The “finger plant” commonly refers to Schefflera arboricola, also known as the Dwarf Umbrella Tree. This popular houseplant is admired for its distinctive foliage, which resembles the spokes of an umbrella. Its straightforward care makes it a favored choice for enhancing indoor spaces.
Identifying the Finger Plant
Schefflera arboricola is characterized by glossy, palmate leaves, with 7 to 9 oval-shaped leaflets radiating from a central point, creating an umbrella-like appearance. This evergreen shrub, native to Taiwan and Hainan Province, China, can reach 10 to 25 feet in its natural tropical habitat, but typically grows 3 to 6 feet tall indoors. Upright stems support its dense foliage. Common varieties include variegated forms with splashes of cream or gold on the green leaflets.
Caring for Your Finger Plant
Light Needs
Schefflera arboricola thrives in bright, indirect light. An east or west-facing window is ideal, providing ample light without harsh direct sun that can scorch leaves. While it tolerates lower light, growth may slow, and the plant might become leggy. Rotate the plant periodically for even growth.
Watering Practices
Proper watering is crucial, as the finger plant is sensitive to overwatering. Water when the top 50-75% of the soil feels dry to the touch. Provide enough water for it to flow from the drainage holes, moistening the entire root ball. Discard any excess water from the saucer to prevent root rot. During winter, reduce watering frequency as growth slows.
Soil and Potting
A well-draining potting mix is essential for Schefflera arboricola to prevent waterlogging and root rot. A suitable mix includes high-quality potting soil combined with amendments to enhance drainage and aeration, such as:
- Perlite
- Coarse sand
- Peat moss
- Coco coir
Repotting is generally needed every one to two years, or when roots emerge from the drainage holes, indicating the plant is root-bound. When repotting, select a container one to two inches larger in diameter than the current pot, ensuring it has drainage holes.
Temperature and Humidity
As a tropical plant, Schefflera arboricola prefers warm temperatures, ideally 60°F to 75°F (16°C to 24°C). Protect the plant from cold drafts and sudden temperature fluctuations, which can cause stress and leaf drop. While it tolerates average household humidity, it thrives in moderate to high levels. To increase humidity, consider misting the foliage, placing the pot on a pebble tray with water, or using a humidifier.
Fertilizing
During its active growing season (spring and summer), a finger plant benefits from regular fertilization. Apply a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer monthly. Do not fertilize during fall and winter when growth naturally slows. Avoid over-fertilization, as it can harm the plant.
Pruning and Shaping
Pruning Schefflera arboricola maintains its size, encourages a bushier shape, and removes dead or unhealthy foliage. Indoor plants can be pruned any time, though late winter or early spring, before new growth, is ideal. When pruning, make cuts just above a leaf node or branch fork using clean, sharp shears. This encourages new growth, leading to a denser plant. If a plant becomes leggy, cutting back tall stalks promotes a more compact appearance.
Propagating Finger Plants
Propagating Schefflera arboricola is achieved through stem cuttings. Select healthy stems 4 to 6 inches long with at least two nodes. Remove lower leaves to expose the nodes, as roots emerge from these points. Cuttings can be rooted in water or directly in a moist, well-draining potting mix. If rooting in water, change it weekly. Place cuttings in a warm area with bright, indirect light; roots typically develop within a few weeks. Covering cuttings with a plastic bag helps maintain high humidity, aiding successful rooting.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Several issues can affect a finger plant. Yellowing leaves often signal improper watering, particularly overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Conversely, yellow and dry leaves indicate underwatering. Browning leaf tips or crispy edges usually point to low humidity or inconsistent watering. Leaf drop can occur due to sudden environmental changes, such as shifts in light, temperature, or watering routines. Pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects can infest Schefflera arboricola. These sap-sucking pests cause yellowing leaves and may leave a sticky residue. Regularly inspecting the plant, especially the undersides of leaves, aids early detection. Treating infestations often involves wiping leaves with a damp cloth or applying insecticidal soap.
Toxicity Concerns
Schefflera arboricola contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals in its leaves and stems. If ingested, these crystals can cause irritation and a burning sensation in the mouth, lips, and throat. Symptoms include:
- Excessive drooling
- Oral pain
- Vomiting
- Difficulty swallowing
While serious systemic effects are rare, keep the plant out of reach of children and pets. Wearing gloves when handling the plant during pruning or repotting can prevent skin irritation from the sap.