Heptapleurum delavayi (formerly Schefflera delavayi) is native to the montane forests of southwest China. It forms a bold, architectural evergreen with large, leathery, palmate leaves that give a distinctly subtropical look. In maturity, plants may produce dramatic, branched flower panicles in late summer, followed by ornamental seed heads. Its natural habitat of cool, high-altitude forests explains its surprising cold tolerance compared with many tropical-looking shrubs. There are varying forms available such as the ‘Oak Leaf’ form pictured.
| KEY PLANT INFORMATION | |
|---|---|
| Family: | Araliaceae |
| Plant Type: | Evergreen shrub or tree |
| Plant Colours: | Dark green foliage |
| Flowering period: | Late summer–autumn |
| Fragrance: | Light |
| Mature Height: | 4–6 m |
| Light Requirements: | Sun or partial shade |
| Water Requirements: | Moderate, free draining |
| Cold Hardiness: | –12 °C (10 °F) |
| Difficulty: | Easy to moderate |
Plant Type
Evergreen shrub or tree
This is an evergreen shrub or small tree with a woody framework, rather than a soft-stemmed tropical. It develops a strong central trunk with branching structure over time, making it valuable for year-round structure in exotic-style gardens. Unlike tender scheffleras grown as houseplants, Heptapleurum delavayi is genuinely outdoor-hardy in sheltered temperate gardens and becomes more robust with age and establishment.
Mature Height
4–6 metres (13–20 feet)
In favourable garden conditions, Heptapleurum delavayi typically reaches 4–6 metres (13–20 feet) tall, with a spread of around 3–4 metres. Growth is steady rather than fast, especially in cooler climates. Plants grown in containers or exposed sites may remain smaller. Its upright habit and large leaves make it ideal as a focal point or backdrop in tropical-style planting schemes.
Light Requirements
Full sun to partial shade
This species performs best in full sun to light shade. Sun encourages denser growth and thicker, more resilient leaves, while light shade is beneficial in hot or exposed gardens. Deep shade should be avoided, as it can lead to sparse growth and elongated stems. Shelter from cold winds is important, as wind exposure can scorch foliage and reduce winter hardiness.
Water Requirements
Moist but well drained
Heptapleurum delavayi prefers moderate, regular watering, particularly during establishment and active growth in spring and summer. Soil should be moisture-retentive but free-draining, as waterlogging increases the risk of root problems in winter. Once established, it shows good drought tolerance compared with many exotic plants, though mulching helps maintain soil moisture and root health.
Cold Hardiness
–12 °C (10 °F)
Well-established plants can tolerate temperatures down to around –12 °C (10 °F), especially in sheltered positions with good drainage. Young plants are more vulnerable and benefit from fleece or wind protection during their first few winters. Cold tolerance improves significantly as the trunk thickens and lignifies. Prolonged freezes, rather than brief cold snaps, pose the greatest risk.
Propagation tips
Propagation is most reliable by semi-ripe cuttings taken in late summer. Cuttings should include a small section of woody stem and be rooted in a free-draining medium with gentle bottom heat. Seed propagation is possible but slow and variable. Young plants should be grown on under protection for at least one winter before planting out to improve long-term survival.
