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Description
Schefflera Morototoni is a tropical plant that is native to Central and South America. It is also known as the Morototoni Umbrella Tree or the Brazilian Umbrella Tree. This plant is characterized by its large, glossy, and dark green leaves that are arranged in an umbrella-like shape. The leaves can grow up to 18 inches in length and are composed of several smaller leaflets. The plant can grow up to 30 feet tall in its natural habitat, but it can be kept smaller with regular pruning.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Araliaceae |
| Genus | Schefflera |
Appearance
The Schefflera Morototoni is a stunning plant that is sure to catch the eye with its unique umbrella-like shape. It has large, dark green leaves that are glossy and smooth to the touch. The leaves are made up of several smaller leaflets that are arranged in a circular pattern. The plant can grow up to 30 feet tall in its natural habitat, but it can be kept smaller with regular pruning. The plant produces small, greenish-white flowers that are followed by small, red berries.
Care Guide
Schefflera Morototoni is a relatively easy plant to care for, but it does have specific requirements to thrive. Here are some tips on how to care for this tropical plant:- Water: The plant prefers consistently moist soil, but it should not be waterlogged. Water when the top inch of soil is dry.- Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season (spring and summer).- Soil: Use a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: The plant prefers bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves.- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 10 and 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Schefflera Morototoni is susceptible to common pests such as spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. It is also prone to root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly-draining soil. To prevent pest infestations, regularly inspect the plant and treat with an appropriate insecticide if necessary. To prevent root rot, make sure the soil is well-draining and only water when the top inch of soil is dry.
Habitat
Schefflera Morototoni is native to Central and South America, specifically in Brazil, Colombia, and Venezuela. It grows in tropical rainforests and can grow up to 30 feet tall in its natural habitat. The plant prefers warm and humid environments, with temperatures ranging from 60-80°F.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Schefflera Morototoni toxic to pets?
A: Yes, the plant is toxic to pets if ingested. Keep it out of reach of pets and children.
Q: Can Schefflera Morototoni be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown indoors as long as it is placed in bright, indirect light.
Q: How often should Schefflera Morototoni be pruned?
A: Prune the plant as needed to maintain its shape and size. It can be pruned throughout the year, but avoid pruning during the winter months.
Q: Can Schefflera Morototoni be propagated?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated through stem cuttings. Take a 4-6 inch cutting from the parent plant and place it in a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist and place the cutting in bright, indirect light. The cutting should root within a few weeks.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Schefflera Morototoni:- Schefflera Actinophylla (Umbrella Tree)- Schefflera Arboricola (Dwarf Umbrella Tree)- Schefflera Elegantissima (False Aralia)
References
– “Schefflera Morototoni.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 2, 2021. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b503.- “Schefflera Morototoni.” Plants of the World Online. Accessed September 2, 2021. http://www.plantsoftheworldonline.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:924772-1.
