umbrella plant (Schefflera) · Asked on Instagram · 31 October 2026
What is this tall houseplant with clusters of oval leaflets?
This is an umbrella plant, a Schefflera species often grown indoors as a tall houseplant. Start by giving it bright, indirect light and rotate it regularly so it doesn’t lean or get leggy.
The question
“Can anyone identify this plant?”
What's likely going on
The plant in the photo is an umbrella plant (Schefflera), most likely Schefflera arboricola or a similar species. You can tell by the way the leaves are arranged in a circle at the end of each stem, like the spokes of an umbrella, with several smooth, oval leaflets radiating from one point.
The tall, bare canes with foliage mostly at the top suggest it has grown for years in one direction toward the light, becoming a bit leggy (long stems, fewer leaves below). This is common for older Scheffleras kept indoors.
What to do
Choose a good spot
Place it in bright, indirect light – near a window with filtered sun is ideal. It will tolerate lower light but will stretch even more.Water correctly
Water when the top 2–3 cm of soil feel dry. Soak thoroughly, then let excess drain. Avoid leaving water in the saucer.Support or prune
If it’s leaning, gently tie it to a stake. If you want a fuller plant, you can cut back the tall canes by about one‑third in spring; new shoots will grow from below the cuts.Feed lightly
During the growing season, use a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer at half strength once a month.Check for pests
Look under leaves and along stems for sticky residue or tiny insects (scale, spider mites). Wipe leaves with a damp cloth; use insecticidal soap if needed (keep away from pets until dry).
How to prevent it
- Rotate the pot every few weeks so all sides get light.
- Avoid deep shade if you want compact, leafy growth.
- Repot every 2–3 years into a slightly larger pot with well‑draining mix.
When to worry
- Lots of yellow, dropping leaves: often overwatering or very low light. Check roots for rot and adjust watering.
- Sticky leaves or webbing: treat promptly for pests.
- Stems soft or collapsing: this can signal root rot; remove from soggy soil and trim dead roots.
Otherwise, Scheffleras are tough, long‑lived houseplants and can bounce back well with better light and an occasional prune.
Answered by the GrowPls assistant. Every plant and room is different; if things don't improve, a clear close-up photo of the affected part is the fastest way to a better answer.
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What are the white bugs on my indoor succulent and will soap kill them?
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How often should I water my houseplants?
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