Umbrella Tree
schefflera heptaphylla
Also known as: ["Starleaf","Octopus Tree"]
Overview
A tropical evergreen tree or large shrub with distinctive palmately compound leaves arranged in an umbrella-like fashion.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","fast growing"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Apiales |
| Family: | Araliaceae |
| Genus: | Schefflera |
| Botanical Name: | Schefflera heptaphylla |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright room or shaded outdoor area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, but beneficial during dry periods
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months or after significant growth.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; can prune back up to one-third of growth if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light 6–8 hours/day; tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light, protect from scorching, adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
bright indirect light to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; move outdoors in spring/summer for stronger light.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly until it drains, allow soil to dry between waterings, avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a cactus mix as base; avoid heavy garden soil; topdress with compost occasionally.
Temperature
Ideal range 65–85°F (18–29°C); prefers stable temperatures, avoid drafts or sudden changes.
Avoid placing near vents; maintain stable temps; protect from frost.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or soil.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting, remove lower leaves, apply hormone (optional), place in medium, keep moist.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity, indirect light, warm temperatures (70–75°F).
Medium
Well-draining mix like perlite and peat moss, or water propagation.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 3–6 weeks; new growth in 2–4 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, container, water or soil medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy parent stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain consistent moisture.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips, cut just above leaf nodes, remove leggy stems.
Pruning Plan
Shape plant, encourage bushier growth, remove dead/damaged foliage.
Tools
Clean pruners or sharp scissors, disinfectant.
Checklist
Sanitize tools, prune during active growth, remove dead leaves, shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, use fresh well-draining soil, ensure proper drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the pot; promotes fresh soil and root health.
Checklist
Check root bound status, prepare new pot, use fresh soil, water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensure even moisture distribution, allow excess water to drain, water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage, incorporate organic matter for fertility, ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, yellowing, stunted growth, or browning leaf edges.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf drop, may lead to root damage in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer spot, insulate from drafts, avoid cold water, use a space heater if needed.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, dehydration, or reduced vigor in extreme heat.
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, water more frequently, ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase, use diluted fertilizer, apply to moist soil, rinse pot periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); reduce or stop in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are susceptible to the toxic effects of Schefflera heptaphylla, primarily due to the calcium oxalate crystals. Ingestion can result in severe oral and gastrointestinal irritation, leading to discomfort and potential health complications.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Schefflera heptaphylla can cause gastrointestinal distress due to the presence of calcium oxalate crystals. These crystals can lead to irritation and inflammation of the mouth, throat, and digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicSchefflera heptaphylla contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause irritation and inflammation upon ingestion. The plant's toxic compounds interfere with the digestive system and can lead to significant discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Schefflera heptaphylla toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Schefflera heptaphylla?
A: Water when the top inch of soil is dry, typically once a week, adjusting for environmental conditions.
Q: Why are the leaves of my Schefflera turning yellow?
A: Yellow leaves can indicate overwatering, underwatering, or low light conditions. Adjust care accordingly.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Araliaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | bright indirect light to parti |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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