant need?
Umbrella Plants prefer bright, indirect light but can tolerate moderate to low light conditions.
How do I propagate an Umbrella Plant?
Umbrella Plants can be propagated through stem cuttings or air layering. Stem cuttings are the most common method.
Why are the leaves on my Umbrella Plant turning yellow?
Yellowing leaves can be caused by overwatering, underwatering, low light, or nutrient deficiencies. Check the soil moisture and light conditions first.
How often should I fertilize my Umbrella Plant?
Fertilize your Umbrella Plant every 2-4 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.
How big does an Umbrella Plant grow?
As a houseplant, Umbrella Plants typically grow to 4-8 feet tall, but can be kept smaller with regular pruning.
How do I prune an Umbrella Plant?
Prune your Umbrella Plant in spring or early summer by cutting back long stems to the desired length, just above a leaf node. This encourages bushier growth.
What kind of soil does an Umbrella Plant need?
Umbrella Plants prefer well-draining, fertile soil. A mix of peat moss, perlite, and regular potting soil works well.
How often should I repot my Umbrella Plant?
Repot your Umbrella Plant every 2-3 years, or when it becomes root-bound. Spring is the best time for repotting.
Can I grow Umbrella Plant indoors
Difficulty
Easy
Size
Medium
Light
Medium
Water
Medium
Flowering
No
Pet Safe
No
Air Purifier
Medium
Schefflera arboricola botanical details
Common Name
Umbrella Plant
Other Common Names
Dwarf Umbrella Tree, Parasol Plant, Octopus Tree
Botanical Name
Schefflera arboricola
Native Area
Taiwan and Hainan
Family Name
Araliaceae
Plant Type
Evergreen shrub or small tree
Genus
Schefflera
Kingdom
Plantae
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Is there anything else you can tell me?
Why did the Umbrella Plant refuse to go outside? It didn’t want to leaf its comfort zone!