Houseplant
Umbrella Tree
Schefflera actinophylla
Monrovia® varieties
Varieties We Carry
StandardSchefflera actinophyllaAmateSchefflera actinophyllaStandardScheffleraMonrovia
Sizes & Pricing
1 galFrom$7.95
#2MonroviaFrom$74.95
7 galFrom$140.00
10 galFrom$165.00
Fresh this week. Last restocked Jun 25.
LightFull Sun, Part Sun, Part Shade
WaterModerate
Mature size25-40 feet × 15-25 feet
About Umbrella Tree
Umbrella Tree (Schefflera actinophylla) is a fast-growing tropical tree with bold, glossy palmate leaves producing dramatic red flower spikes in summer. It is zone 9b hardy in NE Florida but is classified as a Category I invasive species by FLEPPC — it should not be planted near natural areas. Where grown, keep it contained and remove seedlings promptly. Starting at $7.95.
Plant details
- Bloom Season
- Summer
- Flower Color
- Red
- Growth Rate
- Fast
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Soil
- Loam, Sandy, Well-drained
Best planting months
Recommended forZone 9b · St. Augustine, FL
J
F
M
A
M
JNow
J
A
S
O
N
D
This monthGood windowOther months
Seasonal care
Good planting window.
Bloom season. Can be planted with extra attention to watering.
Ideal planting window.
Retains foliage through winter.
Care essentials
Light
Adaptable to full sun, part sun, or part shade in NE Florida's zone 9b — in full sun it flowers profusely with dramatic terminal red-and-purple clusters; part shade produces lusher foliage. Note: Schefflera actinophylla is classified as INVASIVE in Central and South Florida by UF/IFAS and FLEPPC Category I — do not plant in naturalized or near-preserve areas.
Water
Water regularly after planting to establish; once established it is moderately drought-tolerant in NE Florida. Avoid overwatering or poorly drained sites, which can promote root rot. During winter cold fronts (below 32°F), protect with frost cloth or move container-grown specimens indoors — plants recover from light frost but may defoliate.
Soil & Fertilizer
Grows in a range of soils including loam and sandy well-drained soils; amend with compost at planting. Fertilize with a balanced slow-release fertilizer in spring and summer during active growth. Be advised this species is invasive — seeds are spread by birds and seedlings colonize natural areas. Consider dwarf schefflera (S. arboricola) as a non-invasive alternative.
Similar needs
Ageratum
Shares 5 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, loam, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
From $6.95Same conditions
Alyssum
Shares 5 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, loam, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
From $6.95Same conditions
Amethyst Flower
Shares 5 of the same needs: shade, moderate water, loam, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
From $7.95Same conditions
Aster
Shares 5 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, loam, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
From $7.95Same conditions
Atamasco Lily
Shares 5 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, loam, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
From $7.95Same conditions
Belize Sage
Shares 5 of the same needs: shade, moderate water, loam, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
From $9.95Same conditions
You may also like
HouseplantPeace Lily
Part Shade, Full ShadeModerate1-4 feet × 1-3 feet
$5.95View
HouseplantArrowhead Plant
Part Shade, Full ShadeModerate3-6 feet (container/indoor); climbing to 30+ feet if supported outdoors in frost-free areas × 3-6+ feet
$7.95View
HouseplantIndian Laurel Fig
Full Sun, Part SunModerate25-40 feet × 25-40 feet
$14.95View
Common questions
Is Umbrella Tree a good plant for St. Augustine?
Umbrella Tree is a houseplant for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, reaching 25-40 feet × 15-25 feet.
Care information verified from
Last reviewed February 2026. Our care guidance comes from trusted horticulture sources and decades of helping St. Augustine gardeners. Conditions here can vary dramatically from one area to the next, so come ask us and we'll tailor it to your yard.