Schefflera delavayi, commonly known as the Umbrella Tree, is an evergreen shrub or small tree native to the understory of temperate forests and montane regions in Southeastern China and Northern Vietnam. It typically reaches a height of 8-12 feet (2.4-3.7 meters) and a width of 2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters). The plant is characterized by its glossy, palmately compound leaves that resemble an umbrella, hence its common name. The leaves are dark green and can provide a lush, tropical feel to gardens. Schefflera delavayi produces clusters of cream-colored flowers in the summer, which are small but can add a subtle charm to the plant’s overall appearance.

The Umbrella Tree is valued for its attractive foliage and its ability to thrive in shaded conditions, making it a suitable choice for woodland gardens, shaded borders, or as an understory plant in larger landscapes. It is also used as a houseplant due to its tolerance of low light. In cultivation, it requires minimal maintenance, preferring part shade to full shade and low water once established. It is adaptable to a range of soil types, provided they have medium drainage. While generally pest-free, it can occasionally suffer from scale insects or spider mites, especially when grown indoors.CC BY-SA 4.0