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evergreen umbrella tree

The evergreen umbrella tree is a striking, low-maintenance plant that brings a touch of the tropics to New Zealand gardens and interiors. Loved for its lush, glossy foliage and graceful shape, it thrives in a variety of environments and is an excellent choice for those seeking a bold yet unfussy statement plant. Whether you're designing a backyard retreat or looking for an eye-catching indoor specimen, the evergreen umbrella tree is a versatile addition that offers year-round greenery.

Cyperus ustulatus growing in water.

Cyperus ustulatus (Giant Umbrella Sedge)

Cyperus ustulatus, commonly known as the Giant Umbrella Sedge, is a large and robust NZ native grass. It grows as a clump and produces dark green leaves that have minute, sharp teeth along the margins. The foliage is complemented with green flowers in summer, which age to brown as it grows to 1.5 metres high and the same width.

From $17.25

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Grasses
Height: 1.50 m
Spread: 1.50 m
Flowering time: Summer
Tolerances: Coastal, Hardy, Wet, Wind
Garden uses: Banks, Ponds, Pool areas
Garden styles: Alpine, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern, Native, Riparian
schefflera-actinophylla--1

Schefflera actinophylla

Schefflera actinophylla (Umbrella Tree) is a striking evergreen tree admired for its large glossy leaves that radiate like the spokes of an umbrella. Its lush tropical appearance makes it a popular feature tree for warm New Zealand gardens and a dramatic indoor specimen when young.

From $199.95

Suited to regions: Subtropical
Plant type: Shrubs
Height: 8.00 m
Spread: 4.00 m
Flowering time: Summer
Garden uses: Containers, Parks, Pool areas, Screening, Specimen
Garden styles: Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern, Tropical
pinus-pinea-1
Pinus pinea

Pinus pinea (Pine Nut) is a distinctive evergreen conifer admired for its broad umbrella shaped canopy, long green needles, and edible pine nuts...

From$270.40
acacia-howittii-
Acacia howittii (Sticky Wattle)

Acacia howittii, commonly known as Sticky Wattle, is an attractive evergreen tree valued for its graceful weeping habit, fine green foliage, and...

From$349.95
podocarpus-gracilior-
Podocarpus gracilior (African Fern Pine)

Podocarpus gracilior (Fern Pine) is an elegant evergreen tree valued for its fine textured foliage, graceful form, and versatility in the landscape...

From$270.40
fuscospora-solandri-
Fuscospora solandri

Fuscospora solandri (Black Beech) is a distinctive New Zealand native evergreen tree valued for its fine foliage, dense canopy, and strong natural...

From$270.40
Hoheria 'Alba Variegata' variegated foliage with white flowers.
Hoheria populnea 'Alba Variegata'

Hoheria populnea 'Alba Variegata' is a striking NZ native tree prized for its distinctive foliage and seasonal displays. This evergreen variety...

From$494.05
podocarpus-henkelii-1
Podocarpus henkelii (Yellowwood)

Podocarpus henkelii (Henkel Yellowwood) is an elegant evergreen tree admired for its graceful weeping foliage, stately form, and year round appeal...

From$270.40
fuscospora-cliffortioides-4
Fuscospora cliffortioides

Fuscospora cliffortioides (Mountain Beech) is a distinctive New Zealand native evergreen tree valued for its fine foliage, natural form, and strong...

From$270.40
daphniphyllum-macropodum-3
Daphniphyllum macropodum

Daphniphyllum macropodum is an impressive evergreen shrub or small tree grown for its lush, glossy green foliage and attractive architectural form...

From$366.25
fraxinus-griffithii-3
Fraxinus griffithii

Fraxinus griffithii (Evergreen Ash) is a fast growing evergreen tree valued for its glossy foliage and neat upright form. It is well suited to New...

From$35.81
Metrosideros excelsa (Pohutukawa) specimen tree with masses of red flowers in a coastal location.
Metrosideros excelsa (Pōhutukawa)

Metrosideros excelsa, commonly known as Pōhutukawa or the New Zealand Christmas Tree, is a coastal evergreen renowned for its brilliant red flowers...

From$30.29
Magnolia grandiflora 'Little Gem' white flower.
Magnolia grandiflora 'Little Gem'

Magnolia grandiflora ‘Little Gem’ is a compact, evergreen tree prized for its glossy green leaves and large, fragrant white flowers. Growing to...

From$270.40
eucryphia-cordifolia--1
Eucryphia cordifolia

Eucryphia cordifolia (Ulmo) is a magnificent evergreen tree renowned for its glossy foliage and masses of fragrant white flowers that appear from...

From$408.85
Michelia 'Inspiration' white flowers and dark green foliage.
Michelia 'Inspiration'

Michelia 'Inspiration' is a compact evergreen tree admired for its glossy dark green foliage and fragrant white flowers that bloom from late winter...

From$34.43
Michelia yunnanensis white flowers and glossy, green foliage.
Michelia yunnanensis

Michelia yunnanensis is a compact, evergreen tree renowned for its glossy, green leaves and highly fragrant, white flowers, which bloom from late...

From$270.40
A large and showy Quercus ilex specimen tree in a field.
Quercus ilex

Quercus ilex, commonly known as the Holm Oak or Evergreen Oak, is an evergreen tree with lush foliage. The dark green leaves are glossy and...

From$279.95
Alnus jorullensis lush green foliage.
Alnus jorullensis

Alnus jorullensis (Evergreen Alder, Mexican Alder) is a fast growing and versatile tree that performs superbly in many New Zealand landscapes. It is...

From$165.51
Dacrydium cupressinum (Rimu) tree juvenile foliage.
Dacrydium cupressinum (Rimu Tree)

Dacrydium cupressinum, commonly known as Rimu or Red Pine, is an iconic and slow-growing tree. The juvenile form features drooping branches densely...

From$99.29
azara-microphylla-2
Azara microphylla

Azara microphylla (Vanilla Tree) is a graceful evergreen tree admired for its small glossy leaves and wonderfully fragrant yellow flowers. In spring...

From$387.55
Michelia 'Paton Pink' flowers on a stem.
Michelia 'Paton Pink'

Michelia 'Paton Pink' is a stunning evergreen tree known for its profusion of fragrant, blush pink flowers in early spring. The blossoms appear among...

From$387.55
A Michelia 'Velvet and Cream' tree with masses of cream-white flowers amidst glossy green foliage.
Michelia 'Velvet and Cream'

Michelia 'Velvet and Cream' is a compact, evergreen tree admired for its glossy, dark green foliage and fragrant, creamy white flowers that bloom...

From$34.43
Michelia 'Fairy White' white flowers with lush, green foliage.
Michelia 'Fairy White'

Michelia 'Fairy White' is a compact evergreen tree admired for its glossy dark green foliage and fragrant pure white flowers that bloom from late...

From$34.43
Beilschmiedia tarairi (Taraire) trees growing in a modern garden.
Beilschmiedia tarairi (Taraire)

Beilschmiedia tarairi, commonly known as the Taraire tree, is a unique, NZ native tree. Its prominent feature is the masses of olive-like, purple...

From$270.40
magnolia-russet-
Magnolia grandiflora 'Russet'

Magnolia grandiflora 'Russet' is a striking evergreen magnolia valued for its glossy dark green leaves with rich russet brown undersides and large...

From$387.55
ulmus-lobel-
Ulmus 'Lobel' (Dutch Elm Tree)

Ulmus 'Lobel' is a refined deciduous elm valued for its narrow upright form, dense green foliage, and excellent suitability as an avenue or specimen...

From$557.95
Laurus nobilis foliage and flowers.
Laurus nobilis

Laurus nobilis, commonly known as Sweet Bay Tree or Bay Laurel, is a versatile evergreen tree prized for its aromatic leaves and classic form. It...

From$34.43
Phyllocladus trichomanoides lush green foliage.
Phyllocladus trichomanoides (Celery Pine)

Phyllocladus trichomanoides, commonly called Celery Pine, is a striking New Zealand native tree valued for its unique, celery like foliage and tall...

From$515.35
magnolia-grandiflora-kay-parris-
Magnolia 'Kay Parris'

Magnolia 'Kay Parris' is an elegant evergreen tree prized for its glossy foliage, compact growth habit, and impressive creamy white flowers. The...

From$387.55
Quercus laurina specimen tree with lush, green foliage.
Quercus laurina

Quercus laurina is a magnificent evergreen oak native to Central America, admired for its stately form and year round greenery. Its glossy, lance...

From$129.95
olive-j2-
Olive 'J2'

Olive 'J2' is a productive olive variety valued for its reliable cropping, attractive silver green foliage, and suitability to New Zealand growing...

From$393.94
Liriodendron tulipifera 'Fastigiata' trees with yellow foliage in autumn.
Liriodendron tulipifera 'Fastigiata' (Tulip Tree)

Liriodendron tulipifera fastigiata, also known as the Upright Tulip Tree, is a stunning deciduous tree admired for its narrow, columnar form. It...

From$515.35
Cyperus ustulatus (Giant Umbrella Sedge)

Did you find what you are looking for?

You might be interested in exploring related Latin Names - Acacia, Cyperus, and Daphniphyllum, or related Categories - Grasses, Pine Nuts, and Evergreen Shrubs.

Search evergreen umbrella tree

What Is an Evergreen Umbrella Tree?

The evergreen umbrella tree refers most commonly to Schefflera actinophylla, also known as the Queensland Umbrella Tree. This fast-growing shrub or small tree is celebrated for its impressive canopy of radiating leaflets—resembling the ribs of an umbrella—that create a lush, tropical appearance. Mature plants may develop dramatic clusters of red flowers, adding bursts of colour during the warmer months. With evergreen leaves, the umbrella tree keeps its vibrant foliage throughout the year, making it a reliable source of structure and beauty in your outdoor or indoor space.

Growing and Caring for Evergreen Umbrella Tree in New Zealand

Caring for the evergreen umbrella tree is straightforward, making it a favourite for both novice and experienced gardeners. It prefers well-drained soil, regular watering, and a sheltered spot with bright, indirect light. The plant tolerates partial shade and adapts well to both garden beds and large containers, giving you plenty of options for placement. For indoor locations, consider Schefflera arboricola (Dwarf Umbrella Tree), which is well-suited to homes and offices thanks to its compact growth and adaptability to lower light.

Pruning your evergreen umbrella tree as needed helps encourage dense, bushy growth. It’s also worth noting that Schefflera actinophylla and similar species can become quite large outdoors but are easily managed indoors or in pots. Regularly wiping the leaves maintains their shine and prevents pest buildup. In frost-prone areas, provide protection during winter or consider moving container-grown plants inside.

Landscape and Design Uses

In landscaping, the evergreen umbrella tree is highly versatile. Its upright form and umbrella-like leaves make it an ideal feature plant or backdrop for smaller shrubs and flowering perennials. Planted en masse, it can also create a beautiful, informal privacy screen. For a harmonious design, pair with other lush foliage plants such as Cyperus papyrus (Umbrella Papyrus) or Cyperus ustulatus (Giant Umbrella Sedge), which share similar moisture and sun preferences. If you’re interested in adding vivid floral impact in the same tropical style, the Delonix regia (Flamboyan Tree) offers spectacular seasonal blooms.

Why Choose Evergreen Umbrella Tree?

Choosing the evergreen umbrella tree for your garden or home means enjoying a timeless look with minimal fuss. Its resilience, year-round foliage, and adaptability make it one of the best plants for those wanting vibrant greenery without constant maintenance. Explore our range of Schefflera actinophylla and related species to find the perfect variety for your gardening project. With the right care, the evergreen umbrella tree will reward you with tropical charm for years to come.

Contact us

Whether you need assistance finding the plant you’re looking for or you simply want to know more about who we are and what we do, we invite you to get in touch with us today. A member of The Plant Company team will get back in touch as soon as possible.

Illustration of plant leaves.
There’s more to explore beyond Rhododendron 'Black Magic' and Chamaemelum nobile (Chamomile) — like the subtle beauty of Feijoa 'Pounamu', Magnolia 'Charles Raffill', and Philodendron 'Atom'.
–The Plant Company

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