Just one look at these beautiful tropical indoor plants and you will know why they are also called an umbrella tree. They have very few side shoots or branches, but each ends with a compound leaf that has the leaflets arranged around the center like an umbrella.

Scheffleras are accommodating plants, filling several niches of the indoor environment. While some varieties can grow into large trees that become part of the architecture of a room, others are much more refined. Native to Australia, for years this favorite plant has been known botanically as Schefflera. Even though it has been reclassified (Brassaia), it still keeps that common name. But it can get a little confusing because there are two distinct types of Schefflera. The oldest, best known variety has large leaves, usually with 5-7 leaflets to each leaf. The newer, more compact version, S. arboricola, has smaller, stiffer leaves, usually with 7 or 9 leaflets per leaf. To confuse the issue even further, the two forms are commonly referred to as scheffs (the standard variety) and arbs (short for the species name of the compact variety, arboricola). No matter what form of Schefflera you mean, they all share a wonderful glossy appearance. One of the newest, most striking developments in the Scheffleras is a type of ‘arb’ that is heavily variegated in a random pattern of bright yellow splotches. To select a nice, healthy Schefflera or arboricola look for a plant with strong, glossy foliage. There should be both mature foliage and newly emerging leaves. Stems should be strong and upright.

Tips for Growing Healthy Scheffleras
What are the light requirements for Scheffleras? Ideally, they want strong indirect light most of the day. They will also do well with morning sun. They will survive with less light, but won't look quite as nice.

How much water do they need? Keep the soil moderately moist. Water thoroughly when needed but do not allow the plant to sit in water.

Do they have any special temperature requirements? They do well in average household temperature, but they prefer it cool (55-60º). If temperatures rise above 80º, increase the air circulation and humidity.

Do Scheffleras need much humidity? They like average humidity levels. In the winter when natural humidity is lower, be sure to mist occasionally and keep them near a humidity tray.

How much fertilizer do they require? Feed scheffs about every two or three weeks in the spring and summer with a liquid or water soluble fertilizer such as Excel Gro™. Reduce  to half strength in the fall and winter.

What type of soil do they prefer? They do very well in a peat/loam potting soil such as Bachman's Exceloam. Excellent drainage is very important.

When should I repot my Schefflera? When they are young, scheffs grow very fast and may need to be repotted every 6 months. As they mature and slow down, repot them each spring. When they are very large, just replace the top few inches of soil in spring.

Will they need any grooming? Give them an occasional gentle shower to remove dust build up. Leafshine will help them shed the dust, just don't do it more than once a month.

How are they propagated? Tip cuttings can be rooted. 

Troubleshooting Problems with Scheffleras
What causes some of the leaves to yellow? If the yellow leaves are on the inside or lower parts of the plant, it is probably because the plant has been kept too wet. If they yellow suddenly and then fall, it usually indicates a sudden chill.

Why are some leaves a paler color than others? If the plant isn't getting enough food, the newest leaves will develop a lighter, almost yellow color. If the plant is being fertilized according to directions, check the pH of the soil (they prefer 6.0). When soil pH gets too high or low, the plant is unable to use the available food.

When the plants are lanky and open, what is the problem? Several factors contribute to lanky growth. Most likely, it is too warm. It can also be an indicator of too little light.

If the variegated leaves stop being variegated, what is the cause? Plants often loose their variegation when they are grown with too little light.

If the leaves are droopy, what is wrong? The root mass may have dried out. Submerge the pot in a container of water until  air stops bubbling to the surface, then allow it to drain. If the plant was too dry, it should perk up in a few hours. Occasionally, wilting is an indicator that a plant is being kept too wet, so be sure to check the soil moisture level.

Are there any common insect problems with scheffs? Unfortunately, they are susceptible to several insect problems, especially if they are already stressed. Watch for mealy bugs, scale, aphids and spider mites. Scheffs can be treated with insecticidal soap, horticultural oil or pyrethrins.

Are they prone to any disease problems? As with most foliage plants, the only common disease problem is a root and stem rot from being kept too wet.

Additional Bachman's Information
General Care of Indoor Plants
Easy Foliage Plants
Watering Basics 
Potting Indoor Plants
Signs of Trouble with Indoor Plants

Recommended Products
Quality Foliage Plants in Various Sizes
Bachman's Exceloam Potting Soil
Containers and Saucers
Artificial Lights for Indoor Gardening
Safe and Effective Insecticides
Excel Gro™ Water Soluble Fertilizer

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