Schefflera, the dwarf umbrella tree, holds its glossy leaflets in neat spokes, each cluster opening like a little green umbrella. It is one of the more forgiving houseplants around, growing steadily from a tabletop plant into a full floor specimen several feet tall.

Bright, indirect light keeps it dense; it tolerates lower light but stretches toward the window. Water when the top inch of soil dries, and never let the pot sit in a saucer of water. Pinch or trim the growing tips any time to keep it branching and bushy.