Care of Schefflera

De Schefflera, ook bekend als de vingerboom, is een sterke en luchtzuiverende kamerplant met sierlijke, handvormige bladeren. In deze gids lees je in het kort hoe je de plant eenvoudig gezond en mooi houdt.

Schefflera care

With its graceful, hand-shaped leaves and fresh green appearance, the Schefflera (also known as the umbrella plant) is a beautiful addition to any interior. This tropical houseplant is strong, air-purifying and relatively easy to care for.

On this care page, you’ll find everything you need to know to keep your Schefflera healthy and thriving!

Schefflera care tips at a glance

Placement

• Scheffleras love plenty of light, but not direct sunlight. Too much sun can bleach or burn the leaves.
• A spot near an east- or west-facing window is ideal.
• The plant grows best in temperatures between 16°C and 24°C.
• Avoid cold drafts, dry air and sudden temperature changes.

Water and humidity

• Water the Schefflera moderately. Allow the topsoil to dry slightly before watering again.
• In winter, the soil may stay a little drier compared to summer.
• Scheffleras appreciate average humidity and aren’t very demanding. Mist the leaves occasionally to remove dust and prevent brown edges.

Nutrition

• During the growing season (March–September), feed once per month with liquid houseplant fertiliser.
• In autumn and winter, the plant does not need additional feeding.

Soil and pot

• Use universal potting soil or a houseplant mix with good drainage.
• Ensure excess water can drain freely to prevent root rot.
• Repot every 2–3 years into a slightly larger decorative pot (2–3 cm wider) to stimulate growth.

Guarantee Fresh from the grower
Delivery type Houseplant delivered in growing pot
Latijnse naam Schefflera
Location Normal daylight
Water requirements Approximately once or twice a week
Toxic Mildly toxic if ingested
Air purifying Yes
Maintenance Low

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“The Schefflera likes a bright spot with indirect sunlight. Too little light causes the plant to stretch and drop leaves, while direct sun can scorch them.
An east- or west-facing window is perfect.”

Frequently asked questions about the Schefflera

Quick answers to the most common questions about water, light, nutrition and care.
Can the Schefflera be placed in direct sunlight?
Preferably not. Place the plant in a spot with bright, indirect light.
Why is my Schefflera losing leaves?
This may be due to insufficient light, excessive watering, or drafts.
Is Schefflera toxic to pets?
Yes, Schefflera is slightly toxic if ingested. Prevent pets from eating the leaves.
How large can a Schefflera grow?
Indoors, a Schefflera can grow to between 1 and 2 meters tall, depending on care and space.
Why are the leaves of my Schefflera turning yellow?
Yellow leaves often indicate too much water or poor drainage. Check whether the pot has holes, whether water is standing in the bottom, and adjust the watering schedule.
Why does my Schefflera appear to be growing in an elongated or sluggish manner?
This is usually due to insufficient light. In a location that is too dark, the plant will grow slowly and the stems will become long and thin. Place the plant closer to a window (not in direct sunlight).
Can the Schefflera be placed in a bathroom or dark room?
It is fairly tolerant and can be placed in rooms with less light, but it will grow less quickly and may become leggy. Ideally, you should choose a bright space.
How do I know when to repot my Schefflera?
• Roots are coming out of the drainage hole or lying on top of the soil.
• Growth is severely stunted; soil is depleted or compacted.
• Repot once every 2-3 years or as soon as these signs appear.

Choose a pot that is only 1-2 cm larger in diameter than the current one to avoid overpotting.

Everything you need to know about the umbrella plant

The Schefflera is a strong houseplant that grows well with minimal attention. Still, there are several care tips that help your umbrella plant stay a stunning eye-catcher for years.

Best placement

The Schefflera loves a bright spot with indirect sunlight. Too little light causes stretching and leaf drop, while direct sun can burn the leaves.

An east- or west-facing window is perfect. If placed near a south-facing window, move it slightly away from the glass.

Watering

The Schefflera dislikes wet feet. Allow the top layer of soil to dry before watering again.

In summer you typically water once a week; in winter less often depending on temperature and humidity.

Too much water leads quickly to yellow leaves or root rot — always use a pot with drainage holes.

Humidity and temperature

Originally from tropical regions, the Schefflera thrives in room temperatures of 16–24°C.

Although it doesn’t require high humidity, it benefits from occasional misting to remove dust and keep the foliage fresh.

Avoid placing it near heaters or in drafty areas.

Soil and repotting

Use airy, well-draining potting soil.

Choose a pot with drainage holes so excess water can escape.

Repot every 2–3 years, preferably in spring, when the plant begins its growth cycle.

Feeding

During the growing season (March–September), feed monthly.

In autumn and winter (October–February), the plant rests and does not require nutrients.

Pruning

Scheffleras respond well to pruning.

Cutting helps keep the plant compact and full. Trim long or bare stems to the desired length — new shoots will appear naturally.

Remove old or yellow leaves to keep the plant tidy.

Propagation

Scheffleras are easy to propagate.

Cut a young, healthy stem of about 10 cm and place it in water or moist soil.

Within weeks, roots will form. When well-rooted, repot into its own pot.

Common problems

• Yellow leaves: too much water or too little light
• Leaf drop: caused by drafts, sudden temperature changes or dry air
• Brown tips: dry air or insufficient water
• Pale leaves: not enough light