Schefflera 'Gerda' - Umbrella Plant

Scientific Name
Schefflera arboricola (Scheffler's cultivated tree) 'Gerda'

Recently reclassified into the Heptapleurum genus, along geographical lines. The only true Schefflera are now those from New Zealand; this plant is now more correctly known as Heptapleurum arboricola.

Common Name
Umbrella Plant, Parasol Plant, Dwarf Schefflera, Goose-Sole Vine

Origin
Native to Taiwan and the Hainan Province of China

Light
Prefers bright light, can range from moderate to bright and will even like some direct morning or evening sun, as long as this is kept to a few hours. If it's dropping leaves, this probably means it's getting too little light!

Water
Allow the top third of the soil to dry out in between watering; reduce this further in autumn and winter, and note that your plant will need more frequent watering the brighter the location.

Humidity
Low humidity is fine for the umbrella plant, though it will benefit from an occasional mist or hose down.

Soil
Use a dense, well-draining mix. Repot every three years in spring as the plant grows if absolutely necessary- this plant will be fine staying potbound for longer to avoid transplant shock!

Food
Feed every four waters in the growing season, reduce to every six or seven in autumn and winter. Pre-water the soil before applying 'ready to use' products to protect the roots.

Temperature
Average household temperatures of about 16-23°C are perfect- make sure it doesn't consistently drop below 12°C in winter.

Pet-safe
No, this plant is toxic to pets and small humans.

Sprouts Top Tips
To keep your Umbrella plant short and leafy, you can prune it just above the nodes where leaves grow from; without pruning, you can let it grow taller and slimmer!