Dwarf umbrella tree care guide
Schefflera arboricola
Also known as: Hong Kong schefflera, Umbrella plant
Pets and children
Considered toxic
The leaves and stems contain calcium oxalate: chewing can cause mouth pain and swelling, drooling, and vomiting, so keep it out of reach and consult a veterinarian (or a doctor, for a child) if eaten.
How often to water Dwarf umbrella tree
- Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
- Every 5 days
- Water thoroughly once the topsoil is dry, as a guide, and do not leave water standing in the saucer.
- Autumn (Oct–Nov)
- Every 7 days
- The soil dries more slowly as it cools, so wait about a day or two after it dries.
- Winter (Dec–Feb)
- Every 10 days
- Water sparingly roughly three to four days after the soil dries; a slightly dry plant copes with the cold better.
Light and placement for Dwarf umbrella tree
Generally happiest in bright light through a sheer curtain; it tolerates some shade, but a dim spot makes the stems leggy and dulls the leaves, and midsummer sun scorches them.
Overwintering Dwarf umbrella tree
Overwintering guide: 3°C (37°F) or above
Hardier than most houseplants, taking around 3°C; as a guide, bring it to a bright spot indoors when nights fall below about 5°C and keep it out of the direct blast of heaters.
Fertilizing and repotting Dwarf umbrella tree
Fertilizer
During its vigorous growth from May to September, slow-release fertilizer about every two months is generally enough; too much makes it outgrow its space, so feed less to keep it compact, and give none in winter.
When to repot
Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
Common problems with Dwarf umbrella tree
- Overwatering rots the roots; the lower leaves yellow and drop first.
- In a dark spot the stems stretch and the leaves come small and pale.
- In dry indoor air spider mites and scale insects settle in and the leaves turn sticky.
Tips for growing Dwarf umbrella tree
- If it gets leggy, cut it back hard in May or June; new shoots break from below and tidy the shape.
- Pruned stems root in water or soil, so they are easy to propagate.
- Dust settles on the leaves, so mist or wipe them from time to time.
These are AI-generated general guidelines. They vary with the variety, the placement and the pot size. For effects on pets or children, consult a veterinarian or a doctor.
Keep your plant log going
Greenery is a free app that keeps your plant care going, with watering reminders and photo records. Available on iOS and Android.
