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Description
Schefflera Digitata, also known as Pate, is a tropical evergreen plant that belongs to the family Araliaceae. Native to New Zealand, it is a popular ornamental plant that is commonly cultivated in gardens and homes around the world. The plant features a large, dense crown of leaves that grow on a single stem. Its leaves are digitate, meaning they are divided into several leaflets, and each leaflet is oblong in shape with a glossy green surface. Schefflera Digitata produces small greenish-white flowers that grow in clusters and are followed by black or red berries.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Araliaceae |
| Genus | Schefflera |
| Species | Digitata |
Appearance
Schefflera Digitata is a large, multi-stemmed shrub or small tree that can grow up to 10 meters tall. Its leaves are glossy green, digitate, and measure up to 30 cm long. The leaflets are oblong-shaped, with pointed tips and serrated edges. The plant produces small greenish-white flowers that grow in clusters, followed by black or red berries that measure about 5 mm in diameter. The bark of the plant is smooth and grayish-brown in color.
Care Guide
Schefflera Digitata is a relatively low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips to help you keep your plant healthy:
- Water: Schefflera Digitata prefers consistently moist soil, so water it regularly, but be careful not to overwater it, as this can lead to root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize your plant every four to six weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Schefflera Digitata prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers bright, indirect light, but can tolerate some direct sunlight. Avoid placing it in full sun, as this can scorch the leaves.
- Hardiness Zones: Schefflera Digitata is hardy in USDA zones 10 and 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Schefflera Digitata is susceptible to a few common pests and diseases:
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and browning of the leaves. Treat them with insecticidal soap.
- Mealybugs: These white, cottony pests can infest the plant and cause stunted growth. Treat them with insecticidal soap.
- Root rot: Overwatering can cause the roots to rot. To prevent this, make sure the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Schefflera Digitata is native to New Zealand, where it grows in lowland and montane forests. It prefers moist, well-draining soil and can tolerate some shade.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Schefflera Digitata?
A: Water your plant regularly, but be careful not to overwater it. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again.
Q: Can Schefflera Digitata tolerate direct sunlight?
A: The plant prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate some direct sunlight. However, avoid placing it in full sun, as this can scorch the leaves.
Q: What should I do if my Schefflera Digitata’s leaves are turning yellow?
A: Yellowing leaves can be a sign of overwatering or underwatering. Check the soil moisture and adjust your watering accordingly.
Q: Can I prune my Schefflera Digitata?
A: Yes, you can prune your plant to maintain its shape or size. Prune it in the spring or early summer, and make sure to sterilize your pruning tools to prevent the spread of disease.
Related Plants
- Schefflera Actinophylla
- Schefflera Arboricola
- Schefflera Elegantissima
References
- “Schefflera Digitata.” New Zealand Plant Conservation Network. https://www.nzpcn.org.nz/flora/species/schefflera-digitata/
- “Schefflera Digitata.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fp464
- “Schefflera Digitata.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287438&isprofile=0&basic=Schefflera%20digitata
