queensland umbrella tree

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

The Queensland umbrella tree (Schefflera actinophylla) is an evergreen stunner, celebrated in New Zealand gardens and homes for its dramatic, glossy foliage and easy-care nature. Native to the lush rainforests of Australia, this impressive plant thrives as both a feature tree outdoors in frost-free climates or a showy, low-maintenance indoor plant. With its umbrella-like whorls of deep green leaves and upright habit, the Queensland umbrella tree brings an instant tropical vibe and architectural statement wherever it's placed.

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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Features of the Queensland Umbrella Tree

Schefflera actinophylla gets its name from the unique way its palmate leaves radiate out from a central stem, forming a shape reminiscent of an opened umbrella. Outdoors, the Queensland umbrella tree can reach impressive heights—up to 10 metres in ideal conditions—while indoor specimens generally remain much smaller and more manageable. In summer, mature trees may display spectacular spikes of red flowers, a favourite of native birds and pollinators.

Commonly grown for its bold appearance and tolerance of a range of conditions, the Queensland umbrella tree is a popular choice for anyone looking to introduce statement greenery to their space. It prefers bright, indirect light indoors or a sheltered spot outside, and adapts well to regular trimming if you wish to control its size.

Growing and Caring for Your Queensland Umbrella Tree

The Queensland umbrella tree is loved by both beginners and experienced gardeners due to its robust nature. It’s best grown in free-draining soil and regular watering is key, especially in the warmer months. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings to avoid root rot. Feed with a general-purpose liquid fertiliser during the growing season to encourage lush leaf growth.

If you’re looking to enrich your indoor plant collection, the Queensland umbrella tree is a perfect companion to other Schefflera varieties like the Schefflera arboricola (Dwarf Umbrella Tree), Schefflera Green Goblin (Green Arboricola), Schefflera arboricola variegated, or the elegant Schefflera Hong Kong. For outdoor plantings, consider complementing the Queensland umbrella tree with native options like Schefflera digitata (Seven Finger).

Landscape and Indoor Uses

Whether you want dense greenery in your garden, a lush indoor statement plant, or a backdrop for flowering shrubs, the Queensland umbrella tree fits the bill. In warmer regions, it’s a striking addition to subtropical or native landscapes and provides excellent shade for underplanting with foliage contrasts such as Ilex Sky Pencil, Bauera Plum Duff (Rose Heath), Eriostemon Flower Girl, or Ixora White Malay.

If indoor styling is your goal, pair your Queensland umbrella tree with light-leaved options like Pittosporum Moonlight for a modern, layered look. The Queensland umbrella tree’s adaptability and minimal fuss make it a favourite for homes, offices, and outdoor retreats across New Zealand.

Ready to elevate your plant game? Explore our range of Schefflera and companion plants to transform your green space with a touch of the tropics.

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.