How to Care for an Umbrella Tree

Take proper care of your umbrella tree for healthy green foilage.

The umbrella tree, also known by its botanical name, Schefflera actinophylla, will live for years with the proper care. Plant stems branch out with about eight dark green leaves. The variegated plant has greenish-yellow leaves. Umbrella trees originated in the Pacific Islands and Australia and can grow to heights of 6 feet.

Things You'll Need

• Fertilizer
• Gravel
• Drainage tray

Instructions

1. Place the umbrella tree in a bright location with indirect sunlight. Encourage shapely plants by turning the container occasionally so that every side of the tree gets light.

2. Keep the temperatures in the room between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit.

3. Test the soil before watering. The first inch of soil in the container should be dry before watering. If the leaves of the umbrella tree start to yellow, the plant is getting too much water.

4. Place a drainage tray with gravel inside under the container. Any extra water will drain out the bottom hole in the pot and supply some humidity to the tree. Umbrella trees need average humidity, which can be supplied by the drainage tray or a humidifier.

5. Fertilize the umbrella tree during the growing season. Use a 20-20-20 fertilizer, but dilute the fertilizer in half. For instance, if the package calls for 1 part water and 1 part fertilizer, use 2 parts water to 1 part fertilizer.

Tips & Warnings

• If you use a drainage tray, you must put gravel in it so that the container is not sitting directly in the water.

References

• Guide to Houseplants: Schefflera Plant
• Plant Care: Variegated Umbrella Tree