Caring for an Umbella Tree
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The Umbrella Tree (Brassaia, was Schefflera actinophylla) is
one of those plants that you find in offices and shopping malls
that can handle any light, an average soil, temperature and
humidity, and basically can handle neglect. But, it's also
a plant that if nurtured can be a beautiful and striking "tree"
in your home. It can grow up to six foot tall!
It will need to be watered when the top layer of soil is dried. It's best not to allow the soil to dry out between waterings for it to do it's best. The foliage benefits from spraying (a great outdoor task in the warm weather!). If the leaves begin to blacken, shrivel or die, it's a sign of overwatering. Keep it away from very hot sun or complete shade. Something in the middle is good for it, and that makes it a great plant for a corner! During the winter months it could use some extra sunshine and be sure to keep it away from cold drafts. In the summer you can move it to the patio or deck, but remember to keep out of the hot sun, and water it more often as it will dry out quicker outside. The plant will form suckers at the bottom as it becomes older. Cut these off with a sharp knife and root them in moist sand. Pot them up after the roots form. The umbrella tree is a great plant to accent a room, whether a corner, an entry way or another spot that you need a dramatic, but easy to care for plant.
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