The plant commonly known as the Spider Tree, Umbrella Tree, or Octopus Tree is a popular houseplant belonging to the genus Schefflera. Valued for its unique foliage and forgiving nature, it is a frequent choice for indoor spaces. Caring for this plant is straightforward, requiring consistent attention to its specific needs for light, water, and pruning.
What Defines the Spider Tree
The Spider Tree is primarily one of two species: the larger Schefflera actinophylla or the more compact Schefflera arboricola. Both species are native to the tropical and subtropical regions of Australia, Southeast Asia, and New Guinea. Their defining characteristic is the palmately compound leaf structure, where leaflets radiate outward from a central stalk, resembling the spokes of an umbrella or the legs of a spider.
Species Differences
The larger S. actinophylla, sometimes called the Queensland Umbrella Tree, features glossy leaflets that can grow up to 12 inches long, typically arranged in groups of seven to sixteen. Indoors, S. actinophylla can reach heights of ten feet or more. In contrast, the Dwarf Umbrella Tree, S. arboricola, has smaller, denser leaflets, usually seven to nine per leaf, which gives the plant a much bushier appearance. While the standard form is deep green, cultivars of the dwarf variety often display attractive variegation, featuring creamy white or gold patterns on the foliage. S. arboricola is more easily maintained between four and six feet.
Optimal Environmental Conditions
The Spider Tree thrives in environments that mimic its tropical origins, favoring bright conditions without direct, intense sun exposure. Placing the plant near an east or west-facing window is ideal, providing several hours of bright, indirect light. Insufficient light can cause the plant to become “leggy” with sparse foliage, while direct afternoon sun can lead to leaf scorching and brown spots.
The plant prefers typical room temperatures, ideally between 60°F and 75°F. Exposure to cold drafts from windows or air conditioning vents, especially temperatures below 55°F, can cause the plant to stress and drop its leaves.
Humidity Needs
This plant appreciates ambient humidity, though it adapts well to average indoor levels. To increase humidity, particularly in dry winter months, owners can place the pot on a pebble tray filled with water, ensuring the pot bottom does not sit directly in the water. Grouping the plant with other houseplants also creates a localized microclimate.
Routine Watering and Feeding
Proper watering technique is important for the health of the Spider Tree, as it is susceptible to root rot from overwatering. The “soak and dry” method involves allowing the top inch or two of the soil to dry out completely before watering thoroughly. Ensure the water drains fully from the pot’s drainage holes, preventing the roots from sitting in stagnant water. Watering frequency should be reduced significantly during the cooler, dormant winter months.
The plant requires a well-draining potting mix, typically a blend of peat moss, perlite, and loamy soil, which prevents compaction and facilitates aeration. Repotting is generally necessary every two to three years or when the plant becomes visibly root-bound, indicated by roots circling the inside of the pot or emerging from the drainage holes.
Fertilization
During the active growing season (spring through fall), the Spider Tree benefits from regular fertilization. Applying a balanced, water-soluble liquid fertilizer once a month supports robust leaf and stem development. Fertilization should be discontinued entirely during the winter when the plant is not actively producing new growth.
Addressing Pests and Maintenance
The Spider Tree is occasionally targeted by common houseplant pests, including spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. Spider mites are often first noticed by fine webbing on the leaves, while mealybugs appear as small, cottony masses in the leaf axils. Scale insects manifest as small, raised brown bumps on the stems and leaves.
For light infestations, wiping the foliage with a cloth dampened with insecticidal soap or a diluted neem oil solution can effectively manage the problem. Consistent inspection of the plant’s leaves, particularly the undersides, helps catch pest issues before they become severe. Pest outbreaks often indicate the plant is under environmental stress, such as incorrect watering or light levels.
Pruning and Leaf Drop
Pruning is an important part of maintaining the plant’s shape and size, especially for the larger S. actinophylla. Stems can be cut back to just above a leaf node to control height or to encourage a bushier growth habit, as pruning stimulates new growth points. Leaf drop is a common reaction to sudden environmental changes, most often cold drafts, moving the plant, or incorrect watering habits.