Carol Cloud Bailey
Family
Araliaceae
Botanical Name
Schefflera arboricola
Plant Common Name
Arboricola, Dwarf Umbrella Plant, Hawaiian Schefflera, Schefflera
General Description
Hawaiian or dwarf schefflera is a medium to large evergreen shrub which is native to the subtropical forests of Taiwan. The glossy green leaves are hand-shaped (palmate) with seven to eleven leaflets radiating out from a midpoint. The leaves are arranged all along the stems, which are waxy, succulent and green when new, becoming tan and semi-woody when old. The stems can mildly warp around objects as they grow, becoming a pseudo-vine. If the leaves or stems are crushed or cut, a pungent fragrance of fresh black pepper is released. In tropical climates it produces elongated flower clusters which mature to cascading clusters of showy maroon-orange berries, eventually turning black.
Hawaiian schefflera is often used as a landscape shrub in warm, frost-free areas and as an interior plant in cooler zones. Outside, it prefers humid environments, partial sun to part shade and fertile, well-drained soil. It is moderately drought and sun tolerant once established and can be pruned and allow to rejuvenate. As an interior plant, provide it with bright indirect light and rich potting soil. A dish with pebbles underneath will help keep humidity higher. Allow the soil of potted specimens to dry between watering. Dwarf schefflera is not a heavy feeder, but requires moderate applications of fertilizer for good growth, especially in sandy soils.
A neat habit, lovely texture and beautiful shiny leaves explain the popularity of this easy-to-grow plant. Look for cultivars that have variegated leaves, as they are particularly showy.
Growing Conditions
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Soil pH
Acidic, Neutral, Alkaline
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Soil Drainage
Well Drained
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Soil type
Loam, Sand
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Growth Rate
Medium
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Water Requirements
Drought Tolerant, Average Water
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Habit
Oval/Rounded
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Seasonal Interest
Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter
Ornamental Features
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Flower Interest
Insignificant
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Flower Color
Red, Bronze
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Fruit Color
Orange, Black
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Foliage Color (Spring)
Green
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Foliage Color (Summer)
Green, Dark Green
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Foliage Color (Fall)
Green, Dark Green
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Foliage Color (Winter)
Dark Green
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Bark Color
Sandy Brown, Gray
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Fragrant Flowers
No
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Fragrant Fruit
No
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Fragrant Foliage
Yes
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Bark or Stem Fragrant
Yes
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Flower Petal Number
Single
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Repeat Bloomer
No
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Showy Fruit
Yes
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Edible Fruit
No
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Showy Foliage
Yes
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Foliage Texture
Medium
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Foliage Sheen
Glossy
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Evergreen
Yes
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Showy Bark
Yes
Special Characteristics
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Bark Texture
Smooth
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Usage
Container, Foundation, Hedges, Houseplant, Mixed Border, Screening / Wind Break, Topiary / Bonsai / Espalier, Tropical
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Sharp or Has Thorns
No
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Invasive
No
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Self-Sowing
No
