Schefflera actinophylla

Umbrella Tree

Araliaceae

Form and Size: A medium tree usually 6-10m high in cultivation; often multi-stemmed.

Distribution: Eastern Qld., from Cape York to near Miriam Vale, and the Top End of N.T.; in coastal rainforest.

Leaves: Compound, 7-16 leaflets arranged in palmate form, leaflets broadly oblong, glossy dark green, tip pointed, 12.5-24cm x 6-11cm; leaflet stalk to 9cm long, main stalk to 50cm long.

Bark: Smooth, pale grey.

Flowers: Red or pink-red, 0.5-0.8cm diameter, stalkless; borne in tight clusters of 9-12 flowers along a spike 40-70cm long; generally 10-15 spikes forming a terminal, umbrella-shaped inflorescence.

Flowering Period: November to March.

Fruit: Reddish to purple-black, globular, smooth, fleshy, 0.5-0.7cm diameter; numerous wafer-like seeds in purple flesh.

Cultivation/Notes:  Propagate from fresh seed or cuttings. Will tolerate a wide range of conditions but prefers well-drained soils and abundant water. It will grow for years as a potted plant and will tolerate low light conditions. Both the abundant nectar and the fleshy fruit are avidly sought by birds, particularly the Lorikeet.
This tree has a particularly invasive root system and should not be planted near drainage pipes, paths, septic systems or foundations