Where to Plant Schefflera

Schefflera is primarily grown as a houseplant, but it can also be moved outdoors during the summer. Keep it away from cold drafts, including those from air-conditioning vents, because it does not tolerate cold air well.

When moving schefflera outdoors, place it in a location where it can receive direct sunlight.

Before acquiring a new plant, make sure your environment meets its needs. Not every plant will do well in every location.

Schefflera Care Tips

Light

Schefflera grows best in bright, indirect light. Place it near a sunny south- or west-facing window for strong growth.

It can also tolerate medium light, although growth may be slower.

Soil and Water

Use a rich, well-draining potting mix.

Allow the top layer of soil to dry before watering again. Schefflera tolerates relatively dry conditions, making it a suitable houseplant for people who may occasionally miss a watering.

After watering, empty excess water from the saucer to prevent waterlogged soil.

Temperature and Humidity

Schefflera prefers daytime temperatures between 65°F and 75°F.

Nighttime temperatures should remain above 50°F.

The plant prefers relatively high humidity, around 60%.

When grown outdoors, schefflera is winter hardy in USDA Zones 10–12.

Fertilizer

Schefflera generally grows well without fertilizer.

For faster growth, an all-purpose houseplant fertilizer can be applied during spring and summer. Always follow the application instructions provided with the fertilizer.

Pruning

Schefflera can grow quickly and may add several inches of growth each year. Plants that spend the summer outdoors may grow 1–2 feet taller.

To control its size indoors, prune schefflera at any time of year by cutting stems back by up to two-thirds. Pruning also encourages fuller, bushier growth.

Potting and Repotting Schefflera

Use a container with large drainage holes. Both plastic and terra-cotta pots work well.

Repot schefflera when its roots fill the container, generally every 1–2 years, depending on its growth rate.

If you want to slow its growth, you can keep it in its existing pot for longer.

When repotting:

1. Gently remove the plant from its container.
2. If it is severely root-bound and difficult to remove, soak the pot in water for about 30 minutes.
3. Transfer the plant to a slightly larger container.
4. Fill around the roots with fresh, well-draining potting mix.
5. Water thoroughly after planting.

How to Propagate Schefflera

Schefflera can be propagated using stem cuttings.

1. Select a stem containing several nodes, where the leaves attach to the stem.
2. Dip the cut end into rooting hormone powder.
3. Plant the cutting a couple of inches deep in a 4-inch container filled with moist potting mix.
4. Keep the soil evenly moist.
5. Once new growth appears and the cutting no longer moves when gently touched, roots have likely developed.
6. Transplant the rooted cutting into a larger container.

Pests and Problems

Schefflera is generally relatively resistant to pests, but it can occasionally attract:

• Mealybugs
• Mites
• Scale insects

These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap.

The most common growing problems are overwatering and underwatering. Make sure the container drains properly because waterlogged soil can lead to root rot.

Types of Schefflera

Umbrella Tree

Schefflera actinophylla, also known as Australian umbrella tree, is a popular schefflera species.

Its large leaflets can reach approximately 10 inches long. Wiping or dusting the leaves occasionally helps keep them glossy.

Although it can grow into a large tree outdoors, several plants are often grown together in one indoor pot to create a fuller appearance.

Dwarf Umbrella Tree

Schefflera arboricola has smaller, thicker leaflets measuring approximately 2–4 inches long.

It generally reaches a mature height of around 3–4 feet. Like Schefflera actinophylla, its leaflets radiate from a central point, resembling the spokes of an umbrella.

False Aralia

Schefflera elegantissima has narrow, saw-toothed green leaves and an upright growth habit.

The young leaves begin with a coppery-red color and mature into a dark, almost blackish green.

'Gold Capella' Schefflera

Schefflera arboricola 'Gold Capella' has dark-green leaves decorated with vibrant golden-yellow variegation.

'Green Gold' Dwarf Schefflera

Schefflera arboricola 'Green Gold' features leaves with a prominent, broad gold-colored central band.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does a schefflera plant flower?

Yes, schefflera can flower, although flowering is uncommon when grown indoors as a houseplant. When flowering occurs, the blooms appear in small clusters of spikes and may be white, red, or pink, depending on the variety.

Why are the leaves of my umbrella plant turning yellow?

Yellow leaves can result from several conditions, including:

• Overwatering
• Cold temperatures
• Insufficient light
• Improper fertilization

Adjusting the plant's growing conditions can often help resolve the problem.