VLoveof Nature

Dwarf umbrella tree

Heptapleurum arboricola

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Dwarf umbrella tree · Heptapleurum arboricola

Hand-like leaflets and a tidy habit make an easy pot plant for bright rooms.

Care and placement

Prefers bright indirect light, tolerates medium light; water when the top 2–3 cm is dry; suits 15–24 °C and should not go below about 13 °C (55 °F).

Draft mature dimensions

Maximum height (cm): 150 cm · Maximum spread (cm): 100 cm

Things to consider

Schefflera/Heptapleurum contains calcium oxalate crystals: toxic to dogs and cats, causing mouth irritation, drooling and vomiting (ASPCA). Keep pets and children from chewing leaves.

Unknown evidence does not mean safe. Decorative plants are not automatically edible.

Information is compiled from multiple reputable sources for reference. If you spot an error, please contact us so we can check and update it.

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How to grow and care for it

  1. Planting and pot

    Plant in a well-draining pot with a loose mix. Repot every 2–3 years or when roots circle the bottom.

  2. Light

    Bright indirect light; variegated types need more to keep colour. Harsh sun bleaches and crisps leaves.

  3. Watering

    Water when the top 2–3 cm is dry, drench, then empty the saucer; cut back by about a third when cool. Overwatering drops leaves within 1–2 weeks.

  4. Feeding

    Balanced liquid feed at half strength monthly while growing; none from late autumn to late winter. Excess gives oversized dark leaves on weak, elongated stems.

  5. Pruning

    Pinch off the top 1–2 cm of each stem in spring to push 2–3 side shoots. A leggy plant can be cut back to about 30 cm above soil; new shoots appear in 4–8 weeks.

  6. Propagation

    Semi-ripe tip cuttings 10–15 cm with 3–4 leaves in spring; cover with a clear bag, roots form in 3–4 weeks. Air layering or seed also work (RHS).

  7. Pests and common problems

    Prone to spider mites, mealybugs and scale; root rot if overwatered; fungal leaf spot and sooty mould occasionally. Inspect regularly and use insecticidal soap or neem oil.

  8. For plentiful, healthy leaves

    For a dense canopy: plenty of bright indirect light, pinch tips each spring, feed lightly on schedule and avoid overwatering. Indoors it rarely flowers or fruits.