Evergreen Trees

Umbrella Tree

Schefflera actinophylla

Schefflera actinophylla is an evergreen tree with distinctive radiating leaves, native to tropical and subtropical regions. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and flowers during spring and summer.

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Attributes

Soil

Chalk, Loam, Sand

Soil pH

Acid, Alkaline, Neutral

Min. temperature

10 °C

Data: Royal Horticultural Society, Missouri Botanical Garden

Evergreen Attracts pollinators Tolerant to heat

Care guide

Sun

Full sun to partial shade

Water

Moderate

Height

6–12 m

Hardiness

Medium

Flowering

Spring–Summer

Foliage

Evergreen

In Cyprus

The umbrella tree (Schefflera actinophylla, now also Heptapleurum actinophyllum) is a tropical evergreen from New Guinea and northern Australia. NC State treats it as hardy outdoors only in climates that are practically frost-free, so in Cyprus it belongs in warm, sheltered positions; in frost-prone areas, suitability depends on the local microclimate. Plant it in spring, once the risk of cold has passed. It needs rich, moist but well-drained soil: waterlogging encourages rot, while drought makes it drop leaves. It takes sun to partial shade but prefers protection from hot afternoon sun, especially during heatwaves.

Uses in gardens and projects

Its large, radiating leaves give an instant tropical look as a specimen plant in atriums, courtyards and hotel gardens. NC State notes it can reach about 12 m in ideal tropical conditions, while indoors it stays far smaller; size can be controlled by pruning. Growing it in a container that is moved under cover in winter is practical only for young, manageable plants. All parts are toxic if eaten and the sap can irritate skin, so keep it away from children and pets.

Frequently asked questions

How tall does an umbrella tree get?: According to NC State it can reach about 12 m in ideal tropical conditions, while as an indoor plant it stays around 1.2–1.8 m. Pruning keeps it in check.
Is it toxic?: Yes. All parts are toxic if ingested and the sap can cause skin irritation. Keep it out of reach of children and pets.
Can it survive frost?: No. It is a tropical plant, considered hardy outdoors only in practically frost-free climates. Where frost occurs, give it protection or grow it in a pot that can be moved under cover for winter.
Does it need sun or shade?: Sun to partial shade, with protection from hot afternoon sun, particularly for plants that have not been acclimatised.