Schefflera arboricola is the most well known name but the accepted name is Heptapleurum arboricola. Schefflera arboricola is part of the Araliaceae family and its native range is Hainan, Taiwan. Leaves are palmately compound, each leaf contains between 7 and 9 leaflets, variegation is cream coloured. These plants reach a maximum height of 4ft, Genus Schefflera honors 18th century botanist J. C. Scheffler. Specific epithet arboricola means ‘living on trees’. Light: Bright indirect light, meaning the plant sees the sun for 0-4 hours per day - this could be through trees or a translucent curtain, it’s important for the plant to see the sky in order to thrive. They are known to tolerate periods of full sun. Water: If you’re giving your plant bright indirect light, potting mix ought to be evenly moist. Potting mix: A well draining mix composed of coco coir, perlite or vermiculite, orchid bark and worm castings. Fertilising: Feed your plant every other watering during the growing season or when you observe active growth. You can dilute fertiliser to half the recommended amount but never add more. Temperature: 18-32°C. Humidity: Schefflera would prefer humidity over 60% but do well to adapt to average home humidity. Schefflera are toxic, keep out of reach of pets and children.
