Schefflera nora

The Schefflera genus has two species that make great house plants: Schefflera actinophylla and Schefflera nora. Schefflera are sometimes called the Umbrella Plant because their long, shiny, leaves droop from a stalk like an umbrella. When they are young, they could have four to six leaflets from a single stalk and when mature they might have 12 to 16 leaflets.

 

During the growing season, feed your Schefflera plants twice a week with liquid fertilizer - they are heavy feeders and will love the extra nutrients. Spray the leaves frequently and water each week during the growing season but cut back on water during the winter. Wait until their soil dries out and then thoroughly soak the soil. Yellow, drooped leaves is a sign that you have been watering too much; often Schefflera plants are overwatered, and they die. Bright, indirect light is best for an Umbrella Plant; never place them in direct sun because this can scald the leaves. A Schefflera plant may become leggy or floppy which lets you know that they might not be receiving enough light. When pruning, cut off any parts of the plant that seem overgrown. Schefflera houseplants rebound quickly from pruning and look great afterwards; you will end up with a lusher and more full-looking plant. The Umbrella Plant is susceptible to aphids, mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. A well-draining sandy loam soil with a slightly acidic pH is ideal.

 

They will purify the air in your home and are generally disease free. This plant could make people and pets unwell if eaten.