Heptapleurum

Umbrella plants grow as shrubs and trees in warm forests from tropical Asia into the Pacific. Their distinctive leaves are made up of several leaflets spreading from one point at the end of a stalk.

The older name Schefflera remains familiar in houseplant cultivation. Many of the compact and variegated indoor selections belong to Heptapleurum arboricola.

Heptapleurum umbrella plants

Heptapleurum arboricola ‘Gold Capella’ has yellow-variegated leaflets that radiate from each leaf stalk. ‘Charlotte’ adds pale markings, while ‘Compactum’ forms denser growth. The larger-leaved H. actinophyllum ‘Amate’ develops a broader, tree-like crown over time.

A young umbrella plant may have several leafy stems or a single main trunk. As the stems lengthen, new branches can fill out the crown. Bright filtered daylight and steady warmth maintain healthy foliage, with watering after the upper mix has begun drying.

Sudden changes in light or root moisture can cause some leaves to fall. The foliage contains calcium oxalate crystals, so keep it away from pets that chew houseplants.