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Conservatory GreenhouseShrubsTreesHouseplantsSynonym

Schefflera actinophylla
  • RHS AGM

Queensland umbrella tree

An evergreen shrub or small tree to 4m or more, with leathery leaves composed of 5 or more radiating oblong leaflets to 30cm in length; erect panicles of small dull red flowers, followed by black fruits

Other common names
Australian ivy palm
octopus tree
Synonyms
Schefflera actinophylla
Brassaia actinophylla
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Size
Ultimate height
2.5–4 metres
Time to ultimate height
10–20 years
Ultimate spread
1.5–2.5 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Red Green
Autumn Green Black
Winter Green
Position
  • Full sun
  • Partial shade
Aspect

West–facing or South–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H1B
Botanical details
Family
Araliaceae
Native to the UK
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Bushy
Genus

A genus of over 300 different species of evergreen, tropical and subtropical trees and shrubs originally from Asia. Characteristic leaves are round, palmately compound, with long stalks and 3-30 stalked leaflets. Some species are familiar as houseplants

Name status

Correct

Plant range
Australia & New Guinea

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow under glass or in a sheltered, frost-free enviroment. Leaves of juvenile plants have fewer smaller leaflets than adult plants

Propagation

Propagate by seed or semi-hardwood cuttings

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Patio and container plants
Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

May be susceptible to soft scale, thrips and mealybugs

Diseases

Generally disease-free

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