octopus tree Scheffleraactinophylla (Endl.) H.A.T. Harms
Appearance
Schefflera actinophylla can grow to 40 ft. (12.2 m) tall. Stems can be single or multi-stemmed.
Foliage
Leaves are palm-like with 7-16 leaflets. Leaflets are ovate, entire and 12 in. (30 cm) long.
Flowers
Flowering occurs in summer to early fall, when large, red inflorescences develop at the stem tips. Flowers are red and 1 in. (2.5 cm) wide.
Fruit
Fruits are round, dark purple, and 0.25 in. (7 mm) in diameter.
Ecological Threat
Schefflera actinophylla is native to Australia and was introduced into Florida in 1927 as an ornamental. Plants can tolerate a wide range of sun and moisture levels, but are restricted to areas with minimum temperatures above 35°F (1.7°C).