Schefflera

These are tropical and sub-tropical shrubs and small trees. Some are grown outside in the warm areas of the U.S. and one, S. actinophylla, has become especially popular for growing as a pot or tub plant. S. actinophylla is a small evergreen tree that can grow up to 30 feet high. Its leaves grow from long stems and are large, digitate (fingered) and dark green. This plant grows quickly in any fairly good soil and it loves partial shade. It is originally from Australia.

Pot Cultivation

When they are grown in pots or tubs, Schefflera should be watered moderately; not so much that the soil is constantly saturated and not so little that the foliage wilts. Plants that have filled their pots up with roots should have dilute liquid fertilizer applied weekly or biweekly. Some shade from strong sun should be given.

Propagation

They may be increased by seeds, air layering or cuttings. Air layering is useful for pot-grown plants that have become tall and spindly.