Umbrella Plant

The umbrella plant is known for its variegated foliage that is rich and luscious in nature. The plant has been christened with five other identities to refer and associate with. They are Darmera peltata, Podophyllum peltatum, Cyperus alternifolius, Schefflera arboricola and Eriogonum longifolium.

The Darmera peltata is also referred to as the Indian Rhubarb. The plant is fluffed with the presence of leaves and flowers. The flowers bloom before the onset of leaves. The flowers adorn shades swaying from white to shades of pink. They have round cymes of flowers that are five petaled in nature. There are many pinkish white flowers that are a part of the plant. The leaves are deep lobed, coarsely toothed with vociferous veins. The leaves change their color quarters from a rich green to fuschia red. Podophyllum peltatum range from 20 to 30 cm in diameter. Their length is accompanied with the lobes that have abstruse incisions, these being 5 to 10 in number. The tree is also referred to as the mayapple, wild lemon, devils apple and wild mandrake to name a few. Cyperus alternifolius is a native of Madagascar. Schefflera arboricola is an evergreen shrub that grows up to 3 to 4 meters. The leaves have leaflets that are 9 to 20 cms long. Each leaf has 7 to 9 leaflets. The umbels have 5 to 10 flowers. Eriogonum longifolium is also identified as Harper's umbrella plant or Harper's buckwheat. It stays in a very immature state where the size is concerned. The flowers have stalk that develop in full bloom and wither away gradually.

Caring for your Umbrella Plant

• Light is extremely important for every plant and the umbrella plant is no exception to this requirement. The process of photosynthesis can take place when the plant is exposed to sufficient light. Excess of sunlight can also prove harmful for the plant. The leaves may gradually face discoloration. Diffused sunlight is what the plant requires. You may choose to keep it indoors as it is a houseplant. It requires adequate sunlight to grow, however, direct and sharp sunlight is not entertained by the plant.
• The plant requires to be pruned from time to time in order to yield a healthy crop. The umbrella plant can grow up to 8 feet in height. However, its height can be controlled and the plant be kept in shape with the activity of pruning. Get rid of dead leaves still hanging on the stems and trim the plant to give its fresh foliage, life to breathe again.
• No pest problems for this plant. However, when the plant is a part of the garden, there are chances that mealy bugs, scale insects and mites may victimize the plant. If you notice white or brown spots on the flip side of the leaves, you may gather that infestation has occurred. Application or spraying of pesticides is a must to keep the plant healthy and pest free.
• Seeds cutting and air-layers are the ways in which propagation of this plant is possible. When you bring home an umbrella plant, pot it in the garden where there is plenty of sunlight to bask in. You may shift the plant back indoors where the conditions provide diffused sunlight. This practice will help you attain a thick and lush umbrella crop.
• They are an excellent selection for outlining your hedges and giving your landscape a green aura.
• The umbrella plant requires moist condition. As far as the watering schedule is concerned, it should be tight and diligent. Water the houseplant thoroughly and be regular with your watering time tables. Excessive water is not what the plant demands. So, keep a tab on the force of the hose pipe! Be very cautious when you water the plant during frost.

The umbrella plant would look gorgeous in your garden and could be the perfect choice to adorn your home decor. You may be surprised to find yourself noticing the presence of this plant around. Hope this article has not left any doubts in your mind and has sowed the seeds of surety for bringing this beautiful plant home.