Queensland Umbrella Tree
Scientific Name: Heptapleurum actinophyllum
Category: tree
Brief Description
A tree with distinctive, palmately compound leaves forming an 'umbrella' shape, and striking red/purple flower spikes.
Characteristics
Multi-stemmed tree often growing as an epiphyte before sending roots to the ground. Leaves are compound, radiating like spokes of an umbrella from a central stalk, with up to 16 glossy green leaflets. Flowers form in spectacular, long, radiating red or burgundy spikes.
Habitat
Native to tropical rainforests, gallery forests, and open eucalyptus woodlands. Often cultivated and now a common weed in many subtropical and tropical areas outside its natural range.
When to Find It
Flowers primarily from late summer to winter, though in tropical climates like Cairns, flowers can be seen at various times of the year.
Conservation Status
Least Concern in its native range, but considered an invasive weed in many other regions.
Ecological Role
Flowers produce abundant nectar, attracting birds (like lorikeets and honeyeaters), bats, and insects. The fruits are eaten and dispersed by various birds and mammals.
Easily Confused With
Schefflera arboricola (Dwarf Umbrella Tree) is smaller, with smaller leaves and greenish-yellow flowers. Other rainforest trees may have compound leaves but lack the distinctive radiating inflorescences.
Observation Tips
Look up into the canopy to see the distinct wheel-like arrangement of leaves and the long, radiating flower spikes. Often best observed when flowering, as the bright red spikes attract numerous nectar-feeding birds.
Interesting Facts
Formerly known as Schefflera actinophylla. It can grow as a 'strangler' similar to some figs, starting life in the fork of another tree and sending roots down to the ground.