Heptapleurum

Family. Araliaceae.

Origin. Taiwan.

Description. Heptapleurum is an evergreen shrub or small tree that grows in its native tropical climate up to 6 - 8 m tall. The stem is erect, tree-like. The leaves are compound, up to 15 cm in diameter, dark green, glossy. Each leaf has 7-9 obovate or oblong segments 6-8 cm long, arranged in a circle. Tiny red flowers are collected in panicles and bloom in the summer. After flowering, round orange drupes about 6 mm in diameter are formed, which turn black when ripe. In appearance, the plant resembles the well-known schefflera, but unlike it, with age it forms a tree-like trunk. It grows very quickly.

Height. Up to 2 m indoors, in a natural environment 6 - 8 m.

Home care

Containment temperature

During the warmer months, normal room temperature will do. In winter, the temperature should not fall below 16 ° C.

Reproduction

By seeds in spring or cuttings in early summer, by air layering.

Lighting

It is better to place plants in a brightly lit place where they will receive reflected light for 3 to 4 hours a day. Avoid direct sunlight.

Flowering time

Rarely blooms indoors.

Diseases and pests

There are no serious insect or disease problems when properly maintained. Leaves fall when there is a sudden change in air temperature or watering regime. When over-watered, the tips of the leaves dry out.  Scale insects, aphids, thrips and spider mites may appear in dry conditions.

How to care

In summer, it can be kept outside in places protected from wind and direct sun. You can maintain a compact, neat shape of the bushes by pruning. It easily tolerates even strong pruning and will look even more lush soon after. Remove yellowed leaves as soon as they appear.

Transplantation

Every spring. 

Substrate

Grow in peaty, well-drained soil. Provide support for long, slender stems.

Feeding

During the growing season, 2 times a month with complex liquid fertilizers. 

Air humidity

To increase humidity, mist the foliage or place the pot on a tray of damp pebbles.

Irrigation of heptapleurum

Water regularly but sparingly during the growing season. Avoid overwatering and stagnation of water. It's best to water all the soil very well and then let it become almost dry before watering again. Reduce the frequency of watering from autumn to late winter.