Quick Alpine Schefflera Facts
Botanical name: Schefflera alpina
Height: 4-6 ft (1.2-1.8 m)
Spread: 12-36 in (31-91 cm)
Sun exposure: Indirect
Soil requirements: Slightly acidic
Hardiness zones: USDA zones 7-10
When to plant: Spring, fall
Flowering time: Late summer
Loved for their attractive foliage and compact size, Schefflera plants are ideal for introducing both color and texture to indoor spaces. As a houseplant, the species is especially prized for its ease of growth and purported ability to purify air. If you’re planning to grow alpine Schefflera for the first time you should consider the plant’s needs carefully.
In this guide, we’ll explore several of this schefflera's more distinctive characteristics, as well as its requirements for growth indoors.
Caring for Schefflera Alpina
Lighting Conditions
Plants grow best where they can receive bright, indirect light throughout the day. Indoor gardeners can meet these requirements by positioning potted plants near an east or west-facing window. Though these plants can tolerate low light conditions, inadequate light will likely slow their growth and/or cause some loss of vigor.
Temperature & Humidity
Alpine Schefflera plants are known for their ability to withstand cool conditions but when grown inside they appreciate warm temperatures, generally ranging between 60-75F (15-24C). Consistent humidity also helps the growth of these indoor plants. Routine misting helps regulate the moisture levels they require.
Watering Needs
Schefflera alpina plants appreciate consistent moisture. Water your containers and pots only when the soil has dried completely. Slow, deep irrigation is best, allowing for full saturation of the growing medium. However, take care not to overwater, as excess moisture can contribute to stress and the development of disease.
Fertilizing
Routine fertilizing is essential to keeping indoor plants looking their best. Annual applications of a well-balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring can support the plant’s growth. If you want to boost the production of foliage use fast-acting liquid feeds, applied weekly as per the manufacturer’s labeled instructions.
Soil & Compost
Potted Schefflera plants grow best in a high-quality potting mix. Good drainage is key, allowing excess water to move freely from the plants’ pots and containers. Slightly acidic planting medium helps the plant stay healthy by uptaking nutrients from the soil. Specialty mixes of finished compost, sand, grit, and other amendments may also be used.
Schefflera Problems, Pests & Diseases
Schefflera alpina plants are susceptible to a range of diseases, most of which stem from poor growing conditions. Root rot is the most common issue and is especially problematic when the plants are overwatered. Leaf spot may also be an issue, resulting in the development of brown-black lesions across stems and foliage, and often leading to the loss of plants. Aphids and scale insects are the most frequent pests of indoor Schefflera. Fortunately, most infestations can be easily controlled and only seldom result in serious harm to potted shrubs.
Where to Grow Schefflera Alpina
Most gardeners find Schefflera plants to be relatively carefree. Highly adaptable, they grow best indoors where they can receive ample light. Positioning your potted specimens in close proximity to a window is often ideal. Take special care to avoid direct exposure to the sun. These plants benefit from consistent warmth and moisture, kept safely from ventilation and/or sudden drafts.
Trimming and Shaping Schefflera Alpina
Regular pruning is an essential aspect of alpine Schefflera care. They are most commonly trimmed in spring, helping to promote growth and encourage the production of new foliage. Removing overgrown or leggy stem segments can also help shape the plants to maintain their desired size and shape. Smaller plants, like Shefflera alpina Junior, can be treated in the same manner.
Propagating Schefflera Alpina
Though alpine Schefflera can be grown from seed, these plants are most often propagated through cuttings. Small stem segments can be taken from the shrub in spring and continue through summer. The cuttings can then be prepared by removing the lower leaves from each segment.
Optionally, cuttings can be dipped into rooting hormone, before being placed into a soilless rooting medium. Propagation trays help maintain the ideal levels of warmth and moisture throughout the process, with new plants taking root within several weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Put My Schefflera Outside in Summer?
Schefflera plants can be moved outdoors where day and nighttime temperatures remain consistent through summer. Before doing so, be certain that conditions have sufficiently warmed in spring, and that all indoor specimens have been properly hardened off.
Will Schefflera Cuttings Root in Water?
Though the potential for rot is often a cause for concern, many growers have found success rooting Schefflera cuttings in water. Begin by cutting and preparing several stem segments. And place them into tepid water, situated so that they receive bright, indirect light. The water should be replaced regularly so that the vessel remains clean throughout the rooting process.
How Do I Make Schefflera Bushy?
Routine pruning can help promote the growth of Schefflera plants. Trimming plants in early spring helps to encourage branching and the production of lush, bushy foliage.