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Dwarf Umbrella Tree (Schefflera arboricola) growing in South Florida
FLEPPC FLEPPC Category IIGrade Florida

Dwarf Umbrella Tree — South Florida Plant Guide

Schefflera arboricola

Family: Araliaceae · Shrub

Legal status pending editorial verification. Confirm with your county before installation.

Landscape Uses

foundation plantingspecimenaccentcontainershade garden

Style Tags

tropicalmodernresortcontemporary

South Florida Growing Guide

Light Requirements

Full SunPartial SunShade

Water Requirements

Low3/10

Once established (12–18 months), Dwarf Umbrella Tree is drought-tolerant and requires minimal supplemental irrigation in South Florida.

Moderate water needs. Reasonably drought tolerant once established. Water 2x per week during establishment. After establishment, 1-2x per week in dry season. Tolerates brief flooding better than most shrubs.

Soil and Fertilization

sandyloamfilllimestone

Fertilizer: Balanced slow-release shrub fertilizer 8-2-12 or similar

Schedule: February and August. Balanced slow-release fertilizer.

Salt Tolerance

Moderate (5/10) — some protection from direct spray recommended
Mature Height
410 ft
Mature Width
38 ft
Growth Rate
moderate
Water Demand
3/10
Florida Grade
Florida
Installed Cost
$
USDA Zones
9b, 10a, 10b, 11
FLEPPC Status
FLEPPC Category II
Iguana Rating
3/10

Where to Buy in South Florida

Find Dwarf Umbrella Tree at South Florida nurseries — check availability and pricing at nurseries near you.

Frequently Asked Questions

How fast does Dwarf Umbrella Tree grow in South Florida?

Dwarf Umbrella Tree has a moderate growth rate. In South Florida's warm, humid climate it typically establishes quickly with proper watering and fertilization.

Is Dwarf Umbrella Tree safe for pets?

Dwarf Umbrella Tree is not safe for pets. Toxic to dogs and cats — causes vomiting and other GI symptoms if foliage or berries are ingested. ASPCA confirmed toxic. Advise all pet-owning clients before installation.

How much water does Dwarf Umbrella Tree need in South Florida?

Low water needs (3/10). Once established (12–18 months), Dwarf Umbrella Tree is drought-tolerant and requires minimal supplemental irrigation in South Florida.

Can Dwarf Umbrella Tree tolerate salt air in South Florida?

Dwarf Umbrella Tree has moderate salt tolerance (5/10). It can handle some coastal exposure but should be protected from direct ocean spray.

Is Dwarf Umbrella Tree available in Miami-Dade County?

In Miami-Dade County, Dwarf Umbrella Tree is classified as: allowed. Allowed.

County Availability in South Florida

Miami-Dade County

Allowed

Allowed. FLEPPC Category II invasive — escapes into natural areas via bird-dispersed seeds.

✓ Coastal OK

USDA Zone 10a–11. Tropical climate, year-round warmth and humidity.

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Broward County

Allowed

Allowed. FLEPPC Category II — avoid planting adjacent to Broward County natural areas and preserve buffers.

✓ Coastal OK

USDA Zone 10a–10b. Subtropical with warm winters and wet/dry seasons.

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Palm Beach County

Allowed

Allowed. FLEPPC Category II invasive status — avoid natural area adjacency.

✓ Coastal OK

USDA Zone 9b–10b. Transitional zone with occasional winter cold in north.

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Collier County

Allowed

Allowed. FLEPPC Category II — exercise caution near Collier County's extensive conservation lands and Fakahatchee Strand Preserve.

✓ Coastal OK

USDA Zone 10a–10b. Subtropical Gulf Coast with seasonal flooding.

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Monroe County

Allowed

Allowed. FLEPPC Category II — critical concern in Monroe County given proximity of all plantings to Keys' sensitive native ecosystems.

USDA Zone 11. Tropical maritime, highest salt exposure of all 5 counties.

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Full ordinance references and permit requirements available to Professional subscribers. Always verify current county requirements before installation.

Need a Spec Sheet?

Export a client-ready PDF with Florida Grade specs, county legal status, maintenance schedule, and failure risks. Available to Professional subscribers.

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Ask about Dwarf Umbrella Tree

Get answers grounded in UF/IFAS research and South Florida landscape data.