Dwarf Umbrella Tree (Schefflera arboricola)

Dwarf Umbrella Tree, also commonly known as Schefflera arboricola, or sometimes referred to as the Hawaiian Umbrella Tree, is a popular houseplant recognized for its glossy, palmate leaves that resemble miniature umbrellas. Its compact size and relatively easy care make it an excellent choice for both beginner and experienced plant enthusiasts.

Gardencenterpoint.com offers solutions and comprehensive resources for tending to plants like the Schefflera genus, ensuring your Dwarf Umbrella Tree, or other Schefflera varieties, receives the best possible care. This article includes detailed information on how to care for a Dwarf Umbrella Tree, and also directs you to sources where to buy a Dwarf Umbrella Tree.

What is Dwarf Umbrella Tree (Schefflera Arboricola)?

The Dwarf Umbrella Tree, native to Taiwan and Hainan Province of China, is a tropical evergreen shrub belonging to the Araliaceae family. Unlike its larger cousin, Schefflera actinophylla (the standard Umbrella Tree), Schefflera arboricola typically reaches a maximum height of 3-6 feet indoors, making it ideal for homes and offices. Its leaves are arranged in a circular pattern, with 7-9 leaflets radiating from a central point, creating the characteristic “umbrella” shape.

Common name	Dwarf Umbrella Tree, Hawaiian Umbrella Tree, Octopus Tree
Botanical name	Schefflera arboricola (formerly Heptapleurum arboricola)
Family	Araliaceae
Genus	Schefflera
Species	arboricola
Origin	Taiwan, Hainan (China)
Life cycle	Perennial
Plant type	Evergreen Shrub (often grown as a houseplant)
Hardiness zone	USDA Zones 10-12 (typically grown indoors in cooler climates)
Sunlight	Bright, Indirect Light (tolerates lower light)
Maintenance	Low to Moderate
Water	Moderate (allow top inch of soil to dry between waterings)
Drainage	Well-Drained
Spacing	1-3 ft. (depending on pot size and pruning)
Flowering period	Rarely flowers indoors; insignificant flowers when they do occur.
Height	Typically 3-6 ft. indoors; can reach up to 15 ft. outdoors in ideal conditions.
Growth rate	Moderate
Leaf color	Glossy Green (variegated cultivars have yellow or cream markings)
Stem color	Green, becoming woody with age
Flower benefit	Not significant for flowering.
Garden style	Tropical, Container, Indoor, Houseplant
Uses	Houseplant, Office Plant, Air Purifier, Specimen Plant, Bonsai (with training)
Toxicity	Mildly toxic to humans and pets if ingested.
Air purification	Removes benzene, formaldehyde and toluene.
Humidity	Prefers 40%-60% relative humidity.
Soil pH	Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0-7.0)
Propagation	Stem cuttings, air layering.
Fertilizer	Balanced liquid fertilizer, diluted. Apply during the growing season.

• Growth Habit: Compact and bushy.
• Leaf Color: Typically a vibrant, glossy green. Variegated cultivars exist, featuring splashes of yellow or cream.
• Light Requirements: Bright, indirect light. Can tolerate lower light conditions but may become leggy.
• Watering Needs: Moderate. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings.
• Temperature Preference: Thrives in average room temperatures (65-75°F / 18-24°C).
• Humidity Needs: Prefers moderate to high humidity.
• Toxicity: Mildly toxic to pets and humans if ingested. Keep out of reach of children and animals.

A study published in the Journal of Environmental Horticulture highlighted the air-purifying qualities of many houseplants, including Schefflera species. They effectively remove common indoor pollutants like benzene, formaldehyde, and toluene, contributing to a healthier indoor environment. This adds another reason to the long list for its popularity.

Care Guide for Dwarf Umbrella Tree

Providing the correct care for your Dwarf Umbrella Tree ensures its vibrant growth and longevity. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Light Requirements

• Bright, Indirect Light is Key: Place your Dwarf Umbrella Tree near a window that receives bright, indirect sunlight. East-facing windows are often ideal. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.
• Assessing Light Levels: If the leaves start to yellow or drop, it might indicate insufficient light. Conversely, brown, crispy edges suggest too much direct sun.
• Artificial Light as a Supplement: If natural light is limited, you can supplement with grow lights. Full-spectrum LED grow lights are energy-efficient and provide the necessary wavelengths for photosynthesis. Aim for 12-14 hours of light per day under grow lights.
  • Example: A study by the University of Georgia found that Schefflera arboricola plants grown under supplemental LED lighting showed significantly improved growth and leaf color compared to those grown in low-light conditions.

Watering

• “Soak and Dry” Method: Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Ensure water drains freely from the pot’s drainage holes.
• Avoid Overwatering: Overwatering is a common problem that can lead to root rot. Signs of overwatering include yellowing leaves, wilting, and a mushy stem base.
• Water Quality Matters: Use filtered water or rainwater if possible, as tap water can contain minerals that build up in the soil over time.
• Seasonal Adjustments: Reduce watering frequency during the winter months when the plant’s growth slows down.

Soil and Potting

• Well-Draining Potting Mix: Use a well-draining potting mix that retains some moisture but doesn’t become waterlogged. A mix of peat moss, perlite, and pine bark is a good option.
  • Example Recipe:
    • 2 parts peat moss (or coco coir)
    • 1 part perlite
    • 1 part pine bark fines
• Choosing the Right Pot: Select a pot with drainage holes to prevent water from accumulating at the bottom. A pot that is slightly larger than the root ball is ideal. Terracotta pots are a good choice as they allow for better air circulation around the roots.
• Repotting: Repot your Dwarf Umbrella Tree every 2-3 years, or when it becomes root-bound. Spring is the best time for repotting.

Temperature and Humidity

• Ideal Temperature Range: Maintain a consistent temperature between 65-75°F (18-24°C). Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations and drafts.
• Humidity is Crucial: Dwarf Umbrella Trees thrive in moderate to high humidity levels (around 40-60%).
• Increasing Humidity:
  • Pebble Tray: Place the pot on a tray filled with pebbles and water. Make sure the pot isn’t sitting directly in the water.
  • Humidifier: Use a humidifier to increase the humidity in the room.
  • Grouping Plants: Group plants together to create a more humid microclimate.
  • Misting: Mist the leaves regularly with water, especially during dry periods.

Fertilizing

• Balanced Fertilizer: Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength.
• Feeding Schedule: Fertilize every 2-4 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Reduce or stop fertilizing during the winter.
• Signs of Over-Fertilizing: Salt buildup on the soil surface, brown leaf tips, and stunted growth.
• Organic Options: Consider using organic fertilizers like compost tea or seaweed extract.

Pruning and Shaping

• Regular Pruning: Prune your Dwarf Umbrella Tree to maintain its shape and size, and to encourage bushier growth.
• Pinching Back New Growth: Pinch back the growing tips to promote branching.
• Removing Leggy Growth: Cut back any leggy stems to encourage new growth from the base of the plant.
• Sterilize Your Tools: Always use clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors to prevent the spread of disease.

Propagation

Stem Cuttings are the easiest method. Air layering is for larger stems.

Stem Cutting.

• Select a Healthy Stem: Choose a stem that is 4-6 inches long and has several leaves.
• Make a Clean Cut: Cut the stem just below a node (the point where a leaf or branch grows).
• Remove Lower Leaves: Remove the leaves from the bottom 2 inches of the cutting.
• Rooting Hormone (Optional): Dip the cut end in rooting hormone to encourage root development.
• Planting the Cutting: Plant the cutting in a small pot filled with moist, well-draining potting mix.
• Create a Humid Environment: Cover the pot with a plastic bag or place it in a propagator to maintain high humidity.
• Provide Indirect Light: Place the pot in a location with bright, indirect light.
• Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged.
• Root Development: Roots should develop within 4-6 weeks. Once roots have formed, you can transplant the cutting into a larger pot.

Air Layering.

• Choose a healthy stem
• Make an upward cut. Insert a toothpick.
• Apply rooting hormone.
• Wrap with moist sphagnum moss.
• Cover with plastic wrap.
• Secure with ties.
• Wait for roots.
• Cut and plant.

Common Problems and Solutions

Even with the best care, Dwarf Umbrella Trees can sometimes encounter problems. Here are some common issues and how to address them:

Pest Infestations

• Common Pests: Spider mites, mealybugs, scale insects, and aphids.
• Signs of Infestation: Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, sticky residue (honeydew), webbing (spider mites), visible insects.
• Treatment:
  • Insecticidal Soap: Apply insecticidal soap to the affected areas, following the product instructions.
  • Neem Oil: Neem oil is another effective organic treatment.
  • Manual Removal: For small infestations, you can manually remove the pests with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.
  • Isolation: Isolate the infested plant to prevent the pests from spreading to other plants.

Diseases

• Root Rot: Caused by overwatering and poorly draining soil. Symptoms include yellowing leaves, wilting, and a mushy stem base.
  • Treatment: Remove the plant from its pot, trim away any affected roots, and repot in fresh, well-draining soil. Reduce watering frequency.
• Leaf Spot Diseases: Fungal or bacterial infections that cause spots on the leaves.
  • Treatment: Improve air circulation, avoid overhead watering, and remove affected leaves. Fungicides can be used in severe cases.

Environmental Issues

• Leaf Drop: Can be caused by sudden changes in temperature, drafts, overwatering, underwatering, or insufficient light.
  • Solution: Identify the underlying cause and adjust your care accordingly.
• Yellowing Leaves: Often a sign of overwatering, nutrient deficiency, or pest infestation.
• Brown Leaf Tips: Usually caused by low humidity, dry air, or salt buildup from fertilizer.
  • Solution: Improve humidity and consider switching the fertilizer used.

Varieties of Dwarf Umbrella Tree

While the standard green Dwarf Umbrella Tree is the most common, several cultivars offer variations in leaf color and pattern:

• Schefflera arboricola ‘Gold Capella’: Features bright green leaves with golden yellow variegation.
• Schefflera arboricola ‘Variegata’: Has green leaves with creamy white or yellow variegation.
• Schefflera arboricola ‘Renate’: Compact variety with deeply lobed leaves.
• Schefflera arboricola ‘Trinette’: Features creamy-yellow and green variegated leaves.
• Schefflera arboricola ‘Dazzle’: A variegated variety with bright white and green foliage.

Purchasing Dwarf Umbrella Tree

• Local Nurseries: Check your local nurseries and garden centers. They often have a selection of Dwarf Umbrella Trees and can offer advice on choosing a healthy plant. Look for plants with vibrant foliage and no signs of pests or diseases.
• Online Retailers: Several online retailers specialize in houseplants. Be sure to read reviews and choose a reputable seller.
• Big Box Stores: Big box stores like Home Depot and Lowe’s also carry Dwarf Umbrella Trees, but the selection and quality may vary.
• Gardencenterpoint.com Suggestion: Gardencenterpoint.com provides links to reputable sellers.

Integrating Dwarf Umbrella Trees into Home Decor

Dwarf Umbrella Trees are versatile plants that can complement a variety of interior design styles.

• Focal Point: Use a larger Dwarf Umbrella Tree as a focal point in a room.
• Shelf Accent: Smaller plants can be placed on shelves, tables, or desks.
• Grouping: Create a lush, tropical display by grouping Dwarf Umbrella Trees with other houseplants.
• Hanging Baskets: Some smaller varieties can be grown in hanging baskets.
• Office Greenery: Add a touch of nature to your workspace.

Advanced Care Tips and Tricks

• Air layering: To get a “bushier” effect.
• Bonsai: Dwarf umbrella trees can be used for bonsai.

Schefflera Arboricola vs. Heptapleurum Arboricola

The botanical classification of the Dwarf Umbrella Tree has undergone some revisions over time, leading to occasional confusion regarding its scientific name. You may encounter it labeled as both Schefflera arboricola and Heptapleurum arboricola. Understanding the difference, or rather, the relationship, is key to avoiding confusion and ensuring you’re getting the plant you desire.

For many years, the Dwarf Umbrella Tree was classified under the genus Heptapleurum. However, advancements in botanical research, particularly in DNA analysis, have led to reclassification. The currently accepted scientific name is Schefflera arboricola. Heptapleurum arboricola is now considered a synonym, essentially an older name for the same plant.

Think of it like this: Heptapleurum arboricola is the maiden name, and Schefflera arboricola is the married name. Both refer to the same individual. The change reflects a more accurate understanding of the plant’s evolutionary relationships within the Araliaceae family.

This reclassification isn’t unique to the Dwarf Umbrella Tree. Botanical names are constantly being reviewed and updated as scientific knowledge progresses. The International Plant Names Index (IPNI) and The Plant List are valuable resources for checking the currently accepted scientific names of plants. The Plant List, a working list of all known plant species, was a collaborative project between the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, and the Missouri Botanical Garden. It has since been superseded by the World Flora Online (WFO).

What does this mean for you, the plant enthusiast? It simply means that you might see both names used, particularly in older literature or at some nurseries. However, you can be assured that they refer to the same plant – the compact, umbrella-leaved beauty we’re discussing. It is most crucial when sourcing seeds. Always ensure you are getting the correct seed variety!

To further clarify, let’s break down the terminology:

• Genus: Schefflera (This is the broader group to which the plant belongs. Think of it like a family name.)
• Species: arboricola (This is the specific name for the Dwarf Umbrella Tree within the Schefflera genus.)
• Synonym: A previously used, but no longer scientifically accepted, name for the same plant.

Here’s a table summarizing the key points:

Feature	Schefflera arboricola	Heptapleurum arboricola
Currently Accepted Name	Yes	No (Synonym)
Common Name	Dwarf Umbrella Tree	Dwarf Umbrella Tree
Plant Description	Identical	Identical
Care Requirements	Identical	Identical

The important takeaway is not to be confused by the two names. Focus on the plant’s characteristics and care requirements, which remain consistent regardless of whether it’s labeled as Schefflera arboricola or Heptapleurum arboricola. Gardencenterpoint.com uses the currently accepted scientific name, Schefflera arboricola, to ensure clarity and accuracy, but will also mention Heptapleurum arboricola.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• How often should I water my Dwarf Umbrella Tree? Water when the top inch of soil is dry. This typically translates to once a week, but it can vary depending on environmental factors.
• Is the Dwarf Umbrella Tree toxic to pets? Yes, it is mildly toxic to cats and dogs if ingested. Keep it out of reach.
• Can I put my Dwarf Umbrella Tree outside? During the warmer months (above 60°F), you can place your Dwarf Umbrella Tree outdoors in a shaded or partially shaded location. Be sure to bring it indoors before temperatures drop.
• How can I tell if my Dwarf Umbrella Tree is getting enough light? Look for strong, upright growth and vibrant green leaves. Leggy growth and yellowing leaves can indicate insufficient light.
• My Dwarf Umbrella Tree’s leaves are turning yellow. Why? Check for root rot, too much or too little watering, bugs, or low humidity.

The Dwarf Umbrella Tree is a rewarding and relatively low-maintenance houseplant that can bring a touch of the tropics to your home. By following the care guidelines outlined in this guide, you can ensure your plant thrives for years to come. Remember to observe your plant regularly, adjust your care as needed, and enjoy the beauty and air-purifying benefits it provides.

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We encourage you to explore the diverse world of plants available at Gardencenterpoint.com. Discover new favorites and expand your gardening knowledge. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, Gardencenterpoint is here to support you every step of the way. And don’t forget to check our guides for other great house plants, like the Fiddle Leaf Fig, or the Snake Plant. We also have many articles reviewing common garden pests, and how to combat them organically.