With its harmoniously rounded leaves that radiate out from the trunk on long stems, the radiant aralia looks extremely friendly. As a plant originally native to the tropics, it has now become extremely popular as a plant for indoor cultivation.
How do I care for a Schefflera houseplant?
The Schefflera is a tropical houseplant that prefers bright and moderately warm locations (15-20 °C). It requires regular watering, fertilization every 2 weeks (March-September) and tolerates cutting well. Popular species include S. actinophylla, S. arboricola, S. elegantissima and S. veitchii.
A houseplant for bright and moderately warm locations
You should place the Schefflera in a bright place. However, it should not be exposed to direct sun. Window areas facing east or west are ideal. Furthermore, the location should be warm. Temperatures between 15 and 20 °C are optimal.
Popular species for pot cultivation
The following species are important for indoor culture:
- Schefflera actinophylla: up to 200 cm high, slightly arching leaves, long petioles
- Schefflera arboricola: up to 150 cm high, palmately divided, dark green leaves
- Schefflera elegantissima: up to 80 cm high, strongly toothed leaf edges, central edge lighter colored
- Schefflera veitchii: up to 100 cm high, wavy leaf edges, broad leaves
Care requirements: watering, fertilizing and cutting
This houseplant doesn't require too much care. As with other plants, it is important to water them regularly, ideally with stale tap water. In view of this, fertilization is of secondary importance. It should be done every 2 weeks between March and September.
When cutting, the Schefflerla is strong-willed and robust. It tolerates cutting without any problems and sprouts bushy again. If you don't cut it regularly, you will have to cut it down at some point as it keeps growing.
Special features that impress the Schefflera
Although this houseplant is poisonous, it has many benefits:
- easy to cut
- easy to propagate
- robust disposition
- not susceptible to disease
- 50 cm to 3 m high
- radial, leathery, shiny leaves
- beautiful flowers
Tip
In summer you can put this houseplant outside in partial shade for a few hours. The fresh air will do her good.
