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Description
Schefflera Delavayi is a beautiful plant known for its large, glossy, and deeply divided leaves. Also known as Himalayan Schefflera or Delavay Schefflera, it is native to the Himalayan region of China and can grow up to 10 feet tall. It belongs to the Araliaceae family and is a popular ornamental plant in gardens and homes around the world.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Araliaceae |
| Genus | Schefflera |
Appearance
Schefflera Delavayi has large, glossy, and deeply divided leaves that can grow up to 12 inches long. The leaves have 7-9 leaflets that are 2-4 inches long and 1-2 inches wide. The plant has a woody stem and can grow up to 10 feet tall in its natural habitat, but it can be kept smaller with proper pruning.
Care Guide
Schefflera Delavayi is a relatively easy plant to care for, but it does have some specific requirements:Water: Schefflera Delavayi prefers consistently moist soil, but it should not be waterlogged. Water the plant thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.Fertilization: Fertilize Schefflera Delavayi every 2-3 months with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer).Soil: Schefflera Delavayi prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A mix of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite works well.Sunlight: Schefflera Delavayi prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.Hardiness Zones: Schefflera Delavayi is hardy in USDA zones 7-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Schefflera Delavayi is relatively pest and disease resistant, but it can be affected by spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also be affected by root rot if it is overwatered or planted in poorly draining soil.
Habitat
Schefflera Delavayi is native to the Himalayan region of China, where it grows in forests and on mountainsides. It prefers well-draining soil and bright, indirect light.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Schefflera Delavayi be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Schefflera Delavayi can be grown indoors as long as it receives bright, indirect light and is kept in well-draining soil.Q: How often should I water Schefflera Delavayi?
A: Water Schefflera Delavayi thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.Q: Can Schefflera Delavayi be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Schefflera Delavayi can be propagated from stem cuttings taken in the spring or summer.Q: How often should I fertilize Schefflera Delavayi?
A: Fertilize Schefflera Delavayi every 2-3 months with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer).
Related Plants
Other plants in the Schefflera genus include:
- Schefflera actinophylla
- Schefflera arboricola
- Schefflera elegantissima
References
- “Schefflera Delavayi.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c260.
- “Schefflera Delavayi.” Plant Care Today, plantcaretoday.com/schefflera-delavayi.html.
- “Schefflera Delavayi.” The Spruce, www.thespruce.com/schefflera-delavayi-1902778.
