If you want a lush green indoor tree, the dwarf umbrella tree (Schefflera arboricola) might be just what you need for your plant collection. Umbrella trees also grow outdoors in warm, frost-free climates and are native to tropical rainforests in northern Australia and New Guinea. In the ground they can become large plants, but size is restricted when grown indoors in a pot.

This multi-trunked tree has distinctive umbrella-shaped leaves that gives the plant its common name of umbrella tree. The leaves are dark, green and glossy, adding to their appeal. The trees do flower, but flowers are more likely to be seen outdoors and are unlikely to form indoors. When in bloom, the nectar-rich flowers are highly attractive to birds including parrots.

 

All about umbrella trees

Potential umbrella tree growth

Outdoors, umbrella trees can be higher than a two-storey house (15m high and 6m wide). Indoors, most will reach around 2-3m high and 2m wide when fully grown. They can be pruned to control height.

 

Popular umbrella tree varieties

Dwarf umbrella tree forms are the best choice to grow indoors. Available varieties include ‘Alpine Junior’ (dark green, narrow shrubby shape, pictured in header), ‘Madam de Smet’ (boldly variegated yellow and green leaves) and ‘Amate’ (dwarf with glossy green leaves).

 

 

Ideal growing conditions for umbrella trees

Grow umbrella tree indoors in large pots filled with good-quality potting mix. Flower Power recommends Supersoil Professional Indoor, Balcony and Hanging Basket Potting and Planting Mix. Plants need bright, well-lit positions indoors, but keep them out of direct sunlight. Signs that light is insufficient include yellowing of leaves, poor growth, increased susceptibility to pest problems and bent stems. As these are rainforest plants, they prefer a humid environment so keep them out of dry air from heaters or air-conditioners. In very dry indoor situations, mist the foliage. Click here for some handy hints on increasing humidity indoors.

 

Ongoing care requirements for umbrella trees

Water regularly as the potting mix begins to feel dry, but don’t allow plants to stand in saucers of water. Fertilise occasionally with a liquid plant food such as Osmocote Pour+Feed Indoor Plant Food and regularly trim off any dead of damaged leaves. Although umbrella trees generally don’t need to be pruned, stems that become too tall or are damaged can be cut back. New growth will follow pruning. Watch for pests including fungal gnats, two-spotted mite (also called red spider), white fly and scale. Pests are a sign that the plant is stressed – perhaps due to an unsuitable growing environment. For a comprehensive guide to indoor plant pest elimination, click here. Treat pest attacks outdoors if possible with an organic insecticide (follow the instructions on the container) and allow the tree to rest outdoors for several weeks in a well-lit spot out of direct sun. Once there are signs of new growth, feed with a complete liquid plant food. Where plants are happy indoors they may put on growth and require repotting every two to three years.

 

Special care requirements for umbrella trees grown indoors

Keep the leaves clean and dust free by wiping occasionally with a soft, damp cloth. Reduce watering over winter. Variegated forms must be sheltered from direct sun as the yellow leaves are easily burnt by strong light. These trees benefit from a rest period outdoors in a sheltered position out of direct sunlight.

 

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