Dwarf Umbrella Tree
Araliaceae BUSH BOTH Placement

Dwarf Umbrella Tree

Heptapleurum arboricola

Identified By Unknown Guest

Heptapleurum arboricola, commonly known as the dwarf umbrella tree, is a popular foliage houseplant and outdoor shrub known for its glossy, palmately compound leaves arranged like an umbrella's spokes.

Also known as: Dwarf Schefflera Umbrella Plant Octopus Tree

Safety Warnings

Toxic to Pets: Contains calcium oxalate crystals which can cause oral irritation, excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing in cats and dogs.
Toxic to Humans: Ingestion can cause mild to moderate irritation of the mouth, lips, and tongue due to calcium oxalate crystals.

Growth & Dimensions

Height 90 - 300 cm
Width 60 - 150 cm
Growth Rate Moderate
Care Level Easy
Lifespan Perennial

Ideal Environment

Temperature 15°C - 27°C
Sunlight Hours 4 - 8 hrs/day
Sun Exposure Partial shade
Soil pH 6 - 7
Watering Interval 7 - 14 days
Humidity 40.00% - 70.00%
USDA Zone 10 - 12

Tropical and Subtropical Regions

Climate: Warm, humid climates with protection from frost.

Soils: Loam Sandy Loam
Annual Rainfall: 1000 - 2500 mm

Native Regions

Taiwan
Hainan

Care Guide

Watering

Allow the top 5 cm of soil to dry out completely between waterings. Reduce watering frequency during the winter months.

Sunlight

Thrives in bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid harsh direct afternoon sun which can scorch the leaves.

Soil and Fertilizer

Use well-draining potting mix. Feed with a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer once a month during spring and summer.

Pruning

Prune back the growing tips in spring to encourage a bushier, denser growth habit.

Propagation Methods

Cutting

Take stem cuttings in spring, dip the cut end in rooting hormone, and place in moist, warm potting medium until roots develop.

Air_layering

Involves wounding a stem and wrapping it in moist sphagnum moss to encourage root formation while still attached to the parent plant.

Common Diseases & Pests

Root Rot

Fungal
Symptoms:

Yellowing leaves, wilting despite moist soil, black and mushy roots.

Treatment:

Remove infected roots, repot in fresh well-draining soil, and reduce watering frequency.

Prevention:

Ensure proper pot drainage and never let the plant sit in standing water.

Spider Mites

Pest
Symptoms:

Fine webbing on leaves, stippling or yellow dots on foliage, leaf drop.

Treatment:

Wipe leaves with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Prevention:

Maintain adequate ambient humidity and regularly clean dust from leaves.

Properties & Benefits

Uses & Health Benefits

Air Purification

Effective at filtering indoor air pollutants and toxins such as formaldehyde and benzene.

Precautions: Toxic if ingested by pets or children.

Key Nutrients / Compounds

Non-edible ornamental foliage moderate N/A

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