Origin
The Schefflera Actinophylla 'Amate', also known as the umbrella plant, has its origin in the tropical forests of Australia and New Guinea. It's a popular house plant that belongs to the Araliaceae family. The plant was given the nickname 'Amate' by the culture that first collected and cultivated it.

Characteristics
The Schefflera Actinophylla 'Amate' is a strong grower and can reach up to 15 meters in the wild. The plant has shiny, long, leathery leaves that grow in groups at the end of the stems, making them resemble umbrellas. The 'Amate' rarely blooms indoors, but when it does, it produces long clusters of red flowers that contain a lot of nectar, which is attractive to birds and bats in its natural environment.

Care
The Schefflera Actinophylla 'Amate' requires a moderate to warm climate, similar to its tropical origin. The plant thrives well in semi-shade to bright, indirect light and needs well-drained soil to prevent root rot. Regular watering in combination with good humidity is essential for the 'Amate's' health. However, overwatering, especially in the winter, can be harmful.