How to prune umbrella plant

Spring, before the main period of active growth. Using sharp, clean pruners, cut selected stems back to just above a leaf node or branch junction, removing up to one-third of the plant's height. To encourage bushiness, cut multiple stems rather than just the tallest. Wear gloves as the sap can cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals.

Annually in spring to control size and shape; spot-prune wayward stems as needed. Umbrella Plant (Schefflera actinophylla) benefits from pruning to control its vigorous growth and encourage a bushier form. Without pruning it can become very tall and open-stemmed. Prune in spring by cutting stems back to just above a leaf node. It responds vigorously to cutting and will produce multiple new shoots below the cut.

Using sharp, clean pruners, cut selected stems back to just above a leaf node or branch junction, removing up to one-third of the plant's height. To encourage bushiness, cut multiple stems rather than just the tallest. Wear gloves as the sap can cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals.