Dwarf Taiwan Schefflera (Schefflera taiwaniana 'Junior')

Dwarf Taiwan Schefflera

Schefflera taiwaniana 'Junior'

Compact, lush foliage brings quiet green warmth to small spaces. Dwarf evergreen foliage shrub; common name: Dwarf Taiwan Schefflera.

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 extended low light may cause leggy growth; avoid direct midday sun to prevent leaf scorch
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Watering Water thoroughly only when the top 2–3 cm of soil feels dry to the touch; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot and fungal growth
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Temperature Thrives in temperatures between 15–25°C; protect from temperatures below 10°C to avoid leaf drop and cold damage
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Compound palmate leaves with 7–9 glossy, dark green leaflets, 3–5 cm long
  • Stem: Short, woody stems with dense branching for a tight, compact form
  • Inflorescence: Small, creamy white umbel clusters (rarely produced in indoor cultivation)
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil slightly moist, allowing the top layer to dry between waterings

Fertilization

Apply diluted balanced fertilizer every 2 weeks. Avoid fertilizing in winter when growth is dormant to prevent nutrient buildup in soil

Banana peel compost tea:Fully compost banana peels before steeping; dilute the tea 1:20 with water for root drenching; do not apply undiluted compost to avoid odor and pest attraction
Pruning
  • Trim leggy stems in spring to maintain a compact, bushy form
  • Remove yellowing or damaged leaves promptly to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
  • Pinch new growth tips in early spring to encourage denser branching
  • Avoid heavy pruning during winter dormancy to prevent stress to the plant
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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 mild oral and throat irritation

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Indoor ornamental foliage; ideal for desk, shelf, or small tabletop decoration