Umbrella Plant
Schefflera actinophylla
Also called Octopus Tree — a tropical tree from Australia and New Guinea with glossy leaflets arranged like spokes of an umbrella. Grows tall and treelike indoors (up to 3 m) but responds well to pruning. The smaller-leaved Schefflera arboricola is sometimes sold under the same common name. Leggy plants can be cut back hard in spring and will re-branch vigorously.
Quick Facts
Distribution
Indoor (native to Australia & New Guinea)
Light
Bright indirect light; some morning sun welcome
Bloom Time
Rare indoors
Soil
Rich, well-draining potting mix
Water
When top 2–5 cm is dry; less in winter
Growing & Cultivation
Propagation
Stem cuttings 10–15 cm long cut at a 45° angle below a node, dipped in rooting hormone, rooted in moist well-draining mix
Pruning / Splitting
Prune leggy stems hard in spring — new branches emerge below cuts, creating a fuller plant
