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schefflera varieties

Schefflera varieties are beloved by Kiwi gardeners and houseplant enthusiasts for their dramatic foliage, resilience, and easy care. Whether you prefer lush, glossy greens or vibrant splashes of cream and lime, the schefflera family offers a wide range of options to suit your indoor or outdoor space. This guide will introduce you to the most popular schefflera varieties available in New Zealand, their unique qualities, and how to choose the right schefflera for your home or garden.

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Schefflera actinophylla

The Schefflera actinophylla plant, commonly known as the Umbrella Tree or Umbrella Plant, is an evergreen tree that originates from rain forests. It features large and lush, bright green leaves that radiate outwards in an umbrella-like fashion. It typically grows to 8 m tall and 4 m wide, and can be trimmed as necessary. When grown indoors as a potted plant it is often contained to anywhere from 1.5 m tall to 3 m tall. Schefflera actinophylla is typically grown outdoors in warmer climates as a specimen or added to a mixed planting. It is also well suited to tropical gardens, planting around outdoor living areas, or maintaining in a container. NB: This Schefflera plant also has the synonymous name: Brassaia actinophylla.

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
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Schefflera arboricola variegated

The variegated Schefflera (Schefflera arboricola Variegated) is an evergreen shrub commonly grown as a houseplant due to its attractive and variegated foliage. It features glossy leaves that are variegated green and cream-yellow, with the leaflets arranged in a fan pattern. This variegated arboricola grows with a rounded habit to about 1 m tall and the same wide when grown indoors, but is usually contained with trimming. Outdoors it will grow to about 3 m tall and 2 m wide, and can be trimmed as necessary. Schefflera arboricola variegata is commonly grown as a potted plant either indoors or outdoors, added to tropical gardens, included in a mixed planting, or planted around outdoor living areas.

Suited to regions: Subtropical
Plant type: Indoor Plants
Height: 1.00 m
Spread: 1.00 m
Garden uses: Borders, Containers, Living areas, Parks, Paths & Steps, Pool areas, Specimen
Garden styles: Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern, Tropical
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Schefflera Green Goblin (Green Arboricola)

Schefflera Green Goblin, commonly known as the Green Arboricola, is an evergreen shrub commonly grown as a houseplant. The foliage is mid green...

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schefflera-arboricola-

Schefflera arboricola (Dwarf Umbrella Tree)

The Schefflera arboricola plant, commonly known as the Dwarf Umbrella Tree, is an evergreen shrub commonly grown as a houseplant. The foliage is mid...

From$26.93
Schefflera actinophylla

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Popular Schefflera Varieties for New Zealand Gardens

Schefflera arboricola (Dwarf Umbrella Tree)

The Schefflera arboricola (Dwarf Umbrella Tree) is a classic favourite thanks to its compact size and bushy nature. The glossy, umbrella-shaped leaves make it perfect for homes or offices, thriving in indirect bright light and requiring little maintenance. This is a popular choice for those seeking a fuss-free houseplant that adds lush greenery to any corner.

Schefflera arboricola variegated

If you're searching for a more colourful twist, Schefflera arboricola variegated showcases stunning yellow and cream-patterned foliage. The variegation adds brightness and visual interest to plant collections or shaded patios. Like other dwarf umbrella trees, this variety tolerates a range of light conditions and holds up well in New Zealand’s temperate climate.

Schefflera Green Goblin (Green Arboricola)

For those who prefer deeper tones, the Schefflera Green Goblin (Green Arboricola) features bold, rich green leaves and a robust, compact growth habit. It’s well-suited as a statement piece for contemporary homes, thriving in well-lit spots away from direct sun.

Schefflera Hong Kong

Schefflera Hong Kong is another standout among schefflera varieties. Known for its slender, glossy leaflets and more upright growth, this variety is perfect for those who want to create height and structure in their interior greenery. It’s also adaptable to indoor containers or shaded outdoor spots.

Schefflera actinophylla

For larger spaces or landscaping projects, Schefflera actinophylla, also known as the Queensland umbrella tree, offers a tropical touch with dramatic, broad leaf clusters. This variety can grow into a small tree in milder regions or serve as a commanding potted plant. If given enough warmth and moisture, Schefflera actinophylla’s striking presence becomes a true focal point.

How to Choose and Care for Schefflera Varieties

When selecting among schefflera varieties, consider the light available in your chosen spot and the ultimate size you want your plant to reach. Dwarf forms like Schefflera arboricola and its variegated relatives are perfect for apartments, offices, and pots, while larger species like Schefflera actinophylla handle patios or sheltered gardens.

Caring for schefflera varieties is generally straightforward: place them in bright, filtered light, water when the topsoil dries out, and feed occasionally during spring and summer. Most varieties are tolerant of varying humidity, making them ideal for the New Zealand home.

Explore Our Range of Schefflera Varieties

Discover the best schefflera varieties for your indoor oasis or outdoor retreat. From the decorative Schefflera arboricola variegated to the impressive Schefflera actinophylla, our curated collection has a schefflera to match every style and space. Browse our full range to find your next favourite plant.


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