Queensland Umbrella Tree
Schefflera actinophylla
Schefflera actinophylla, commonly known as the Queensland Umbrella Tree, is a fast-growing, large evergreen tree native to tropical rainforests of northern Australia and New Guinea. It is famous for its large, palmately compound leaves that grow in clusters of 7 to 16, radiating outwards from leaf stalks like the ribs of an umbrella. Outdoors, it produces long, radiating spikes of crimson-red flowers resembling octopus tentacles, followed by dark purple berries. In colder climates, it makes a very popular, hardy indoor tree.
Native Origin & Climate
Tropical rainforests and gallery forests of Queensland, Northern Territory, and New Guinea.
Expert Pruning Tip
Indoor plants can be pinched back at the growing tips to encourage branching. Outdoors, be mindful of its aggressive root system near buildings.
In-Situ Environment
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Botanical Blueprint
Localized Australian Care Taxonomy
Easy Care. Adaptable, fast-growing, and highly resilient in both indoor and outdoor environments.
Bright indirect light indoors. Mature outdoor trees can grow in full sun, while young indoor plants adjust well to medium indirect light but prefer bright spots.
Moderate. Water when the top 3-4cm of potting soil feels dry. Dislikes soggy soil; ensure pot has excellent drainage.
Rich, organic-rich potting soil that drains well. Use a standard premium indoor mix with added perlite.
Prefers warm-temperate, subtropical, or tropical climates. Indoors, keep away from cold drafts and dry heaters; thrives in moderate humidity.
Can be propagated from semi-hardwood cuttings or air layering during warm spring or summer months.
Architectural and tropical. Large, glossy green leaf "umbrellas" create a dense, layered canopy, bringing dramatic visual height.
Ideal for spacious, brightly lit living room corners, office foyers, patio containers, or as a shade tree in large frost-free gardens.
Versatile Sheltered
Toxic:Contains calcium oxalate crystals. Toxic to dogs, cats, and humans, causing mouth pain, drooling, and vomiting.
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