Family: Araliaceae

Origin, Description & Uses:
Heptapleurum arboricola (dwarf umbrella tree, miniature schefflera, parasol plant) is a small evergreen tree or large shrub native to Hainan and Taiwan. It is valued for its attractive glossy foliage, which is arranged in umbrella-like clusters, and is widely grown as a houseplant due to its tolerance of neglect, low light, and poor growing conditions. In tropical and subtropical regions it is also commonly used as an ornamental landscape plant, hedge, or container specimen. Its adaptability and ease of cultivation have contributed to its popularity and widespread cultivation around the world.

Risks & Threats:
Dwarf umbrella tree is naturalized on Kauaʻi, Oʻahu, Maui, and Hawaiʻi Island and possesses traits that are cause for concern. The species readily escapes cultivation and has become naturalized in many tropical and subtropical regions globally. It can establish in moist forests and other natural areas, where it may compete with native vegetation. Like its invasive relative, the octopus tree (Heptapleurum actinophyllum), it can grow as an epiphyte on host trees, producing roots that may eventually envelop and damage them. Its ability to thrive in shaded, wet forest environments increases its potential to invade mesic and wet tropical ecosystems. Because this species is already widespread in Hawaiʻi, landowners and landscapers are encouraged to manage existing plants responsibly and avoid planting it in or near natural areas where it is not yet well established. Choosing a low-risk or native alternative when available can help reduce the risk of further spread and protect Hawaiʻi’s unique ecosystems.

High Risk Traits:

• Thrives and spreads in regions with tropical climates
  
• Naturalized on Kauai, Oahu, Maui and Hawaii (Hawaiian Islands) and elsewhere in the wet tropics
  
• An invasive tree in Australia, South Africa and Hawaii, with growing evidence that it will negatively impact natural ecosystems
  
• Other Schefflera species are invasive
  
• Causes dermatitis, and may be toxic to animals and people if ingested
  
• Can grow in full sun to shade
  
• Tolerates many soil types
  
• May grow epiphytically, and roots could strangle host trees like ‘ōhi‘a
  
• Reproduces by potentially prolific seed production
  
• Seeds dispersed by birds, and through intentional cultivation
  
• Tolerates and will grow back after repeated cutting and severe pruning

Low Risk Traits:

• Use as an indoor plant eliminates invasion risk
  
• Unarmed (no spines, thorns, or burrs)
  
• Not documented to be allelopathic
  
• Herbicides may provide effective control