types of umbrella trees

The common names “umbrella plant,” “schefflera,” or “octopus tree” can refer to two different, but closely-related, species: Schefflera arboricola and Schefflera actinophylla.

What is the difference between an umbrella plant and an umbrella tree?

Umbrella Plant or Tree. The Umbrella plant is also known as the Dwarf umbrella tree. Schefflera Arboricola is the scientific name. Grown indoors the Schefflera Arboricola can be kept to a manageable size of 4 – 8ft tall, and the good news is they respond well to basic indoor conditions.

Do umbrella trees have invasive roots?

The umbrella tree’s aggressive roots can easily crack sewer lines, water pipes, paths and walls. They can block plumbing joints and pipes as well as damaging footpaths and building foundations. A fast-growing multi-stemmed tree usually growing 6-10m tall, but occasionally reaching 20m or more.

Is Schefflera the same as money tree?

The most similar looking to the Pachira Aquatica (Money Tree) is the Schefflera Amate, also known as an Umbrella Tree. While the two do have some significant similarities, they belong to different families and different regions.

Is umbrella tree toxic to dogs?

The umbrella tree in both forms is toxic to dogs and other small animals; it contains insoluble calcium oxalates, saponins, and terpenoids (aromatic hydrocarbon chemical substances). Umbrella Tree poisoning in dogs is caused by specific chemicals within the plant that are natural defenses.

Is Schefflera same as umbrella plant?

The Umbrella Plant (Schefflera or Heptapleurum) is another houseplant that goes by many names including the Dwarf Umbrella Tree, Parasol Plant and Octopus Tree. Don’t get it confused it with Cyperus which is another type of Umbrella Plant altogether.

How tall will an umbrella plant get?

There are two species of schefflera plants: Schefflera actinophylla can grow to heights of 8 to 10 feet inside and up to 40 feet outside in very warm climates. Schefflera arboricola, known as the “dwarf umbrella tree,” has smaller leaflets and a shorter mature height of just 3 to 4 feet indoors.

How long do umbrella trees live for?

Schefflera plants will usually live between 20 and 25 years if the conditions are right. Climate and overall upkeep will play a big role in how long Schefflera lives, so make sure to plant yours somewhere that gets plenty of bright light, and don’t forget to fertilize regularly.

How many types of umbrella trees are there?

Umbrella tree or Umbrella plant may refer to five disparate types of trees. Each of these differ as far as their stems, leaves, fruits, and region of growth are considered.

Are there different types of umbrella plants?

Varieties: Our Favorites

Schefflera alpina is a wild species that tolerates cooler conditions than traditional varieties. Indoors it can reach 6 feet tall. Dwarf schefflera is a compact variety with small, dark green, hand-shaped leaves often grown as a houseplant. It can reach 4 feet tall and wide.

Does schefflera like sun or shade?

Plants can get bigger in the ground and may need supplemental support and nutrition as well as a regular watering schedule, but Schefflera plant care outside is low maintenance compared to many landscape plants. Choose a location with partial to full shade or even full sun when growing Schefflera plants outdoors.

How do you control an umbrella tree?

Management strategies

Plants can be cut down or dug up depending on size and will reshoot unless treated with herbicide on the stump. The best approach is to combine herbicide, mechanical and physical control methods.

Can umbrella trees grow in full sun?

It needs bright full sun exposure, and benefits from regular watering and feedings of all-purpose tree food. Check with local laws about planting this tree, as it is advised against cultivation in some areas for being destructive.

Is umbrella tree good?

Schefflera plant, also called umbrella tree, is a fantastic houseplant and landscape plant. It’s known for being hardy even in cases of neglect or poor growing conditions. Not picky, it produces beautiful foliage.

How do you make an umbrella plant bushy?

Use a sharp pair of pruners or a knife and make cuts just above leaves. Make cuts to break up denser clumps and to make the plant appear more even. Strategically pruning a Schefflera plant can encourage it to grow out as well as up and make for a denser, more bushy shape.

Is schefflera toxic to dogs?

Schefflera. You might know this common household plant as an umbrella tree or starleaf. It adds a touch of green to your house, and it’s easy to care for. But if your pets nibble on it, they might have intense burning and irritation in and around their mouth, along with vomiting, drooling, and swallowing problems.