How to identify Schefflera (Schefflera)

How to identify Schefflera (Schefflera)

Schefflera is distinct for its attractive foliage with palmate leaves typically grouped into sets of seven leaflets. These leaflets are bright green and have a glossy appearance, contributing to its popularity as an ornamental houseplant. The plant stretches upwards to a considerable height, often reaching up to 4 feet (1.2 meters) or more under indoor cultivation. It rarely blooms in home settings but can produce racemes of dull red flowers. Despite its visual similarity to its relative, schefflera can be differentiated by the intricate details of its leaf structure and growth habit.

Lifespan: Perennial

Leaf Type: Evergreen

Quickly Identify Schefflera

Palmate leaves with 7 leaflets give an umbrella-like appearance.

Stem features clasping leaf stalk aiding in identification.

Bright green glossy leaflets with pinnate vein pattern.

Small greenish-white star-shaped flowers in dense clusters.

Can reach up to 4 feet (1.2 meters) in height.

Detailed Traits of Schefflera

Leaf Features

Schefflera features palmately divided leaves that consist of 8 smooth-margined leaflets. Each leaflet is typically oblong to elliptical, measuring between 4 to 12 inches (10 to 30 cm) long and 2 to 5 inches (5 to 13 cm) wide. The leaflets are a vibrant green, with a glossy texture. They exhibit a pinnate vein pattern with a prominent central vein and secondary veins that fan outwards. The arrangement and structure of these leaflets give the plant an umbrella-like appearance.

Learn About the Leaf Glossary

Flower Features

The flowers of schefflera are small and inconspicuous, typically grouped in dense clusters. Each blossom is usually greenish-white or light yellow in color, with a star-like shape formed by five petals. These flowers are approximately 0.1 inch (2-3 mm) in diameter and lack a strong fragrance. Blooming periods can vary, but they are infrequent and sporadic, especially in houseplant conditions. Despite their modest appearance, these small flowers play a crucial role in the plant's reproductive cycle.

Learn About the Flower Glossary

Stem Features

The stem of schefflera is typically woody and can range in color from light gray to green. It features a smooth texture with occasional lenticels. The stem thickness can vary but is generally around 0.5 to 1 inch (1.3 to 2.5 cm) in diameter. Branching is often irregular, and the base of the leaf stalk clasps the stem securely. This clasping feature is distinctive and aids in identification. The stem can grow quite tall, supporting multiple leaves and branches.

Learn About the Stem Glossary

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