The Schefflera plant, also known as the Umbrella Tree or Dwarf Umbrella Tree, is a popular houseplant. Its attractive, glossy foliage, which fans out like umbrella spokes, makes it a favored choice for indoor greenery. This plant is appreciated for its straightforward care, making it suitable for many plant enthusiasts.
Understanding Your Schefflera
The term “money tree” often causes confusion, as it refers to the Pachira aquatica. While the Schefflera, also known as the Umbrella Tree, is sometimes mistakenly called a money tree, they are distinct plants. The true money tree, Pachira aquatica, usually features braided trunks and leaves arranged in clusters of five. In contrast, Schefflera plants have leaves that radiate outwards from a central point, resembling an umbrella. This visual difference in leaf arrangement easily distinguishes the Schefflera from the Pachira aquatica.
Essential Schefflera Care
Light Requirements
Schefflera plants thrive in bright, indirect light. An ideal spot is near an east, west, or diffused south-facing window. Too much direct sunlight, especially harsh midday sun, can scorch leaves. Insufficient light causes the plant to become leggy, producing sparse, weak growth. This can also lead to yellowing and dropping leaves.
Watering Practices
Proper watering is important for Schefflera health, as they do not tolerate overly wet soil. Water thoroughly when the top inch or two of the soil has dried out. Overwatering is a common problem, leading to yellowing leaves, soft, drooping foliage, and root rot. Root rot causes brown, mushy roots and can lead to leaf drop. Conversely, underwatering results in crispy, brown spots on leaves, or the plant may droop and shed leaves.
Soil and Potting
Schefflera plants prefer a rich, loose, and well-draining potting mix. A good soil blend includes organic matter like peat moss, compost, coco coir, and perlite to ensure proper drainage and aeration. Proper drainage prevents water from pooling around the roots, which can lead to root rot. Always use a pot with drainage holes.
Temperature and Humidity
As tropical plants, Scheffleras prefer warm temperatures, ideally between 60°F and 75°F (15°C to 24°C). They tolerate slightly cooler temperatures but should not be exposed to temperatures below 50°F (10°C), as this can cause stress and leaf drop. Sudden temperature changes or cold drafts from vents also cause distress. Scheffleras appreciate higher humidity, with ideal levels ranging from 30-60%. If indoor air is dry, increase humidity with a humidifier or a pebble tray.
Fertilization
Schefflera plants benefit from regular fertilization during their active growing season, typically spring and summer. A balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 ratio, applied every two to four weeks, is suitable. Dilute the fertilizer to half strength. Reduce or stop fertilization entirely during the fall and winter months when the plant’s growth naturally slows.
Pruning and Shaping Your Schefflera
Pruning your Schefflera helps maintain its size, encourages bushier growth, and removes leggy or damaged stems. Leggy growth often indicates insufficient light. When pruning, make cuts just above a leaf node or where new growth should emerge. Use clean, sharp pruning shears for cuts that heal quickly. Regular pruning shapes the plant, preventing it from becoming too tall or sparse.
Repotting Your Schefflera
Repotting is needed when the plant becomes root-bound, its growth slows, or the soil depletes. Signs of being root-bound include roots growing out of drainage holes or circling tightly within the pot. Repot Scheffleras every one to three years, ideally in the spring. Choose a container one size larger than the current one, ensuring it has ample drainage holes. Gently remove the plant, loosen any circling roots, and replant it with fresh, well-draining potting mix.
Propagating Schefflera
Schefflera plants propagate well from stem cuttings. Take a 4- to 6-inch stem section, ensuring it has a few leaves at the top. Remove any lower leaves. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone before planting into moistened potting soil or placing in water to root. Place cuttings in bright, indirect light and maintain consistent moisture until new roots and growth appear.
Common Problems and Solutions
Schefflera plants can experience several issues, often stemming from improper care.
Watering Problems
Overwatering leads to yellowing, soft leaves, drooping foliage, and root rot. Root rot is indicated by mushy, brown roots and a foul smell. Underwatering causes crispy, brown spots and leaf droop. Adjust watering to allow the topsoil to dry between waterings.
Environmental Stress
Insufficient light can cause leggy growth, yellowing, and leaf drop. Sudden temperature changes or cold drafts also cause distress and leaf drop. Ensure bright, indirect light and stable temperatures.
Pests
Pests such as spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects can affect Scheffleras. Spider mites create fine webbing, while mealybugs leave a sticky residue. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or by wiping leaves with an alcohol wipe.
Root Rot
Root rot, resulting from overwatering and poor drainage, is indicated by mushy, brown roots and a foul smell. Remove affected roots and repot in fresh, well-draining soil.