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An illustration of a Schefflera arboricola plant with green leaves on a beige background.

Schefflera

SCENTIFIC NAME: Schefflera arboricola

KNOWN AS: Umbrella Plant, Dwarf Schefflera, Gold Capella

CLIMATE (LOCATION): Australia, Taiwan | Subtropical

DESCRIPTION: This plant has small leaves that look like bursts of green (or sometimes yellow if it is a variegated specimen). You can find this plant as either a small bush or a tall tree.

Easy difficulty & pet toxic

Schefflera Plant Care

Lighting

Light Requirement: Medium Light (Medium Indirect Light) to High Light (Bright Indirect Light)

Achieving optimal lighting conditions is crucial for the well-being of your Schefflera plant. Place your Schefflera near a bright window that receives indirect sunlight. North or east-facing windows provide the ideal balance of light without subjecting the plant to intense rays that can scorch its leaves. Schefflera plants tend to grow towards the light source, leading to uneven development. To encourage balanced growth, rotate your Schefflera plant every few weeks. This simple practice ensures that all sides of the plant receive adequate light, resulting in a symmetrical and visually appealing appearance.

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Watering

Quick Tip: Water until water comes out of drainage holes. Allow top 2 inches of soil to completely dry between waterings.

Schefflera plants require regular watering, but it's crucial to avoid overwatering them. Checking the top inch of soil for dryness before watering a Schefflera plant is the best method for doing so. Give the plant plenty of water, and then let any extra water runoff through the drainage holes in the pot's base. Avoid letting the plant stand in water that is still because this can cause root rot. Also, it's crucial to keep water off of the leaves to prevent damage or fungus growth. The plant may need to be watered more frequently during the growing season and less frequently during the winter.

Temperature

Preferred Temperature: 60º - 75º

Schefflera plants thrive in temperatures that are consistent and moderate. Ideally, they should be grown in temperatures between 60 to 75°F (15.5 to 24°C). These plants do not tolerate extreme temperatures very well, so it's important to avoid exposing them to temperatures below 50°F (10°C) or above 90°F (32°C). Cold drafts and sudden temperature changes can also be detrimental to Schefflera plants. In addition to temperature, Schefflera plants require bright, indirect light and regular watering to maintain healthy growth. With the right care, Schefflera plants can thrive and add beauty to any indoor space.

Humidity

Preferred Humidity: 40 - 60%; Moderate Humidity

Schefflera requires a humidity between 40% and 60%, so the plant doesn't dry out. Use a humidifier to keep the humidity at the level you want. You can make a humidity tray if you don't have a humidifier. Put a shallow tray of water next to the plant and set the Schefflera on it. As the water evaporates, the humidity around the plant will go up. Don't put Schefflera near air vents or other places where dry air comes out, like heaters or air conditioners. Direct airflow can cause the leaves to dry out and fall off. By putting plants together, you can increase the humidity in the room. This is because plants release moisture into the air when they breathe. By putting Schefflera with other houseplants, you can make a mini greenhouse. Mist the Schefflera's leaves often with water that is at room temperature. This will not only make the air more humid, but it will also get rid of dust and make the leaves look better.

Additional Plant Care

Propagation
Schefflera plants can be made more of by cutting off pieces of their stems or by dividing the parent plant. Choose a healthy stem with a few leaves still attached and cut it just below a node. Take off any leaves that are close to the stem's base and leave a few leaves at the top. Dip the cut end into a rooting hormone, plant it in moist soil, and keep it warm and just slightly damp for a few weeks. To divide a plant, take the parent plant out of its pot and use a sharp, clean knife to cut the root ball into two or more pieces. Plant each piece in a new pot with potting soil and give it a good drink of water. Put the new plants in a bright but indirect light, and keep the soil moist until new growth appears. Schefflera plants can also make suckers, which can be taken off and replanted in the same way. Keep the soil moist but not soggy, and the new plant should start to grow in a few weeks. Then you can take care of it like you would a full-grown Schefflera.
Toxicity
The Schefflera plant is considered to be toxic to humans and pets if ingested. The plant contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause irritation and discomfort if chewed or swallowed. If someone ingests parts of the Schefflera plant, it may lead to symptoms such as mouth and throat irritation, swelling, difficulty swallowing, and potential gastrointestinal distress. It's important to note that reactions can vary depending on the individual and the amount ingested. If ingestion of the Schefflera plant occurs or if someone exhibits severe symptoms, it's crucial to seek immediate medical attention or contact a poison control center. They can provide guidance tailored to the situation and offer appropriate advice. When it comes to pets, the Schefflera plant is also considered toxic to dogs and cats. Ingesting the plant can cause similar symptoms, including mouth and throat irritation, drooling, vomiting, and potential gastrointestinal issues. If you suspect your pet has ingested the Schefflera plant, it's best to contact a veterinarian for guidance.
Repotting
Schefflera likes soil that drains well and has a lot of organic matter. When your Schefflera is actively growing in the spring is the best time to move it to a new pot. First, choose a pot that is one size bigger than the one you have now and has holes in the bottom to let water out. Next, take the plant out of its old pot and loosen any roots that are stuck together. Place the plant in the middle of the new pot and fill the bottom with fresh potting soil. Fill in the spaces around the plant with more potting soil, leaving about an inch of space at the top. Give the plant a lot of water and put it somewhere with bright, indirect light so it can get better. It's important not to give the plant too much water right after repotting because that could cause root rot. Don't water again until the top inch of the soil has dried out.
Pruning
For Schefflera plants, the best way to prune is to use a clean, sharp pair of scissors or pruning shears to cut back any overgrown or weak stems to just above a leaf node. This will help the plant grow new leaves and keep its shape and size. Schefflera plants will also do better if you take off any leaves or stems that are yellow or damaged. It's important to make clean cuts and not tear or hurt the tissue around them. You should prune the plant when it's growing, which is usually from spring to early fall. Don't prune it in the winter, when it's not growing. Schefflera plants can also get bushy, so it's important to thin out any stems that are too close together or overlap to help them grow well and keep their shape. Schefflera plants can look full and healthy if they are pruned on a regular basis. It's important to know that Schefflera plants sometimes have sap that can irritate the skin. To protect your hands, it's best to wear gloves when pruning.
Fertilizing
To feed a Schefflera plant, choose a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Before you put the fertilizer on the plant, you should water it well and dilute the fertilizer to half the recommended strength. Apply the fertilizer to the soil around the plant's base with a watering can or spray bottle. Be careful not to get any on the leaves or stems, as it can burn them. During the growing season, which usually lasts from spring to early fall, do this every two to three weeks. Don't give the plant fertilizer when it's dormant in the winter. Too much fertilizer can hurt the plant, so it's important to follow the directions on the package and not use too much. If the leaves start to turn brown or black, cut back on how often you fertilize or make the solution less strong. You can also follow the instructions on the package and use a slow-release fertilizer once every three to four months. Schefflera plants can grow well and have bright leaves if they are fertilized regularly.
Soil
Schefflera plants do best in soil that drains well and has a lot of organic matter. Equal parts of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite make a good soil mix for Schefflera plants. You can also use good-quality potting soil mixed with perlite or coarse sand. Schefflera plants don't like to be overwatered, so the soil should always be moist but not soaked. During the growing season, the soil should also be fertilized often to help plants grow well.

Hanging Heights

Schefflera Lighting Requirements: Medium Light (Medium Indirect Light) to High Light (Bright Indirect Light)

Chart showing recommended hanging heights for Soltech Aspect and popular plants for each range.

Aspect Hanging Heights - Schefflera

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Soltech's Recommendation -

24" to 48"

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VIEW ASPECT GROW GUIDE

Vita Hanging Heights - Schefflera

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Soltech's Recommendation -

36º Narrow Beam Vita : 24" to 60"

60º Wide Beam Vita : 12" to 36"

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VIEW VITA GROW GUIDE

Highland Hanging Heights - Schefflera

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Soltech's Recommendation -

36º Narrow Beam Highland : 30" to 66"

60º Wide Beam Highland : 18" to 48"

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VIEW HIGHLAND GROW GUIDE

Grove Hanging Heights - Schefflera

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Soltech's Recommendation:

  • 1" to 12"

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VIEW GROVE GROW GUIDE

Lighting guide for plants with Soltech Aura and potted plants on a neutral background

Aura Light Distances - Schefflera

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Soltech's Recommendation:

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VIEW AURA GROW GUIDE

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