The “duck foot plant,” officially known as Schefflera arboricola, is a popular houseplant with distinctive foliage. Its leaves feature several leaflets radiating from a central point, resembling a duck’s foot, giving it its common name. Also known as the Dwarf Umbrella Tree, it is favored by indoor gardeners for its attractive appearance and straightforward care, contributing to its widespread appeal.
Essential Care for Duck Foot Plants
Light
The Dwarf Umbrella Tree flourishes in bright, indirect light conditions. Placing the plant near an east, west, or south-facing window, filtered by curtains, provides ideal sunlight to maintain its vibrant characteristics. While it can tolerate lower light levels, growth may slow, and the plant might become leggy as it stretches towards a light source. Direct, intense sunlight should be avoided, as it can scorch the leaves and cause yellowing.
Watering
Proper watering is important for the health of your Schefflera arboricola. It is best to allow the top 1-2 inches or top third of the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Water thoroughly until it drains from the pot bottom, then discard excess water to prevent root rot. Both overwatering and underwatering can cause yellowing leaves or leaf drop.
Soil Needs
The Dwarf Umbrella Tree thrives in well-draining soil rich in organic matter. A good potting mix includes equal parts peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite, or quality potting soil mixed with perlite or coarse sand. This ensures proper drainage and aeration, as roots do not tolerate soggy conditions. Repotting every one to two years with fresh soil helps maintain soil health and nutrient availability.
Temperature and Humidity
Schefflera arboricola prefers consistent, moderate temperatures, ideally 60-75°F (15.5-24°C). These plants are sensitive to extreme temperature fluctuations and cold drafts, which can cause leaves to drop. As a tropical plant, it also appreciates moderate to high humidity (40-60%). To increase humidity, mist the leaves, place the plant on a pebble tray with water, or use a humidifier.
Fertilizing
During the active growing season (spring and summer), the Dwarf Umbrella Tree benefits from regular fertilization. Apply a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer, diluted to half strength, every 2-6 weeks. Water the plant thoroughly before applying fertilizer to prevent root burn. Reduce or cease fertilization during fall and winter when growth naturally slows.
Pruning
Pruning Schefflera arboricola encourages bushier growth and helps manage its size. Trim overgrown or leggy stems by cutting just above a leaf node, where new growth emerges. While pruning can be done anytime, it is most beneficial in spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. Avoid removing more than one-third of the plant at once to prevent undue stress.
Propagating New Duck Foot Plants
Propagating Dwarf Umbrella Trees is achieved through stem cuttings. Select a healthy stem and take a 4-6 inch cutting with at least one leaf node. Remove lower leaves to prevent rot when placed in water or soil.
The cut end can be dipped in rooting hormone, though Schefflera arboricola often roots readily without it. Place the cutting in water or a well-draining potting mix, keeping the medium moist but not waterlogged. Bright, indirect light and warmth encourage root development, typically within several weeks.
Troubleshooting Common Duck Foot Plant Issues
Common issues include yellowing leaves, leaf drop, leggy growth, or brown tips, often indicating improper watering, insufficient light, or low humidity. Common houseplant pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects can affect Schefflera arboricola. Manage these by regularly inspecting the plant and treating infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Safety Considerations for Your Home
The Dwarf Umbrella Tree (Schefflera arboricola) is toxic if ingested. All parts contain insoluble calcium oxalate crystals. Chewing or biting the plant releases these crystals, causing irritation, pain, and swelling in the mouth and gastrointestinal tract of pets (like cats and dogs) and humans. Symptoms in pets may include drooling, pawing at the mouth, decreased appetite, and vomiting. Place this plant out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion.