Tupidanthus care guide
Schefflera pueckleri
Also known as: Mallet flower, Tupidanthus calyptratus
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 Tupidanthus
- Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
- Every 5 days
- Water thoroughly once the topsoil is dry, as a guide; constantly wet soil leads to root rot.
- Autumn (Oct–Nov)
- Every 7 days
- As it cools, stretch the interval and wait about a day or two after the soil dries.
- Winter (Dec–Feb)
- Every 10 days
- Water sparingly roughly three to four days after the soil dries; use misting against dry air.
Light and placement for Tupidanthus
Generally best where soft light through a sheer curtain reaches it all day; it tolerates shade, but in a dim spot the leaves droop and stretch, and midsummer sun scorches them.
Overwintering Tupidanthus
Overwintering guide: 5°C (41°F) or above
As a guide, bring it to a bright spot indoors when nights drop below about 10°C; it takes around 5°C, but keep it away from cold windows and water less so the soil stays on the dry side.
Fertilizing and repotting Tupidanthus
Fertilizer
From May to September, slow-release fertilizer about every two months or a diluted liquid feed roughly every two to three weeks; the big leaves depend more on light and watering than on feeding, and none in winter.
When to repot
Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
Common problems with Tupidanthus
- Overwatering rots the roots and the leaves yellow and drop one after another.
- In a dark spot the leaf stalks stretch and the large leaves hang down.
- Cold and wet soil together in winter rot the base of the plant.
Tips for growing Tupidanthus
- Dust collects on the big leaves, so wipe them with a damp cloth now and then.
- Many are sold with curved trunks; rotating the pot keeps the light even and the shape intact.
- Cut back overgrown stems in spring and new shoots break from the sides.
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.
