This popular, low-maintenance houseplant comes in many different varieties, sizes, and leaf colors.
Plant breeders have brought new varieties to the market.
Schefflera is toxic to pets.
Credit:Dean Schoeppner
Dean Schoeppner
Where to Plant Schefflera
Schefflera is usually grown as a houseplant.
Keep it away from air conditioning vents because the plant does not like cold air.
The plant can spend the summer outdoors where it toleratesdirect sunlight.
Credit:Mike Jensen
Schefflera Care Tips
Light
Schefflera thrives in bright indirect light.
A sunny south- or west-facing window is an ideal location.
Although it prefers high light, schefflera will also grow well in medium lightthe process will just be slower.
Credit:Jay Wilde
Soil and Water
Plant schefflera in a rich, well-drained potting mix.
Wait to water schefflera until the surface of the potting mix dries out.
Its tolerance of dry conditions is one of the factors that make it a favorite houseplant.
Credit:Dean Schoeppner
Don’t water schefflera until the surface of the potting soil is dry.
The plant does best in relatively high humidity of 60 percent.
As an outdoor plant, it is winter hardy in zones 10 to 12.
Credit:Marty Baldwin
Fertilizer
Schefflera doesn’t require fertilizer for good growth.
Be sure to follow package directions for program rates.
Pruning
Sometimes schefflera grows beyond the space available.
Credit:Dean Schoeppner
When a schefflera outgrows its interior space, it’s possible for you to prune it back.
The plant will regrow, producing a lush stand of new stems and leaves.
Repot the plant when its roots fill the container.
This can take a year or two depending on the growth rate.
To repot it, carefully remove the plant from the container.
How to Propagate Schefflera
Schefflera can be propagated fromstem cuttings.
Cut a stem that has several nodes (the points where the leaves attach to the stem).
Pests and Problems
Schefflera does not have major pest problems.
Common pests includemealybugs,mites, and scale insects, which can all be controlled with insecticidal soap.
The most common problem of schefflera is overwatering and underwatering.
Too much water or poor drainage may lead to root rot.
It has large leaflets up to 10 inches long.
To maintain their glossiness, wipe or dust them occasionally.
It has a mature height of 3 to 4 feet.
Leaves emerge coppery red and mature to dark blackish green.
Frequently Asked Questions
It does but when grown as a houseplant, schefflera rarely flowers.
Usually, correcting the growing conditions and care of the plant fixes the issue.
Updated by Nadia Hassani
Schefflera.ASPCA.
