Schefflera arboricola Variegated

Common Name:
Dwarf Umbrella Tree (Variegated)

Description:
Schefflera arboricola 'Variegated' is a compact, multi-stemmed evergreen shrub known for its distinctive umbrella-like leaf clusters, each leaf radiating in a circle from a central point. This variegated form features striking green foliage splashed and marbled with creamy yellow, giving it a bright, decorative quality that enhances indoor spaces and shaded gardens alike. Native to Taiwan and Hainan, this variety performs well in containers and adapts to both indoor and outdoor growing when protected from frost. In Melbourne, it is best suited to well-lit indoor positions or warm, sheltered patios. Preferring moist, well-drained soil and a stable environment, it is easy to maintain and responds well to light pruning. While it can flower with small, rounded clusters in ideal conditions, flowering is rare in Melbourne's indoor or temperate environments. The real appeal lies in its dense, ornamental foliage.

Form:

• Shrub - Medium

• Shrub - Small

• Shrub - Clumping / Grass-like / Mounding

Mature Size:

• Height: 1.5–2 metres

• Width: 1–1.5 metres

Aspect:

• Part Shade

• Full Shade

• Indoors / Well lit

Flowering:

• Does not flower under Melbourne's weather conditions

Flower Colour:

• Not applicable

Key Attributes:

• Suitable for Pots

• Disease Resistant

• Suitable for Topiary

• Suitable for Hedging (indoors or protected outdoor settings)

• Air-purifying qualities (indoors)

Toxicity:

• Toxic to pets (cats and dogs) if ingested; may cause oral irritation, vomiting, and drooling

Companion Plants:

• Ficus elastica (Rubber Plant)

• Aspidistra elatior (Cast Iron Plant)

• Dracaena fragrans

• Aglaonema 'Silver Queen'

• Philodendron 'Xanadu'