Welcome to The Bio Dude!
*The plant pictured is not necessarily the plant you will receive, but will be same size and shape. Plants are shipped in nursery pots and may vary slightly in pot size.*
A GREAT EDIBLE SOURCE FOR MONKEY TAIL SKINKS
Common Name: Umbrella Tree,Australia Umbrella Tree, Octopus Tree
Scientific Name: Schefflera actinophylla 'Amate', Heptapleurum actinophyllum 'Amate'
Scheffleras are very hardy, durable tropical shrubs that can get very large if not pruned to maintain desired shape. With age, it can develop a woody trunk. It has a wide, shallow fibrous root system with thick roots forming for anchorage with age.
-Care Recommendations By The Dude-
Best for These Animals:
Small to medium-sized reptiles and amphibians, including arboreal (tree-dwelling) species, from tropical and temperate climate zones. Can also be used by some larger reptiles and amphibians once it matures.
Bio Dude Substrates:
The Bio Dude's Terra Flora (for tropical or rainforest setups)
The Bio Dude's Terra Fauna (for slightly drier but still humid forest environments)
The Bio Dude's Terra Firma (for temperate terrestrial environments with only occasional humidity spikes)
Soil Depth:
Moderate to deep soil.
Lighting:
All light levels (or full-spectrum LED/UVB terrarium lighting). Prefers indirect light.
Avoid placing directly under intense heat lamps — leaves can scorch easily.
Humidity & Misting:
Prefers moderate to high humidity (40% – 100%), but can tolerate less than 40% in certain circumstances.
Ensure good air circulation to prevent mold.
Temperature Tolerance & Placement in the Terrarium:
Ideal range: 60–80°F (15.5–27°C), but can take up to 85 degrees.
Avoid prolonged exposure below 60°F (15°C).
Edible & Side Effects if Ingested:
Scheffleras contain sharp calcium oxalate crystals known as raphides.
Ingestion is not recommended and may cause oral irritation. However, reptiles and amphibians do not typically eat them. It can be safely consumed by monkey tail skinks.
Pot Size & Packaging: A single 6" potted schefflera plant is shipped in the pot, wrapped in paper.
