Schefflera actinophylla

"Umbrella Tree," "Octopus Tree," and "Queensland Umbrella Tree.", Australian Ivy Palm

Message of the Flower

Organised Material Energy

The Mother’s Comment

Clustered, compact, and methodical, it is powerful through its organisation.

Spiritual Message by the Mother/ Quotes by Sri Aurobindo

Life energy, life-force is not physical in itself; it is not material energy, but rather a different principle supporting Matter and involved in it. It supports and occupies all forms and without it no physical form could have come into being or could remain in being. It acts in all material forces such as electricity and is nearest to self-manifestation in those that are nearest to pure force; no material force could exist or act without it, for from it they derive their energy and movement and they are its vehicles.

Sri Aurobindo, Kena and Other Upanishads: The Superlife—Life of Our Life

The true Life-Force too reveals itself as no longer this troubled harassed divided striving surface energy, but a great and radiant Divine Power, full of peace and strength and bliss, a wide-wayed Angel of Life with its wings of Might enfolding the universe.

Sri Aurobindo, The Synthesis of Yoga - I: The Ascent of the Sacrifice - II

Colour

red or maroon

Family

Araliaceae

Cultivars

does not have a wide range of distinct cultivars

Flower Size

The individual flowers are small and inconspicuous, but they are borne in large, showy inflorescences.

Flower Texture

smooth and waxy texture

Number of Petals

five

Floral Symmetry

radial symmetry

Fragrance of Flower

subtle, sweet fragrance

Leaf Texture

leathery and glossy

Leaf Arrangement

arranged alternately on the stem.

Leaf Color

dark green

Structural Variation (Shrub or Tree)

shrub or small tree.

Life Cycle

perennial plant with a long lifespan.

Blooming Period

may bloom sporadically throughout the year, with peak flowering typically occurring during the warmer months.

Climate

tropical and subtropical climates.

Water Requirements

regular watering and well-drained soil.

Soil Type

Well-draining, fertile soil

Temperature Ranges

warm temperatures and cannot tolerate frost.

Sun or Shade

partial to full shade.

Pollinators

Insects, such as bees

Habitat

native to rainforests and can be found in various tropical habitats.

Role in the Ecosystem

habitat and food source for various wildlife species

Ornamental

It is grown as an ornamental plant for its attractive foliage and unique appearance.

Endangered Status

not considered endangered