Umbrella tree (Schefflera actinophylla) shedding flower spikes

[Laisla87]

I have a mature Umbrella tree (Schefflera actinophylla) in my yard (see pics below). It has a 40cm wide base and reaches almost 20m high. My problem is the red fire spikes (hugely popular with the local birds) that are turning black and just dropping off whole. Is this normal? We are in winter here in Sydney and have had a couple of days in May with unusually cold weather. I'm worried that there may be something causing this or it is a sign of stress. Has anyone experienced this?

[Tropicgardener]

It is quite normal for this to happen...........Umbrella trees are locally native to this area and they do that here, the fruit are ripe and ready for planting (or putting in the bin!)