Umbrella Tree

Common Name: Umbrella Tree, Octopus Tree, Australian Ivy - Palm, Queensland, Ivy Palm, Brassaia

Scientific Name: Schefflera actinophylla

Family: Araliaceae

Genus: Schefflera

General Facts:

• It can grow up to 15 meter in height.
• It is capable of clasping its roots around the trees, acting like strangling figs.
• It is considered as weed in some areas like Florida and Hawaii. It is because its roots can dominate the surrounding soil.
• Its fruits are fleshy drupes, purple, containing up to eight seeds.
• Its fruits are eaten by many birds and animals including certain types of kangaroos, pademelons, and flying foxes.
• Its flowers produce a large amount of nectar which attracts honey-eating birds.