UMBRELLA TREE PROFILE

The Umbrella Tree [Schefflera amate] is a fabulous houseplant; low maintenance, air purifying and looks so wispy and wonderful with large glossy leaves that resemble a hand with the fingers spread out. This variety was cultivated from the Schefflera actinophylla which stems from Australia / Oceania. This is not a narrow plant so make sure you have the space for it!

Origin
Native to Taiwan.
Positioning + Light Needs
Loves bright, indirect light but will tolerate moderate shade. Avoid direct sunlight.
Watering
Water when the top soil becomes slightly dry and allow to drain freely; they like to be moist but not wet, so don't leave them sitting in water. Reduce watering in the Winter.
Misting
Average humidity levels indoors are usually fine. When the warmer months arrive or if the air is dry in the room from central heating, improve humidity levels with some regular weekly misting.
Feeding
Feed me monthly every Spring and Summer with diluted liquid fertiliser.
Re-potting
Re-pot once every two years approximately, early Spring.
Child / Pet Friendly
No sorry, I'm considered mildly toxic.
Air Purifying
Yes, that's me! 
Look out for
Yellow and dropping leaves: An umbrella plant will naturally lose its lower leaves to encourage new growth. If it's losing a lot of upper leaves it could be any one of many conditions causing the problem, such as: over-watering (most common), under-watering, too much heat, sudden temperature drops or lack of light. You will need to go through a process of elimination.
Leaves, stems turning brown (rare): The most likely cause of the problem is over-watering, if the leaves or stems are soft. Check the roots to see if any root rot as set in and take remedial action. The tree will need all affected leaves, stalks and roots sections removed before re-potting to try and save the plant from dying.
Pests: Spider mite are a common threat to this plant and become more present in dry air conditions. Check for spider webbing under leaves at times and take remedial action straight away if needed.