Umbrella tree

Also known as: Umbrella tree, Octopus tree, Queensland umbrella tree, Australian ivy palm

Schefflera actinophylla is a fast-growing evergreen tree or large shrub, reaching up to 15 metres in its native habitat but typically 2-3 metres indoors. It features large, palmate leaves with 7-16 glossy, dark green leaflets radiating from a central point, resembling an umbrella. In summer, mature plants produce striking clusters of small red flowers on long, arching stalks, followed by purple-black berries. Its bold, tropical foliage makes it a popular houseplant for bright interiors.

Scientific classification

Species: Umbrella tree (Schefflera actinophylla)
Genus: Schefflera
Family: Araliaceae

Toxic to humans and pets if ingested; contains calcium oxalate crystals that can cause oral irritation, drooling, and vomiting.
Toxicity: Houseplants · Foliage · Tree
Plant type: 1.5 - 2.5 metres (indoor), up to 15 metres in habitat
Height: 1 - 1.5 metres
Spread: Evergreen
Foliage: Upright · Spreading
Habit: Summer
Season of interest: Bright indirect light
Sunlight: Information to be completed
Ideal temperature

Umbrella tree pictures

Distribution of Umbrella tree

Distribution map

Plant distribution

Native
Introduced
Cultivated

Source：WCVP v16 · Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew · CC BY 3.0 · Boundaries：WGSRPD / TDWG

Culture

Information to be completed

Toxicity

Toxic to humans and pets if ingested; contains calcium oxalate crystals that can cause oral irritation, drooling, and vomiting.

Quick identification of Umbrella tree

Information to be completed

Umbrella tree care guide

Moderate regular watering, allowing brief slight drying between soakings
Watering: Bright indirect light
Sunlight: Information to be completed
Ideal temperature

Watering

Moderate regular watering, allowing brief slight drying between soakings

Fertilizing

Balanced perennial feed every four weeks from spring through summer

Pruning

Prune in early spring to control size and shape; remove dead or leggy stems at the base. Pinch out growing tips to encourage bushier growth.

Propagation

Propagate by semi-ripe stem cuttings in late spring or early summer; take 10-15 cm cuttings with at least one node, dip in rooting hormone, and insert in moist perlite or peat-sand mix. Keep at 20-25°C with high humidity and bottom heat. Air layering also works well for larger specimens.

Growing

Grow in bright, indirect light; avoid direct sun which can scorch leaves. Use a well-drained, peat-based potting mix kept evenly moist from spring to autumn, allowing the top 2 cm to dry between waterings in winter. Feed monthly with a balanced liquid fertiliser during the growing season. Maintain high humidity by misting or using a pebble tray; temperatures should be above 15°C year-round. Repot every 2-3 years as growth slows.

More growing and care information →

Common pests and diseases

Diseases

Susceptible to root rot if overwatered; ensure good drainage. Leaf spot and powdery mildew may occur in poor air circulation. Generally resilient if growing conditions are correct.

Pests

May be attacked by spider mites, mealybugs, scale insects, and aphids, especially in dry indoor conditions. Regularly check leaf undersides and treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

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