The Toxicity of Schefflera Arboricola Plants

Human Toxicity

• Touching the leaves or sap from any injured part of the plant can cause dermatitis, or skin irritation, in some individuals. Symptoms may include swelling, itching, rashes or hives. The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia recommends washing the exposed skin with soap and water and applying a hydrocortisone cream to help with irritation and inflammation. Ingesting the plant can cause symptoms such as vomiting, numbness, mouth tingling and lack of coordination. North Carolina State University describes the plant's toxicity as low if ingested and notes that skin irritation is usually brief, lasting only a few minutes

Animal Toxicity

• Members of the Schefflera genus contain calcium oxalate crystals, which the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals describes as being toxic to both dogs and cats if ingested. Symptoms of calcium oxalate poisoning include intense irritation of the mouth, lips and tongue, as well as excessive drooling, vomiting and trouble swallowing. If you think your cat or dog has ingested any part of dwarf schefflera, contact your veterinarian or call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435. The ASPCA may charge a consultation fee.

Outdoor Care

• Dwarf schefflera is only hardy in the frost-free climates of U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 10 to 12, where it prefers a location with sandy, well-draining soil and morning sunlight and afternoon shade. Direct sunlight will scorch the leaves. Water deeply and regularly throughout the growing season, allowing the soil to almost completely dry out before watering again. Dwarf schefflera has a high drought tolerance and a moderate salt tolerance. The shrub may produce attractive drupes when grown outdoors: warn children not to sample them.

Indoor Care

• Place indoor plants in an east-, west- or south-facing window with a light curtain to provide some protection. Temperatures should not go below 60 degrees Fahrenheit, according to the Missouri Botanical Garden. Dwarf schefflera prefers a well-draining soil mixture enhanced with peat moss for extra drainage. Reduce watering in the fall and winter. To increase humidity, mist foliage occasionally or place the container in a shallow tray filled with pebbles. Wear gloves if you decide to prune the shrub to avoid getting sap on your hands.