Counting my 'Fingers'

Small Schefflera from Zambales probably S. microphylla

Plant from Palaui seeds

From a garden in Ilocos

Schefflera is a genus popular in landscape. Species like Schefflera actinophylla and S. arboricola are well known world wide as ornamental plants even suitable for indoor use. Some Philippine natives like S. blancoi and S. odorata have long been established as garden plants in Metro Manila. Most ornamental Schefflera varieties have gone to be known as 5 fingers, 6 fingers, 7 fingers etc. depending on the number of individual leaflets there are in terminal whorls. Most local species are referred to as galamay amo. 'Galamay' is a vernacular term for appendage or extremity, still near the concept of fingers.

Simple-leafed species from Quezon

Species used in Ayala Triangle

Apart from the 2 mentioned native species, there are a few other natives which were also introduced into the garden trade.  Some of them became popular but mostly are grown exclusively by collectors who can differentiate them from the more common Schefflera odorata.  In looking around in garden shops and private collections for almost a decade, I have acquired a few of these and tested whether they would fare well in an urban garden like mine. After years of experimenting, about a handful have been proven to thrive in hot Metro Manila besides S. blancoi and  S. odorata.  Problem is they are hard to name and identify.

What they call Starshine might be S. albidobracteata

Schefflera plants generally are easy to propagate either from seeds and even from cuttings. They are easy to care for but quite slow growing.  But neglected specimens tend to get leggy and tall.  They should be trimmed and kept low.  Trimming regularly would make the plant bushy therefore more attractive.  Cut stems could be used as propagation material.

Common S. odorata

Like most members of the Aralia family, Schefflera species love moisture. Smaller species would grow well as understory plants, but would tolerate partial shade as long as the soil is kept to retain good amounts of water.