Umbrella Tree
Glossy leaflets fanned out like the spokes of an umbrella, on a fast-growing plant that becomes a small indoor tree. Tolerant and easy, and one of the best big plants for medium light.
The umbrella tree is the reliable big plant. It grows fast into a bushy small tree, it tolerates medium light and dry air, and it forgives a missed watering. The variegated forms add cream splashes to the glossy green.
Prune it hard whenever it gets leggy; it branches from wherever you cut.
Light
Bright indirect light for full, compact growth. It tolerates medium light well, growing slower and looser. A little morning sun is fine; hot afternoon sun burns the leaflets.
Water
Water when the top two inches are dry, every eight days or so in summer and every two weeks in winter. It drops leaves when overwatered, so lean dry.
Soil and potting
A standard well-draining mix. Repot every couple of years in spring, one size up. A heavy pot for a tall plant.
Feeding
A half-strength balanced feed monthly in spring and summer.
Propagation
Stem cuttings in spring, dipped in rooting hormone and kept warm and humid. Air layering works on thick stems.
In a hot, dry home
A good big plant for a dry home. It tolerates low humidity and AC, and it only asks to be kept out of hot west sun through glass. Wipe the leaflets occasionally; dust dulls the gloss.
Umbrella Tree varieties
Same care, different look. These are the named forms you will see for sale.
- Arboricola (green)
The dwarf umbrella tree with glossy green leaflets.
- Variegated
Leaflets splashed with cream and yellow.
- Moondrop
Rounder, more compact leaflets.
- Trinette
Heavy cream variegation.
- Actinophylla
The large-leaved Queensland umbrella tree, to eight feet indoors.
- Schefflera bonsai
Arboricola trained as a small tree.
Problems and fixes
Leaves dropping
Likely cause: Overwatering, or a cold draft
Fix: Let it dry out more and move it away from vents and doors.
Leggy, sparse growth
Likely cause: Not enough light
Fix: Move nearer a window and prune to encourage branching.
Sticky leaves, small brown bumps
Likely cause: Scale insects
Fix: Wipe with a cloth dipped in soapy water or rubbing alcohol; repeat weekly.
Umbrella Tree questions
Is the umbrella tree toxic to cats and dogs?
Yes. Schefflera contains calcium oxalate crystals that irritate the mouth. Keep it out of reach.
How often should I water an umbrella tree?
Every eight days or so in summer and every two weeks in winter, when the top two inches are dry.
How do I make my umbrella tree bushier?
Prune the stems back; it branches from below each cut. Brighter light also keeps growth compact.
