Schefflera Schefflera arboricola
At a glance
- Light
- Bright indirect
- 8000–20000 lux
- Water
- Every 7–14 days
- Top 2-3cm of soil
- Humidity
- 40–60%
- Tolerates dry air
- Temperature
- 13–24°C
- Ideal 18–24°C
- Soil pH
- 6–6.5
- well-draining
- Mature size
- 240 cm tall
- 90 cm wide
- Native to
- Taiwan, Hainan
- Growth
- Moderate
- Tree
Watering calculator
Estimate how often to water your Schefflera based on pot size, light, and season.
Always check the top 2 cm of soil before watering. Calculator output is an estimate, not a schedule.
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Compare with similar plants
| Trait | Schefflera Schefflera arboricola | Rubber Plant Ficus elastica | Fiddle Leaf Fig Ficus lyrata |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light | Bright indirect | Bright indirect | Bright indirect |
| Water | 7–14 days | 7–14 days | 7–10 days |
| Pet safe | Toxic to cats and dogs | Toxic to cats and dogs | Toxic to cats and dogs |
| Difficulty | Easy | Easy | Challenging |
| Mature size | 240 cm | 250 cm | 250 cm |
Light requirements in detail
Schefflera prefers bright indirect (8000–20000 lux) . Variegated cultivars need brighter light; in low light leaves drop and growth becomes leggy
A spot 1–2 meters from a bright east or south-facing window usually fits this range. Direct afternoon sun through unfiltered glass can scorch leaves; sheer curtains help diffuse it.
Watering in detail
Water Schefflera every 7– 14 days during the growing season, allowing Top 2-3cm of soil to dry between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter when growth slows.
This plant tolerates the occasional missed watering — err on the dry side rather than overwater.
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Frequently asked questions about Schefflera
How often should I water Schefflera?
Water Schefflera every 7–14 days during the growing season, allowing Top 2-3cm of soil to dry between waterings. Reduce frequency by 30–50% in winter.
What kind of light does Schefflera need?
Schefflera prefers bright indirect (8000–20000 lux). Variegated cultivars need brighter light; in low light leaves drop and growth becomes leggy
Is Schefflera toxic to cats?
Schefflera is toxic to cats (mild severity). Toxic compounds: insoluble calcium oxalate crystals, terpenoids. Common symptoms: oral irritation, intense burning of mouth, drooling, vomiting, difficulty swallowing.
Is Schefflera toxic to dogs?
Schefflera is toxic to dogs (mild severity). Toxic compounds: insoluble calcium oxalate crystals, terpenoids. Common symptoms: oral irritation, intense burning of mouth, drooling, vomiting, pawing at mouth.
How big does Schefflera grow?
Schefflera reaches about 240 cm tall and 90 cm wide at maturity. Growth rate is moderate.