Gerald L. Klingaman
Family
Araliaceae
Botanical Name
Schefflera
Plant Common Name
Schefflera
General Description
The genus Schefflera may have more than 1000 species, though its classification is in flux and there may be fewer or more. They are naturally distributed in the warm-temperate and tropical regions of the Pacific Islands, southeastern Asia and Central and South America. The most popular species are grown as trees and shrubs in frost-free landscapes or as houseplants.
Usually evergreen, the plants may be trees, shrubs or lianas (woody vines). Rounded leaves are mostly compound (leaves with the blades divided into two or more separate parts) on long petioles (leaf stalks) with leaflets like the fingers on a hand. Many small flowers are grouped together on single or multiple stalks usually at the end of the branches. The petals are usually green, yellow or red. The flowers are generally followed by bird-attracting drupes (stone fruits).
Schefflera morototoni is a timber tree native to Mexico, the Greater Antilles and Central and South America. It grows in a variety of habitats including the Amazonian Rainforest of Brazil. The ever popular umbrella tree is used as a houseplant and landscape specimen. Schefflera actinophylla is native to the tropical rainforests of the Northern Territories of Australia, New Guinea and Java. It takes well to containers. Inside, provide moderate to bright indirect light, soil with ample drainage and good humidity. Dwarf schefflera ( Schefflera arboricola) is a medium to large evergreen shrub which is native to the subtropical forests of Taiwan. It is often used as a landscape shrub in warm, frost-free areas and as an interior plant in cooler zones. 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. There are many cultivated varieties of these two species that are popular with gardeners.
For such a large genus, relatively few species are cultivated. However, each species and cultivar has specific culture and hardiness requirements. Most of the Schefflleras in cultivation are frost and freeze tender species. Outside, they prefer humid environments, sunny to partial shade locations and fertile, well-drained soil. They are moderately drought once established and can be pruned for rejuvenation and to control size. As interior plants, provide bright indirect light, increased humidity and rich potting soil.
The umbrella tree, Schefflera actinophylla has escaped cultivation in some locations and become a pest plant. It is listed as a serious invasive species in Florida, Hawaii and on some Pacific Islands. For more information about the invasiveness of this plant see http://www.hear.org/Pier/species/schefflera_actinophylla.htm.
