Umbrella Trees $45

Although umbrella plants do best in bright, indirect light, they can usually tolerate direct indoor light, and will just grow more slowly and become leggy in medium-to-low light. Humidity is generally not a concern, but the plants can be more susceptible to pests like scale and spider mites if the air is too dry.

Care and Planting

Like most houseplants, umbrella plants need good drainage so that excess moisture in the soil doesn’t lead to death by root rot. Plant in a pot with a drainage hole, ideally in a peat-moss-based potting mix. Repot every few years in the spring.

Water thoroughly when the top of the potting mix dries out, then let the soil dry before watering again. Umbrella plants are flexible about watering, but more tolerant of dry soil than overwatering. They don’t like wet feet, so empty the drainage saucer after watering.

Umbrella plants don’t need regular fertilizer, but for faster growth, you can give your plant a standard diluted plant fertilizer once a month during the summer. Keep the leaves dust-free by wiping with a damp cloth or sponge.

A mature tree, like the one pictured in the lead image, may need to be supported with a stake. Schefflera that get too big or leggy can be pruned back. Pinch growing tips to encourage a fuller, bushier plant.

In warm, high-humidity conditions, outdoor plants may even flower, but don’t expect flowers indoors.