Schefflera arboricola ‘Variegata’ (Variegated Dwarf Umbrella Plant) – A large upright shrub to 8 to 16 feet tall by 6 to 8 feet wide with palmate mid-green leaves having 7-9 narrow leaflets that are splashed with yellow. Can be grown in full sun in Santa Barbara but looks best where it can brighten a shady spot. Water occasionally to regularly. Hardy to at least down to 25 F. A nice large shrub that puts a splash of color in the shade garden. We have had this plant growing in a shaded side of our demonstration garden for many years and it is surprisingly tough, having weathered cold winter temperatures to 25 F. and long periods of summer without irrigation. The plant is now about 8 feet tall and 5 feet wide. It was originally purchased as an interior house plant and, though not tagged, it appears to be very similar or the same as the cultivar ‘Gold Finger’. Schefflera arboricola is native to Taiwan – it was reportedly first introduced into the trade in the 1960’s by San Diego area nurseryman Horace Anderson from cuttings originating from the Huntington Botanic Gardens.  This description is based on our research and the observations we have made of this plant as it grows in containers at our nursery, in our own garden and in other gardens. We also appreciate receiving feedback of any kind from those who have additional information about this plant, particularly if they disagree with what we have written or if they have additional cultural tips that would aid others in growing Schefflera arboricola ‘Variegata’.