large leaf schefflera

Name: The Plant Company
Address: 284 Meeanee Road, Meeanee, Napier, 4112, New Zealand
Telephone: 0800 843 752
Price range: Contact Us
Rating: 4.8/5

Large leaf Schefflera, also known as Schefflera actinophylla or the Umbrella Tree, is a striking indoor or garden plant admired for its bold, glossy foliage and effortless beauty. Native to the lush rainforests of Australia and New Guinea, the large leaf Schefflera stands out with its impressive, hand-shaped leaves that can measure up to 50cm long. Each leaf is composed of 7–16 leaflets radiating from a central stem, creating a dramatic, tropical canopy effect. Its easy-care nature, rapid growth, and architectural charm make it a favourite among New Zealand gardeners and houseplant enthusiasts seeking a statement piece for homes or office spaces.

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.

Buy Schefflera actinophylla

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

More species and varieties of Schefflera

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Why Choose Large Leaf Schefflera (Schefflera actinophylla)?

If you’re looking for a fast-growing plant with lush, large foliage, the large leaf Schefflera delivers. In ideal indoor conditions, this plant can reach heights of 2–3 metres, instantly transforming dull corners into vibrant green sanctuaries. Outdoors in frost-free zones, it can mature into a small tree with an umbrella-shaped canopy. Its adaptability allows it to thrive in bright, indirect light indoors or semi-shaded outdoor spots.

Large leaf Schefflera is also celebrated for its resilience. It tolerates occasional neglect, requires minimal pruning, and is resistant to most common houseplant pests. Its bold presence pairs beautifully with smaller varieties such as Schefflera arboricola (Dwarf Umbrella Tree), or for a unique twist, try the subtly variegated Schefflera arboricola variegated or the deep green Schefflera Green Goblin (Green Arboricola).

Indoor and Outdoor Uses for Large Leaf Schefflera

The large leaf Schefflera is a versatile plant that suits many settings. Indoors, its size and stature make it ideal for living rooms, offices, and light-filled halls. Outdoors, it adds lush texture to subtropical or sheltered gardens, and can serve as a striking backdrop for colourful shrubs like Camellia Softly or Rhododendron Chrysomanicum. For a more botanical look, plant alongside New Zealand natives such as Schefflera digitata (Seven Finger).

In landscaping, Schefflera actinophylla’s broad leaves create shade and texture, making it a superb choice for patios or garden borders. If your space is smaller, consider the compact Schefflera Hong Kong.

Tips for Growing and Caring for Large Leaf Schefflera

Large leaf Schefflera prefers bright, indirect light but will tolerate some shade. Allow the top layer of soil to dry out between waterings, and feed with a balanced liquid fertiliser during the growing season to encourage lush new leaves. Repot every couple of years to refresh the soil and give roots room to grow.

Keep the foliage clean by occasionally wiping the leaves, and rotate the plant so it grows evenly. Prune back any wayward stems in late winter to maintain your desired shape.

Discover More Foliage Plants

Explore our full range of Schefflera family members, including Schefflera arboricola (Dwarf Umbrella Tree), Schefflera Green Goblin (Green Arboricola), Schefflera arboricola variegated, and Schefflera Hong Kong. For more inspiration, browse unique shrubs such as Leptospermum Gaiety Girl', Brunia Silver Moons, or low-maintenance choices like Plectranthus zuluensis (Plectranthus Swedish Ivy).

Bring the lush, tropical flair of large leaf Schefflera to your home or garden and enjoy the effortless impact only a plant of this stature can provide.

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.