Schefflera, also known as umbrella plant, comes as a full bush or as a standard, up to around 2 metres tall. It likes bright light out of harsh sun and tolerates the soil drying out now and then.
Umbrella plant, umbrella tree or standard Schefflera
The Schefflera goes by many names. Umbrella plant and umbrella tree refer to the leaflets, which radiate from a single point like the spokes of an umbrella. The best-known species for indoors is the Schefflera arboricola, with small, glossy leaves. The Compacta is a form of it that grows denser and more compact. The Schefflera actinophylla, sometimes sold as Amate, has much larger leaves.
This collection has three forms. An umbrella plant as a bush of 130 to 200 cm, full of leaves from bottom to top. A standard Schefflera of 130 or 150 cm, with a bare trunk topped by a crown. And the Schefflera arboricola Compacta as a 180 or 190 cm tree, in a ø35 or ø45 cm pot.
Position and light
All Scheffleras in this collection like partial shade. They prefer a bright spot, but not harsh midday sun through glass. A spot a few metres from an east or west-facing window works well. If the plant is too dark, the branches become long and bare. Turn the pot a quarter turn now and then so it grows evenly on all sides.
Water and care
A Schefflera is not demanding, but it does not like soggy roots. Here is how to keep it looking good:
Water when the top few centimetres of soil are dry.
Do not leave water standing in the decorative pot or saucer.
Water less in winter, because the plant grows more slowly then.
Wipe the leaves with a damp cloth now and then to keep them glossy.
Pruning is fine. If you cut back long branches, the plant sprouts again below the cut and becomes fuller. More tips on feeding and leaf problems are in our Schefflera care guide. You will find other tough houseplants among the plants for people without green fingers.
Price and delivery
The Scheffleras in this collection cost from €108.95 to €279.95. We measure height from the bottom of the pot to the tallest leaf. Every plant comes in a nursery pot of ø23 to ø45 cm, and you pick a decorative pot separately. In the Netherlands your plant arrives in 4 to 5 working days, upright in a sturdy plant box. Delivery within the Netherlands is free from €99. If anything does get damaged on the way, send us a photo and we will send you a new plant free of charge.
Frequently asked questions
Is a Schefflera toxic?
The Schefflera is considered mildly toxic to cats and dogs. Chewing the leaves can cause irritation in the mouth and an upset stomach. The sap can also irritate the skin. So keep the plant out of reach of pets and young children, and wash your hands after pruning.
How much light does a Schefflera need?
A Schefflera prefers partial shade: bright, but without harsh midday sun through glass. A spot a few metres from the window is ideal. If it is too dark, the branches become long and bare and it loses leaves at the bottom.
How often should you water a Schefflera?
Water when the top few centimetres of potting soil feel dry. In summer that is often once a week, in winter less. Never leave water standing in the decorative pot. Overwatering is the most common reason a Schefflera drops leaves.
Why is my Schefflera losing leaves?
The most common causes are too much water, too little light or draughts. A Schefflera may also drop a few leaves after a move while it gets used to its new spot. First check that the soil is not too wet and that the plant is getting enough light.
What is a Schefflera Compacta?
The Compacta is a form of the Schefflera arboricola that grows denser and more compact, with small, glossy leaves. It is also called a dwarf umbrella tree. At XXLplant you will find it as a 180 and 190 cm tree, in a ø35 or ø45 cm pot.
How often should I water my Schefflera?
A Schefflera needs a moderate amount of water, on average once a week. Let the top layer of potting soil dry out in between and water less in winter. The plant copes better with being a little too dry than too wet.
Is the Schefflera toxic to dogs and cats?
Yes, the Schefflera is toxic to dogs and cats. The plant contains oxalate crystals that can cause mouth irritation, drooling and vomiting if eaten. Keep the plant out of reach of pets that like to nibble.
What is the difference between the Arboricola and the Amate?
A Schefflera Arboricola Compacta has smaller leaves and a dense, compact bushy shape. The Schefflera Amate has larger, broader leaves and grows faster into a robust, lush plant. The Amate fills a space more quickly.
How old can a Schefflera get?
With good care a Schefflera can easily live ten to twenty-five years as a houseplant. Pruning and repotting it regularly keeps it vigorous and compact, so it lasts for years.
Can a Schefflera live in the shade?
Yes, the Schefflera tolerates partial shade well, because in the wild it grows under the rainforest canopy. Still, in a spot that is too dark it becomes leggy and drops leaves. A bright spot with indirect sunlight keeps it looking its best.
