Slender Schefflera (Schefflera attenuata)

Slender Schefflera

Schefflera attenuata

Slender palmate leaves lend airy, graceful texture to indoor spaces. Evergreen upright foliage shrub; common name: dwarf umbrella tree.

Partial sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Bright indirect light; tolerates low light for short periods but grows slower; avoid harsh midday direct sun to prevent leaf scorch
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Watering Water thoroughly only when the top 2–3 cm of soil is completely dry; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
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Temperature Thrives at 18–26°C; protect from temperatures below 12°C to avoid leaf drop and cold damage
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Compound palmate leaves with 7–10 slender, glossy green leaflets arranged radially on long petioles
  • Flower: Small, creamy-white umbel clusters (rarely produced in indoor cultivation)
  • Stem: Woody, upright stems with whorled leaf attachment nodes
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged; mist leaves 1–2 times weekly to boost humidity

Fertilization

Diluted balanced liquid fertilizer every 2 weeks. Discontinue fertilization in autumn and winter when growth slows

Composted coffee grounds tea:Use only fully composted coffee grounds; dilute 1:20 with water and apply as a root drench to avoid leaf burn and pest issues
Pruning
  • Remove yellow or brown leaflets at the base of the petiole to maintain appearance
  • Trim overgrown stems in early spring to encourage bushier, compact growth
  • Cut back leggy growth by one-third to promote new foliage development
  • Remove any dead or damaged stems to improve airflow
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; calcium oxalate crystals cause oral pain, drooling, and vomiting

Humans: Contains calcium oxalate crystals; ingestion causes oral irritation and mild swelling; contact may trigger minor skin itch

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental indoor foliage plant; has mild air-purifying properties