Schefflera arboricola, also known as the Dwarf Schefflera or Hawaiian Elfin-tree, is a small evergreen tree native to Taiwan.
It is widely cultivated as a houseplant in temperate regions due to its attractive foliage and easy care.
The leaves of Schefflera arboricola are variable in shape but most often resemble a miniature version of the leaves of its larger relative, the common Schefflera (Schefflera actinophylla).
The leaf blades are usually 2″ to 5″ inches long and have 5 to 9 leaflets. The leaflets are oval to elliptical and have serrated margins.
The leaves are borne on long petioles that can be up to 12″ inches in length and are glossy green, often turning red or purple during the year’s cooler months.
Schefflera arboricola is a fast-growing plant that can reach 6′ to 8′ feet within a few years.
It is typically wider than tall and has a spreading, umbrella-like canopy.
The plant produces small, white flowers that are borne on clusters at the ends of the branches. Small, black fruits follow these flowers.
Schefflera arboricola is relatively easy to care for and makes an excellent houseplant.
Some of the common household names for the Schefflera arboricola include:
- Dwarf umbrella tree
- Hawaiian elf
- Parasol plant
- Octopus tree
Schefflera arboricola is called the dwarf umbrella tree because its leaves resemble an umbrella.
One possible reason why Schefflera arboricola is called the Hawaiian elf is that the leaves of this plant are small and have a pointed end, similar to the ears of an elf.
The parasol plant also got its name because the leaves of this plant look like a parasol or umbrella.
This plant is also known as the octopus tree because the branches and leaves of this plant resemble the tentacles of an octopus.
Quick Facts On Schefflera Arboricola
- Family: Araliaceae
- Light: Bright, indirect light
- Temperature: 65° to 80° degrees Fahrenheit
- Water: Regular watering; well-drained soil
- Fertilizer: A balanced fertilizer monthly
- Propagation: Seed or stem cuttings
- Common Problems: Mealybugs, spider mites, scale, root rot
Schefflera Arboricola Care
Schefflera arboricola, or false aralia, is a beautiful houseplant that can greatly impact any indoor space.
Though it can be tricky to care for, you can keep your Schefflera healthy and thriving with a bit of patience and knowledge.
Here are a few tips on how to care for your Schefflera arboricola.
What Does The Dwarf Umbrella Tree Look Like, And How Big Does It Grow?
The Schefflera arboricola is a tropical evergreen plant that can grow up to 8′ feet tall indoors. Outdoors, the plant can reach heights of up to 20′ feet.
The leaves are dark green and glossy, with each leaf divided into 7 to 9 leaflets.
In addition, the leaflets of the Dwarf Umbrella Tree are oval-shaped and have serrated edges.
The leaves grow on long, slender stems that branch off from the plant’s main stem.
When Does Dwarf Umbrella Tree Bloom? Are The Flowers Fragrant?
The Schefflera arboricola rarely flowers when grown indoors.
The blooms are small, white, and insignificant when it does flower. They are also not fragrant.
If you hope to see flowers on your Schefflera, you may have better luck growing them outdoors.
What Are The Lighting Needs, And Temperature Requirements?
The Schefflera arboricola prefers bright, indirect sunlight.
If the leaves of your dwarf umbrella tree start to turn yellow, that is a sign that the plant is getting too much direct sunlight.
The ideal temperature for scheffleras is between 60° to 75° degrees Fahrenheit.
However, they can tolerate lower temperatures as long as they are not exposed to drafts or sudden temperature changes.
How And When To Water And Fertilize Dwarf Umbrella Tree?
It is important to water it regularly and fertilize it monthly during the growing season to keep your Schefflera healthy.
The best way to water scheffleras is to use lukewarm water and let the plant soak up the moisture until the soil is saturated.
Be sure to empty any excess water from the saucer beneath the pot.
Dwarf umbrella trees dry out a bit between waterings, so be sure not to overwater the plant.
When fertilizing, use a balanced fertilizer and follow the instructions on the package.
In addition, this plant prefers humid conditions but will tolerate average household humidity.
What Is The Best Soil For Dwarf Schefflera, And When Should You Transplant?
When transplanting Schefflera, it is important to use a well-draining potting mix.
A good mix for scheffleras includes equal parts of peat moss, perlite, and potting soil.
Be sure the pot you choose has drainage holes in the bottom to prevent the roots from sitting in water.
Scheffleras should be transplanted every 2 to 3 years, in the springtime.
Does Dwarf Schefflera Need Special Grooming Or Maintenance?
Scheffleras do not require special grooming or maintenance. However, you may need to prune the plant occasionally to control its size and shape.
To do this, simply cut back the stems that have grown too long.
You can also remove any yellow or dead leaves as needed.
How To Overwinter Dwarf Schefflera?
If you live in an area where the winters are too cold for dwarf scheffleras, you can over-winter your plant indoors.
To do this, follow these steps:
- Move the plant to a cool, sunny location and water it sparingly.
- Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
- You should also stop fertilizing the plant during this time.
With proper care, your Schefflera should survive the winter and be ready to thrive again come springtime.
How To Propagate Parasol Plant?
Schefflera arboricola can be easily propagated from stem cuttings.
Here’s how to do it:
- Fill a pot with a well-draining potting mix and water it thoroughly.
- Allow the excess water to drain out of the pot.
- Use a sharp knife or pair of scissors to take 4″ to 6″ inches of stem cuttings from the tips of healthy, non-flowering branches.
- Remove the bottom leaves from the cuttings and dip the cut end into rooting hormone powder.
- Place the cuttings in the potting mix, ensuring that the cut end is buried.
- Water the potting mix well and place the pot in a bright, indirect light location.
- Keep the soil moist but not soggy.
Within a few weeks, you should see new growth.
Once the roots have developed, you can transplant the cuttings into individual pots.
Schefflera Arboricola Pests And Diseases
Schefflera Arboricola is relatively pest and disease-free. However, mealybugs and scale can occasionally be a problem.
These pests suck the sap from the leaves and cause them to turn yellow and drop off.
Treat the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil if you see any signs of these pests.
Root rot can be a problem if the plant is overwatered.
Allow the soil to dry out between waterings, and if you see any signs of root rot, such as yellowing leaves or mushy roots, remove the affected roots and replant in a fresh, well-drained potting mix.
Suggested Uses For The Hawaiian Elf Schefflera
The Hawaiian elf Schefflera is a versatile plant that can be used in several different ways.
It makes an excellent houseplant and can also be grown in containers on a patio or deck.
This plant can also be trained into a small tree or bonsai.
It is excellent for use in small spaces. For example, it can be placed on a windowsill in an office or bathroom, where it will add a touch of greenery.
It is also ideal for use in dorm rooms and apartments or as a gift plant.