Exotic plants like the Schefflera (often called the Umbrella Tree) are a total vibe for your office or living room—but only when they’re looking lush and green. If your Schefflera starts sporting brown leaves, it’s a major cry for help, and you’ll want to act fast to save it.
Why is my Schefflera getting brown leaves?
There isn’t just one single reason for leaf discoloration; it’s usually a sign that something in the environment is off. Your houseplant might be sitting in a spot it hates. For starters, these plants are pretty sensitive to cold drafts. A lack of light is another big culprit, often leading to brown or yellow leaves, and it’s actually one of the most common reasons a Schefflera starts dropping leaves altogether.
On the flip side, harsh direct sun and intense heat can scorch the foliage just as easily. While you might think the plant is thirsty, actual underwatering is rarely the main cause of browning. In fact, if you panic-water a plant that’s already struggling, you might end up with root rot, which is a death sentence for an Umbrella Tree. Other potential issues include a lack of nutrients or even a fungal infection.
Possible causes for brown leaves:
- Not enough sunlight
- Direct, scorching sun or excessive heat
- Root rot (overwatering)
- Cold drafts or chilly temperatures
- Nutrient deficiency
- Fungal infections
- Rarely: Underwatering
Can I still save my Schefflera?
If your plant only has a few brown spots, don’t give up on it yet! Your first move should be to check the soil. If it’s bone-dry, give your Schefflera a good watering or let the pot sit in a water bath for a few minutes. However, if the soil is soggy, you need to repot it immediately. Make sure to trim away any mushy, rotted roots before putting it in fresh soil.
Next, take a good look at its home. Is it bright and warm enough, or is it sitting in the path of an AC vent? You want to find a “Goldilocks” spot—bright, indirect light and standard room temperatures are perfect. Finally, check for any signs of fungus. If you see infected areas, prune those parts off right away to keep the problem from spreading to the rest of the plant.
Quick Tip: Most of the time, brown leaves are just a sign that your plant isn’t happy with its location. Moving it to a better spot is usually the easiest way to prevent future leaf drama!
