octopus tree USDA PLANTS Symbol: SCAC2
U.S. Nativity: Exotic
Habit: Hardwood Trees
Schefflera actinophylla (Endl.) H.A.T. Harms
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Taxonomic Rank: Magnoliopsida: Apiales: Araliaceae
Synonym(s): brassaia, ivy palm, schefflera, umbrella tree
Native Range: Australia, New Guinea ()
Appearance
Schefflera actinophylla can grow to 40 ft. (12.2 m) tall. Stems can be single or multi-stemmed.
Foliage
Leaves are palm-like with 7-16 leaflets. Leaflets are ovate, entire and 12 in. (30 cm) long.
Flowers
Flowering occurs in summer to early fall, when large, red inflorescences develop at the stem tips. Flowers are red and 1 in. (2.5 cm) wide.
Fruit
Fruits are round, dark purple, and 0.25 in. (7 mm) in diameter.
Ecological Threat
Schefflera actinophylla is native to Australia and was introduced into Florida in 1927 as an ornamental. Plants can tolerate a wide range of sun and moisture levels, but are restricted to areas with minimum temperatures above 35°F (1.7°C).
EDDMapS Distribution:
This map is incomplete and is based only on current site and county level reports made by experts and records obtained from USDA Plants Database. For more information, visit www.eddmaps.org 		 


State List
This map identifies those states that list this species on their invasive species list or law.

Invasive Listing Sources: