Plant Care Guides / Indoor / Easy Care
The schefflera is named for its umbrella-like clusters of leaves, each made up of several glossy leaflets radiating from a central point. It grows into a handsome, upright plant that brings structure and greenery to a room without needing constant attention. This covers both the compact arboricola forms (including Gold Capella with its yellow variegation) and the larger Madame De Smet.
Scheffleras are fast growers when they are happy. If yours gets too tall or leggy, do not be afraid to cut it back hard in spring. It will resprout from below the cut and grow back bushier.
Bright, indirect light. Variegated forms like Gold Capella need more light to hold their colour. Green forms tolerate medium to low light well, though they grow more slowly. Avoid harsh direct sun.
Water when the top few centimetres of soil are dry. It does not like soggy soil, so let it drain properly and never leave it sitting in a saucer of water. In winter, reduce watering. It appreciates a little extra humidity but copes fine in normal household conditions.
Feed every two weeks through spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertiliser. Reduce to monthly in autumn and stop in winter.
Repot every one to two years in spring. Use a well-draining potting mix. A slightly heavier pot helps with stability as the plant grows tall.
Ask about availability. We keep a changing range of indoor plants. WhatsApp us to see what is in store, or pop in and we will help you choose.
