Short answer
The umbrella plant (Schefflera, also sold as umbrella tree) can be grown either indoors or outdoors, but which is right depends on your climate. It is a tropical plant, so in most temperate regions it is kept as a houseplant. Outdoors it is only suited to warm, frost-free areas, or to a sheltered spot in summer if you bring it back inside.
Growing indoors
Umbrella plants adapt well to indoor life and are widely sold as houseplants.
- Light: bright, indirect light is a good target. Some tolerance of lower light is reported, but growth can become leggy (compare tall houseplants that don’t need sun).
- Watering: water when the top few centimetres (an inch or so) of soil feel dry, then let the excess drain. Overwatering is a common cause of trouble.
- Size: indoors, they usually stay a manageable size, often a metre or two tall, though they can grow taller if left alone and can be pruned to size.
- Other: moderate room temperatures, average humidity, and protection from cold drafts.
Growing outdoors
Outside, umbrella plants can grow much larger, becoming big shrubs or small trees in suitable warm climates. They are not frost hardy, so they are generally only planted out where winters are mild. Dappled or bright shade tends to suit them better than strong afternoon sun.
If you want to give a potted plant a summer outdoors, wait until nights are reliably warm, introduce it to brighter light gradually, and bring it back inside before temperatures drop. Check for pests before bringing it in.
Are umbrella plants tropical?
Yes, they originate from warmer regions and prefer warmth. That is why cold air, frost and chilly drafts can cause leaf drop or damage.
Is an umbrella tree hard to care for?
Most people find it fairly easygoing compared with fussier plants. It generally asks for steady light, sensible watering and occasional pruning. Common mistakes are keeping the soil constantly wet, moving the plant often, and placing it in a very dark corner.
Leaf drop and common problems
- Leaves dropping: often follows a move, a draft, low light, or over- or underwatering.
- Yellowing leaves: can mean the soil is staying too wet.
- Brown, crispy edges: may be dry air or irregular watering.
- Pests: spider mites, scale and mealybugs can occur; inspect leaves regularly.
Pruning in spring can help control size and encourage branching. Repot only when roots fill the pot.
Benefits
Umbrella plants are mostly valued for their glossy, layered foliage and their forgiving nature. You may see claims that they purify air, but the effect in a normal home is considered small, so choose one for its looks rather than as an air cleaner (see best indoor plants for breathing easier).
Pet and child safety
Schefflera is listed by the ASPCA as toxic to cats and dogs, with the plant containing insoluble calcium oxalates that can irritate the mouth and stomach. Keep it out of reach of pets and young children. If you suspect chewing or swallowing, contact a veterinarian, doctor or poison helpline.
Related reading
If you are choosing among tree-like houseplants, you may also like our guides on fiddle leaf fig outdoors and the China doll plant.