Sheila

Schefflera arboricola, Heptapleurum arboricola

Umbrella tree, Octopus tree

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• Sheila likes...

  • 

    Feeding

    To keep Sheila’s nutrients topped up so that she can continue to grow healthy and strong, feed her with plant food at least once a month from April to October.

  • 

    Medium light

    She’ll be ok in semi-shade but is happiest in bright, indirect light. She likes a spot away from harsh sunlight.

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    Light watering

    Let her dry out a little, check to see if the top two inches of soil are dry before watering.

• Quick facts

  Botanical name

  Schefflera arboricola, Heptapleurum arboricola

  Nickname

  Umbrella tree, Octopus tree

  Plant type

  Evergreen tree, Indoor

  Plant height (including pot)

  130-140cm

  Pet/baby safe

  Toxic if ingested

  Nursery pot size

  32cm

• About the Umbrella tree

  If you’re after a tall, bushy houseplant that will take up some space but not too much time and attention, then the Umbrella tree is the plant for you. Think of Sheila as the OG version of one of our firm favourites, Bali on lava. Its glossy, divided leaves offer texture while its sturdy stems and compact habit offer structure – the perfect balance. 

  In the wild, Schefflera (or Heptapleurum as they’re now called, after scientists have carried out more genetic analysis), are most commonly found in Taiwanese forests, where they might grow as tall as nine metres. This tree isn't quite nine metres, but it will definitely make your room feel like an indoor forest. In the wild it has a habit of attaching itself to and climbing up the trunks of other trees, sending down aerial roots from its stems to help anchor itself into the soil. Don't be alarmed if your tree comes with some of these roots already or starts growing some, there’s nothing wrong with your plant, it’s just doing its thing. 

  If you need to move your Schefflera, always be sure to lift it by the trunk or pot, not the stems, to avoid damaging the plant. For more information on how to care for Sheila, read our full guide to Schefflera care.

  Did you know?

  In the wild these trees get massive sprays of bright yellow flowers that, once pollinated, turn into bright orange berries that are much loved by birds (but toxic to humans).