Dwarf umbrella tree (*Schefflera arboricola*) is an evergreen, multi-stemmed shrub native to China. It is commonly grown as a houseplant or a garden plant in milder climates for its decorative palmate compound leaves. The leaves contain calcium oxalates, which can damage internal organs when ingested. It shouldn’t be confused with the Australian umbrella tree, *Schefflera actinophylla*.
I. Appearance and CharacteristicsÂ
Heptapleurum arboricola (syn. Schefflera arboricola, Chinese: 鹅掌藤; pinyin: ézhÇŽng téng; lit. ‘goose-sole vine’) is a flowering plant in the family Araliaceae, native to Hainan Province, China and Taiwan. Its common name is dwarf umbrella tree, as it resembles a smaller version of the umbrella tree, Heptapleurum actinophyllum.
It is an evergreen shrub growing to 8–9 m tall, free-standing, or clinging to the trunks of other trees as an epiphyte. The leaves are palmately compound, with 7–9 leaflets, the leaflets 9–20 cm long and 4–10 cm broad (though often smaller in cultivation) with a wedge-shaped base, entire margin, and an obtuse or acute apex, sometimes emarginate. The leaves are leathery in texture, shiny green, glabrous on the upper surface and somewhat lighter and matte on the underside. Young plants have smaller leaves and fewer leaflets. Each leaflet has a central rib that divides it into two halves, with between four and six ribs clearly visible up to the third order. The stipules merge with the petiole, the length of which is 12-15 cm.
Flowers
Appearing from midsummer to early autumn, the flowers are produced in a 20 cm panicle of small umbels, each umbel 7–10 mm in diameter with 5–10 flowers. The flowers are hermaphroditic, having a colour ranging from yellow to green and a double perianth radial symmetry. They are composed of an entire annular calyx, five almost fully developed sepals, a corolla with five petals 2.5 mm long, with five stamens and five or six carpels that enclose the ovary. The style is not recognizable and the stigma is established.
Fruits
The fruits have an almost spherical oval drupe, with a diameter of about 5 mm. The endocarp contains five seeds. The fruits ripen from late summer to early winter. They begin as orange glandular points. At maturity, they become red-violet. The fruits are inedible to humans, but may be consumed (and spread elsewhere) by various birds, parrots or other animals.
Toxicity
All parts of the plant contain calcium oxalate crystals, saponins and terpenoids, toxic compounds which are irritants for cats and dogs. They can cause swelling (in some cases leading to breathing difficulties), burning of the mouth, difficulty swallowing, vomiting, diarrhoea, and itching. For humans, the plant is low-severity poison and a skin irritant which can cause contact dermatitits.
II. How to Grow and Care
Sunlight
Dwarf umbrella tree flourishes in bright, indirect light but is quite adaptable, thriving under partial sun conditions. Optimal growth is achieved with consistent light but avoiding intense midday sun which can scorch its leaves. When placed indoors, it prefers spots where natural light is ample but diffused, such as near east- or north-facing windows. Outdoors, dwarf umbrella tree should be situated in an area with dappled sunlight or light shade to mimic its native understory habitat. While the dwarf umbrella tree tolerates a range from full sun to full shade, extreme lighting conditions can lead to legginess or reduced leaf vibrancy, impacting its overall health and aesthetic appeal.
Temperature
Dwarf umbrella tree is native to tropical and subtropical regions that have high temperatures and humidity, so it likes a warm, humid environment. It can grow in 16 to 30 ℃ and the optimum temperature is 20 to 27 ℃. It prefers a wet environment and grows luxuriantly with sufficient water in the soil.
Watering
Thriving in humid environments, dwarf umbrella tree is well-adapted to the moisture levels of its native tropical settings. This species exhibits a preference for consistent soil moisture without being waterlogged, demonstrating moderate drought tolerance. Watering should be adjusted to once every 1-2 weeks, ensuring the soil partially dries between sessions. Typically grown indoors due to its size and ornamental appeal, dwarf umbrella tree benefits from higher humidity levels that mimic its natural habitat, promoting lush foliage and robust growth.
Soil
Dwarf umbrella tree needs sandy loam that is loose, fertile, permeable, well-drained, and rich in humus. The pH of the soil should be acidic to weak alkaline. The ideal soil is 2/3 leaf mold and organic fertilizer with 1/3 perlite, and a small amount of base fertilizer. In a flowerpot, line the bottom with rocks or broken tiles to facilitate drainage. Repot young plants once before new buds germinate in spring; remove some of the old soil and add an equivalent amount of new soil. Repot mature plants every two years.
Fertilizing
Fertilize dwarf umbrella tree monthly in spring and summer with a high nitrogen fertilizer for lush foliage. A balanced, water-soluble formula, diluted by half, promotes overall plant health. Reduce feeding in fall and winter to every other month. Apply fertilizer to moist soil to prevent root burn. Use a teaspoon per gallon of water, ensuring thorough soil coverage without over-fertilization, which can damage dwarf umbrella tree. Novices should start with less to gauge dwarf umbrella tree’s response.
Pruning
If dwarf umbrella tree is not pruned for a long time, it may lose its original, graceful shape; in particular, lower leaves fall off easily. In spring, summer, fall, prune only redundant branches or leaves. In late autumn to the next spring before germination, trim back the main plant. Prune diseased and dead branches. The spindling branches should be cut to stimulate the growth of old branches and promote the germination of new branches.
Propagation
Dwarf umbrella tree is a popular houseplant known for its ease of care and unique foliage. For successful propagation, start with healthy stem cuttings, ensuring each piece has at least one leaf node as this is where new growth will emerge. Cuttings should be placed in either water or a well-draining potting mix, keeping the medium consistently moist but not waterlogged. Providing indirect light and warmth will encourage rooting. Direct contact with hormones can stimulate root growth, but dwarf umbrella tree typically roots readily without them. After rooting, transfer the new plants into individual pots to establish.
Transplanting
The best time to transplant a dwarf umbrella tree is mid-spring to late spring, or mid-fall to late fall, as these cooler seasons promote healthy root growth. Ensure a location with well-draining soil and partial shade. Remember to gently loosen the root ball during transplanting.
Overwintering
Dwarf umbrella tree hails from subtropical Taiwan, naturally suited to mild winters. It leverages thick leaves to retain moisture during dry, cool weather. As temperatures lower, dwarf umbrella tree should be moved indoors, receiving ample light but shielded from drafts. It appreciates increased humidity and reduced watering in winter. A dormant period with cooler temperatures (not below 15°C) can encourage spring blooming.
Repotting
For dwarf umbrella tree, a bushy, compact plant, repotting every 2-3 years to accommodate its growth. Optimal time is spring, before new growth begins. Choose a slightly larger pot to ensure room for root development. Post-repotting, place dwarf umbrella tree in bright, indirect light and maintain consistent moisture to aid recovery. A friendly reminder: gentle handling during repotting keeps dwarf umbrella tree thriving!
III. Uses and BenefitsÂ
Dwarf umbrella tree is a fast-growing evergreen shrub or tree commonly found in tropical gardens. It is prized for its unique, widely-spaced leaves, ability to attract birds, and may be used for hedging. Dwarf umbrella tree is an ornamental appropriate for tropical gardens. Plant with Monstera or Dracaena for textural contrast.
