House plants with 6 leaves radiating from a central stem are popular for their full, bushy appearance. This arrangement, known as whorled phyllotaxy in botany results in a visually pleasing circular pattern. Some of the most common 6-leaved houseplants include varieties of schefflera, calathea maranta, diffenbachia, and aglaonema. Read on for tips on identifying and caring for these beautiful 6-leafed plants.
Why Do Some Houseplants Have 6 Leaves?
Leaves emerging from stems in multiples of three is common in certain plant species. The leaves extend outwards in circles of 3 leaf pairs from growth nodes on the stem. This whorled phyllotaxy results in 6 leaves total per node. Plants like scheffleras and calatheas follow this natural growth pattern.
The spoke-like arrangement allows maximum exposure to sunlight coming from all angles. It also gives the plants a full, round shape. For many popular houseplants, having 6 leaves is simply part of their genetic makeup.
Recognizing Common 6-Leaved Houseplants
Here are some of the most popular houseplants that naturally display 6 leaves due to their whorled phyllotaxy
Schefflera (Umbrella Plant)
This tropical shrub is most recognizable by its oval green leaves radiating out like spokes on an umbrella. Schefflera actinophylla is the classic umbrella plant, while S. arboricola is a smaller, more compact cultivar. Both are excellent easy care houseplants.
Calathea (Prayer Plant)
Calathea are nicknamed prayer plants, with vividly patterned leaves in green, pink, white, and other colors. There are many varieties, like the peacock plant (Calathea makoyana) and rattlesnake plant (Calathea lancifolia). Six large, colorful leaves emerge at each node.
Maranta (Prayer Plant)
Maranta leuconeura, also called prayer plant, displays 6 oval green leaves distinctly marked with red veins. It earned its name from the prayer-like way its leaves close upwards at night. True prayer plants belong to the Maranta genus.
Diffenbachia (Dumb Cane)
Tropical foliage plants like Diffenbachia seguine (dumb cane) and Diffenbachia amoena grow 6 large, oval leaves per stem. They need bright light with routine moisture. Leaf shapes and patterns vary.
Aglaonema (Chinese Evergreen)
Several species like Aglaonema ‘Silver Queen’ and ‘Emerald Beauty’ are known for their 6 solid or variegated leaves in shades of silver, green, and white. Slow growing and tolerant of dry air, these make excellent beginner houseplants.
Tips for Identifying 6-Leaved Houseplants
When trying to identify an unknown houseplant with 6 leaves, look for:
- Leaves emerging in circles of 3 pairs from the stems
- Unique leaf shapes, colors, and sizes
- Distinct leaf top & underside colors
- Referencing plant ID guides to match features
- Reading the botanical name on the plant tag or description
Getting familiar with key features like leaf arrangements, edges, and venation patterns helps correctly identify 6-leaved houseplant varieties.
Caring for 6-Leaved Houseplants
While care varies slightly depending on the species, most houseplants with 6 leaves appreciate:
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Bright, indirect sunlight – Few tolerate direct sun. Variegated types need more light.
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Warm temperatures – Ideal range is 60-80°F. Keep away from cold/hot drafts.
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Moderate to high humidity – 40-60% is ideal. Use a humidifier or pebble tray.
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Quick-draining potting mix – Prefer peaty soil that retains some moisture.
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Watering when top soil dries out – Check moisture 1-2 inches deep. Avoid soggy mix.
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Occasional fertilizing – Use a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer during growing season.
Always tailor care to your plant’s needs. Check individual plant profiles for specifics. Proper growing conditions will keep 6-leafed houseplants looking their best!
Enjoying 6-Leaved Houseplant Beauty
One of the joys of indoor gardening is identifying plant species by their unique characteristics. Paying attention to leaf arrangements, counts, and details takes practice. But soon you’ll be recognizing those beautiful 6-leaved varieties in no time!
Popular plants like umbrella trees, prayer plants, calatheas, and Chinese evergreens share similar warm, humid growing preferences. Their whorled foliage patterns create full, bushy plants that add wonder and excitement to any plant collection.
Adding a few new 6-leafed houseplants is an easy way to increase visual appeal. Have fun exploring the many options and finding your perfect plant matches!
Get to Know Your Schefflera Houseplant
Its upright branching stems bear horizontal spoke-like leaves that consist of about 8 large, dark-green leaflets. It also goes by the common name Umbrella Tree.
This handsome houseplant has origins in Australia and the Pacific Islands.
How big does it get? You can expect your houseplant to grow to 6 ft (1.8 m). Tall Schefflera plants will need support. Mature plants have aerial roots that can be trained to cling to a moss stick.
Is Schefflera toxic to cats and dogs? Yes. According to the ASPCA, it contains calcium oxalate crystals that is poisonous to pets. Contact your veterinarian immediately if you believe your pet has ingested this plant.
A dwarf variety exists — Schefflera arboricola is a much smaller and bushier plant, eventually growing to 4 ft (1.2 m) tall.
Newer hybrids have given us some exciting named varieties to choose from. Schefflera arboricola Variegata is a variegated form with green and cream leaves. Gold Capella is boldly splashed with golden yellow. Luseane has smaller leaves than the species, sometimes available with variegated leaves.
Schefflera Plant Buying Tips
Buying a new Schefflera? Choose a plant based on the size and type you want. Theyre all easy to grow. With good care, this beautiful, tropical house plant will live for many years.
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FAQ
How do I care for a Schefflera plant?
- Water regularly. Schefflera plants are drought-tolerant so that they can handle brief periods of low water. …
- Clean the leaves. …
- Monitor for pests. …
- Prune occasionally. …
- Repot every few years.
Where is the best place to put an umbrella plant in the house?
Grow umbrella plant in a spot that gets bright, indirect light for the best results. Keep it out of direct sun and in a room that doesn’t get too cold.Apr 18, 2024
Is Schefflera a good houseplant?
Schefflera, also known as the umbrella plant, is a popular houseplant because it is easy care and adds fun texture with its divided hand-like leaves. It tolerates a wide range of growing conditions, making it an ideal option for beginners.
How do you care for an octopus tree indoors?
A position in good light without direct sunlight is preferred for a straight but bushy plant. Moist soils are best for good growth but the Octopus Plant is accepting of a few missed waterings – it will forgive you! Regular health checks for pests such as Red Spider Mite and Scale Insects are advised.
What houseplants have large leaves?
Beautiful houseplants with large leaves include: Philodendron bipinnatifidum. There are many distinct types of houseplants, and each one makes a striking statement. – Here is a guide to some houseplants that sport massive leaves and the care they need. 1. Monstera deliciosa – Swiss Cheese Plant
What are the best houseplants?
Eye-catching and easy to care for, a monstera (aka Swiss cheese plant) is one of the most popular houseplants for a reason. This plant not only cleans the air around it, but it also grows quickly, making it perfect for those who are looking to fill an empty corner.
What are the best big-leaf houseplants?
Read on to learn about 12 incredible big-leaf houseplants, including care tips to help them thrive for years to come. Eye-catching and easy to care for, a monstera (aka Swiss cheese plant) is one of the most popular houseplants for a reason.
What houseplants can I bring home from the garden shop?
Using our houseplant identification techniques, you can be sure to bring this plant home from the garden shop. It offers both visual interest and air-purifying benefits. Also known as Devil’s Ivy, is a popular and hardy houseplant appreciated for its heart-shaped leaves with variegated shades of green and gold.
Are large leaf houseplants a good idea?
Large leaf houseplants are for decoration purposes and have several good benefits. Here I will discuss some advantages of having huge foliage evergreens inside your homes. The large foliage can easily catch the eye and bring positive vibes inside a home. Their distinct shapes and colors give personality to the interior.
How do I choose a good houseplant?
When browsing the nursery for a new, healthy houseplant, you’ll find that certain options are more readily available than others. The most common houseplants are known for being low maintenance, tolerant of a range of growing conditions, and beautiful to look at.