Growing Schefflera and Ficus Outdoors in Zone 9

Freeze-Tender but Root-Hardy

In Houston (Zone 9), both Schefflera and Ficus can be planted in ground:

• They die back to ground in hard freezes (<2 days below freezing) but often resprout from roots.
• Schefflera is smaller—easier to cover on freeze nights.
• Both love full sun.

Expect winter dieback; spring regrowth is reliable if roots survive.