Fourteen years ago I was in Florida and pulled what I called a "small weed" from my mother's yard. I took it back to NYC and planted it in a small pot. Fourteen years and several repotting's later it grew into a five foot tall plant. I have since decided it is not a "weed", although I am not sure what type of plant. Over the years, I gave it a generous watering once a week. During the past month or two, leaves are falling off at a very rapid pace and I don't know what to do. I have tried watering it both more often and less often. I bought a plant moisture tester that indicates the soil is wet. I have come to the realization, there is a very good chance my plant is not going to make it. The stem appears to be very strong, so I am hoping something can be done. Is there anything I can do to save it? Should I cut it back? Can I propagate it? Is it best to place a cutting in water or should I use a root hormone and plant in soil?, This plant has a lot of sentimental meaning to me, so whatever you can offer, is very much appreciated

My guess is it looks like a type of https://garden.org/plants/sear...

My other guess would be it wants more light.

I wish "weeds" like that would grow for me. LOL

It looks to me to be a Schefflera that is not getting enough light or water.

Schefflera arboricola variegata.

I think that is the most variegated I've ever seen a Scheff. The white parts of the leaves are not supporting the plant so the green parts are having to work overtime. The plant will shed leaves it can't support, usually the ones with the most white in them (the are doing the least labor). More light will help the situation. As the tallest stem has grown above the point of optimum light, you might consider pruning it back. You can start new plants from the cuttings.

I want weeds like that too.

I agree, your plant is Dwarf Umbrella Tree (Heptapleurum arboricola 'Variegata')



My first thought was that your plant is likely needing more light and less water, especially at this time of year but if you've been growing it, without issues for 14 years, something might have changed recently to cause it's decline.

How long ago did you last repot it? Are there drainage holes at the bottom of the pot to allow for excess water to leave the soil? Did you possibly place pebbles/rocks or broken pieces of crock in the bottom of the container when you repotted? For some reason, that method of potting has come back into style but it's never a good idea because it causes issues with proper soil aeration and drainage, leading to root rot.

Test for moisture by sticking your finger an inch or two down into the soil; if it feels wet, it's still likely quite wet at root level and you will need to adjust your watering routine to allow the soil to dry longer before adding more water.

I've propagated many Schefflera by pruning the stems and sticking them in very small pots of moist soil but I usually do it in the warmer months.