Not the plant you're looking for? Search over 300,000 plants

Schefflera macrophylla

A hardy species of exotic-looking deciduous tree which can be grown as a houseplant but can reach a height of up to 8m in the right conditions, with large, broad, heavily veined green foliage providing a jungle-like feel. The large foliage may be susceptible to wind damage so if grown outside, it is best placed against a south-facing, sheltered wall in dappled sunlight

Synonyms
Heptapleurum petelotii misapplied
Schefflera petelotii misapplied
see moreSchefflera macrophylla

Join the RHS

Become an RHS Member today and save 25% on your first year

Join now
Buy this plant
Size
Ultimate height
4–8 metres
Time to ultimate height
5–10 years
Ultimate spread
1–1.5 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Green
Autumn Green
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
  • Partial shade
Aspect

South–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H3
Botanical details
Family
Araliaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Columnar upright
Genus

A genus of over 300 different species of evergreen, tropical and subtropical trees and shrubs originally from Asia. Characteristic leaves are round, palmately compound, with long stalks and 3-30 stalked leaflets. Some species are familiar as houseplants

Name status

Correct

Plant range
China Vietnam

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in a bright position, out of direct sunlight in moist but well drained soil. If grown outside, choose a sheltered position against a south-facing wall. Feed during the growing season, stopping when the temperature drops or the plant becomes inactive. Avoid overwatering

Propagation

Propagate by removing the growing tips as cuttings in spring. This may prove to be difficult but worth trying

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Architectural
  • Conservatory and greenhouse
  • Wall side borders
Pruning

No pruning required, but to keep it compact, pinch out upward-facing growing shoots to encourage more bushy growth lower down the plant

Pests

May be susceptible to mealybugs, aphids, thrip and red spider mite

Diseases

May be susceptible to a leaf spot

Get involved

The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.