Schefflera

Schefflera, commonly called umbrella plants or trees, make excellent tropical houseplants. The larger Schefflera actinophylla features long, shiny, oval green leaves that droop gracefully from a central stalk, resembling an umbrella.

Schefflera arboricola (dwarf schefflera) features smaller, glossy leaves, sometimes with creamy variegation.

These plants produce flowers, but plants grown indoors rarely develop flowers. Schefflera grows best in indirect, filtered light, requiring a rich, loamy, well-draining soil and temperatures consistently warmer than 60°F.

All parts of the schefflera plant are mildly toxic to humans and seriously toxic to dogs and cats.