Umbrella plant care

Schefflera arboricola needs bright light with no direct sun. Check the soil before you water.

This is general care advice. Check the label of your plant. Keep toxic plants away from pets and children.

Care at a glance

Botanical name: Schefflera arboricola
Other names: Dwarf schefflera, Dwarf umbrella tree
Light: Bright light, no direct sun. Put it in bright indirect light. It lives in medium light, but it grows slowly there.
Soil check: Every 7 to 12 days in the growing season. The app learns the real time.
Humidity: Medium humidity
Feeding: Feed once a month in spring and summer. Do not feed in winter.

How does the soil feel 2 to 3 cm below the top?

Push a finger 2 to 3 cm into the soil. Feel if it is dry, damp or wet.

Dry: no soil sticks to your finger. Water the plant.
Damp: a little soil sticks to your finger. It feels cool. Do not water yet.
Wet: soil sticks to your finger and feels soggy, or you see water. Do not water. Check the drainage.

Do not water on a fixed day. Test the soil first. Read the soil check guide.

Use a well-draining mix. Mix potting soil with perlite.

Leaves that fall off often mean too much water or a cold draft. Check both.
Long, bare stems mean low light. Move the plant to a brighter place and prune it.
Sticky leaves can mean scale insects or mealybugs. Wipe the leaves with a damp cloth.

Toxic to cats and dogs. Keep it away from pets and children.