Basic identification
Common name: Australian Umbrella Tree
Scientific name: Schefflera actinophylla
Family: Araliaceae
Plant type: Evergreen tree
Origin: Northern Australia, New Guinea
Life cycle: Perennial
Growth & size
Height:
8–15 m typical
Up to ~20 m in ideal conditions
Width / canopy spread: 6–10 m
Growth rate: Fast
Form: Upright tree, spreading canopy
Climate & hardiness
Climate zones: Tropical, Subtropical, Warm temperate
Frost tolerance: Low (damaged below ~0 °C)
Heat tolerance: High
Drought tolerance: Moderate once established
Wind tolerance: Moderate
Light requirements
Sun:
Full sun
Part shade
Best flowering occurs in full sun
Soil & water
Soil type:
Loam
Sandy loam
Clay loam (well-drained)
Soil pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (≈ 5.5–7.0)
Drainage: Well-drained preferred
Water needs:
Moderate
Regular watering while establishing
Functions (Permaculture-relevant)
Shade provider 🌳
Ornamental / feature tree
Habitat tree (birds, insects)
Nectar source (flowers attract birds, bees, bats)
Edibility & uses
Edible parts: None
Medicinal uses: None commonly used
Other uses:
Landscape feature
Indoor plant when young (non-permaculture context)
⚠️ Note: Sap and leaves can be irritating or toxic if ingested (humans & pets).
Flowering & reproduction
Flower colour: Red
Flowering time: Late spring – summer
Pollinators: Birds, bees, insects, bats
Fruit: Small red to purple drupes (ornamental only)
Propagation:
Seed
Cuttings
Maintenance
Pruning:
Responds well to pruning
Often pruned for size control
Root behaviour:
Vigorous
Can be invasive near pipes or foundations
Maintenance level: Medium
Ecological notes
Invasiveness:
Can be invasive outside native range (e.g. Hawaii, Florida)
Monitor self-seeding
Wildlife value: High (especially nectar-feeding birds)
Companion & system notes (optional Permapeople fields)
Good for:
Upper canopy / emergent layer
Creating microclimates
Avoid planting near:
Buildings
Underground services