Schefflera Amate

Schefflera Amate Care

Schefflera actinophylla

What is the plant

The good hardiness and bright red blooms appearing on mature trees from summer to early autumn have made this tropical species extremely popular among gardeners. It mainly grows in temperate or warm climates as an ornamental tree in large gardens, while young plants can also grow as houseplants in temperate regions.

Also known under the popular names of an Australian (or Queensland) Umbrella Tree, Octopus Tree, or simply Amate, the Schefflera Amate (Heptapleurum actinophylla) is a tall evergreen tree belonging to the Araliaceae family. The tropical and gallery forests of Australia, New Guinea, and Java are the native habitat, where trees reach 49 ft (15 m) in height, which is one of the main identification features, while ampelous or potted — up to 10 ft (3 m).

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Humidity

High

Lighting

Part Sun

Temperature

20°C - 25°C

Hardiness zone

9b - 11b

Difficulty

Medium

Hibernation

Cold Period

Toxicity

Poisonous

How to Care for the Plant

Water
The Amate requires plentiful watering (once in three weeks), especially in summer, during active growth (once a week). It needs moisture after full drying of the substrate’s top layer. Spray the leaves daily in hot and dry indoor environments.
Pruning
Carry out sanitary pruning all year round, and remove branches that break the shape from the crown in early spring. If there is not enough light at home or in the garden, you will have to cut the plant constantly to preserve its decorative effect.
Fertilizer
During the active growing season, periodically feed the Heptapleurum actinophylla using liquid fertilizers rich in foliage in place with watering. Subtract half from the manufacturer’s stated recommended dosage.

Disease diagnosis

Check your plant’s health

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Sunlight
Places with lots of light promote the formation of leaf plates. However, you should shade the top to avoid burns. You can achieve diffused lighting mode using curtains, shielding, or another shading.
Soil
Prefers well-drained soil. The well-suited substrate for this tropical plant is a slightly acidic mixture consisting of clay, lavalite, and sand. Quartz sand improves drainage efficiency and disease- resistance.
Propagation
It is quite difficult to breed the species on your own, especially for beginners. You may use cuttings, the fastest and most convenient way to get a new plant.

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Temperature
The houseplants will grow at a minimum temperature of 55 °F (13 °C). If it drops to 54 °F (12 °C), the plant sheds foliage and dies. In summer, the normal temperature for the growth of Schefflera ranges from 68 to 27 °F (20 to 25 °C).
Container
Accompany a wide container of water-loving Amate with a high pallet.
Fun fact
Notwithstanding the commonness, the Schefflera Amate is an aggressive plant, the roots of which are able to influence the surrounding soil. Can you believe it? In some regions, such as the states of Florida and Hawaii, it is classified as an invasive weed, so its planting is discouraged.