The Schefflera Arboricola is also known as an Umbrella Plant. It gets this name because of the long oval leaves, growing in an umbrella-like circular cluster. It is a great plant to keep indoors. They are easy to care for, very fast growers, can handle neglect and purify the air! They are a great choice for beginners and to keep in places like offices and dorm rooms.
Schefflera plants are considered poisonous and should be kept away from pets and children.
A dwarf schefflera does best when it receives medium to bright sunlight. A spot within 10 feet of an east, south or west facing window is acceptable. The average temperature range is 65 to 80°F. Hot or cold air drafts can damage the plant. So, it is best to keep it away from open windows, air conditioners, exterior doors, heat vents and other drafty areas. Cold temperatures force the plant to develop an overall pale or yellowish appearance.
Water the plant deeply whenever its soil is dry to about ½” below the soil line. Water it slowly and evenly over the soil’s surface and stop when water begins to exit the plant container’s drainage holes. Avoid using water that has a softener, containing chlorine or fluoride.
Fertilize with a water-soluble or slow-release fertilizer labeled for houseplants. If the plant grows in bright light, then it will need fertilizer every two months. If it receives medium light, it will need fertilizer every three months. Excessive amounts of fertilizer can burn the roots, give new foliage brown leaf margins or make leaves become dark green, soft and floppy. Tall, pale and thin growth indicates that the plant has an insufficient amount of available nutrients.
