by Dawn Hawkins

Created on: March 31, 2009   Last Updated: April 27, 2012

The Umbrella plant is an indoor tree that is very easy to care for. That makes this plant one of the most popular house plants available. Its botanical name is Schefflera arboricola 'Compacta'. It has glossy green leaves that form an umbrella shape, thus its name. It can grow to an incredible eight feet in height. As it gets more mature, the leaves begin to grow 12 to each stem rather than the original 4 leaves.

Here are some simple steps to taking care of your Umbrella plant so that it will be around for years to come:

Light

Although you will want to keep your Umbrella plant in a well-lit area, be careful to keep it away from direct sunlight. Diffused lighting will be greatly appreciated by your beautiful plant.

Water

Watering this plant should be done with care. Give the plant plenty of water. Allow the soil to dry to half an inch deep. Once it has dried enough, add more water. You want to make sure that you don't leave water sitting in the saucer that you have it sitting on. It is also important that you be careful of overwatering during the winter months. This will cause the leaves on the plant to loose its glossy color. Eventually, it will cause the leaves to fall off.

Possible Pest Problems

This plant doesn't often get bothered with pests. However, it has been known at times to get Mealybugs, scale insects and mites. If you turn the leaf over, you may see tiny flat spots in dark brown, green, white or even grey color. These are insects the previously mentioned insects.

Fertilizer

This plant doesn't need the frequent use of a fertilizer. The best type of fertilizer for the Umbrella plant is one that is used for foliage plants. This is due to the fact that the plant is not in direct sunlight. It needs less aid than a plant that is in full sunlight.

Grooming (Pruning)

In order to get a plant that is smaller in size, you may pinch back the growing tips of this plant. This will keep the plant from overtaking your entire room.

This plant grows in a tree-like form. It is known to show significant growth in just a few years. A stem grows from the main branch and carries four to five leaves. They are spread in a round shape. They resemble the fingers on our hands. If planted in good soil it will grow quickly. It loves partially shaded areas.

The Umbrella plant will help keep the pollution level in your home to a minimum as well as adding beauty to it. If you follow the care instructions carefully, you should get years of pleasure from this plant.

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