Heptapleurum arboricola 'Variegata'

Bring instant brightness to any room with the Variegated Dwarf Umbrella Tree. Its golden-cream and green leaves create a premium, lively look that elevates living rooms, entrances, and workspaces. Easy to care for, forgiving, and simple to shape with light pruning—this is a top choice for stylish interiors. Place it in bright indirect light, water when the top soil dries, and enjoy a fuller, fresher space (keep out of reach of pets and children).

1. Basic Identification

Common Name: Variegated Dwarf Umbrella Tree
Botanical Name: Heptapleurum arboricola 'Variegata'
Former Name: Schefflera arboricola 'Variegata'
Plant Type: Foliage houseplant
Plant Code / SKU: PLT-0150
Alternative Names:
Dwarf Schefflera
Umbrella Plant
Aralia
Arabic Name: أراليا

2. Taxonomy & Classification

Order: Apiales
Family: Araliaceae
Genus: Heptapleurum
Species: H. arboricola

3. Origin & Distribution

Native to the island of Taiwan and Hainan in southern China. Widely cultivated and naturalized in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. Commonly grown as an indoor ornamental in temperate zones.

4. Visual Characteristics

Palmate compound leaves bearing 7–16 narrow, lanceolate leaflets radiating from a central point. Leaflets display creamy-gold margins with green centers; new growth often emerges lighter, maturing to distinct variegation. Stems are slender, woody, and branching. Flowers are small, greenish-white umbels, rarely produced indoors.

5. Size & Dimensions

Indoors: typically 60–150 cm (2–5 ft) tall with a spread of 45–60 cm (1.5–2 ft). Growth rate is slow to moderate. Outdoors in ideal conditions, can reach up to 2 m (6.5 ft) tall.

6. Light Requirements

Thrives in bright, indirect light. Tolerates moderate light but may lose variegation and become leggy in low light. Avoid direct midday sun to prevent leaf scorch.

7. Watering Needs

Water thoroughly when the top 2–3 cm (0.75–1 in) of soil feels dry. Ensure excess water drains freely; do not allow soil to remain waterlogged. Reduce frequency during winter dormancy.

8. Soil & Potting

Use a well-draining potting mix rich in organic matter (peat moss or coconut coir) blended with perlite or coarse sand. Ideal pH is slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0). Repot every 2–3 years or when root-bound.

9. Temperature & Humidity

Optimal temperature: 18–29 °C (65–85 °F). Minimum tolerance: 13 °C (55 °F). Prefers moderate to high humidity (50–70%). In drier indoor environments, occasional misting or a humidity tray is beneficial.

10. Fertilization

Feed monthly during the active growing season (spring through summer) with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer (e.g., 20-20-20) at half the recommended strength. Suspend or reduce feeding in fall and winter.

11. Maintenance & Care Level

Care level: low to moderate. Prune lightly to maintain shape, remove leggy or damaged growth, and encourage bushiness. Wipe leaves occasionally to remove dust and improve photosynthesis.

12. Growth & Propagation

Propagation: semi-ripe stem cuttings taken in spring or summer. Use 10–15 cm (4–6 in) cuttings below a node, allow to callus, and root in moist medium. Air layering is also effective. Seed propagation is uncommon.

13. Common Problems

Overwatering can lead to root rot and yellowing leaves; underwatering causes drooping or leaf drop. Low light may reduce variegation and slow growth. Susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, scale, and aphids; inspect regularly and treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

14. Benefits & Uses

Ornamental focal point in homes, offices, and commercial spaces due to striking variegation and compact form. Improves indoor air quality by filtering common VOCs such as formaldehyde and benzene. Non-allergenic foliage makes it suitable for most interiors.

15. Toxicity & Safety

Contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals; toxic if ingested by pets (cats, dogs) or humans. Symptoms include oral irritation, drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. Keep out of reach of children and animals.