Scientific Name
Carmona microphylla (Associated with Carmona, Spain; plant with small leaves)
Common Name
Fukien Tea Tree, Fujian, Fukien Bonsai, Carmona Bonsai
Origin
Originates in the Fujian province of China, also native to other parts of Asia and even Australia
Description
Bonsai trees are not naturally tiny; they are cultivated, pruned and trained to grow in these minute proportions. The Fukien Tea Tree grows up to 3m in the wild, in fact! It has dark green leaves with tiny white hairs, can bloom with white, star-shaped flowers at any time of year and produces fruit which ripens to a deep red. In the UK, it is grown as an indoor bonsai as it would be far too cold for it outside for most of the year!
Light
The Fukien Tea Tree needs a lot of light, so place it in a bright window, ideally south facing. In winter it would benefit from a grow light too, to make up for the shorter daylight hours. Make sure it is not too close to a radiator or sat in a draught!
Water
Water when the top of the soil dries out, but make sure it drains and is not sat in a puddle as it will suffer if left with soggy roots!
Humidity
Bonsais like average to high humidity, and like it to be stable. Make sure they are not close to a radiator which would dry them out; they will benefit from misting or hosing down their leaves regularly or the introduction of a humidity tray.
Soil
Use a well-draining, moisture-retentive mix, for example, one with added pumice. Repot every couple of years in early spring. Its root system is sensitive, so if you are pruning it (which is done to keep the tree small), be careful!
Food
Feed every four waters in the growing season, and reduce to every six in autumn and winter. Pre-water the soil if using liquid fertiliser to protect the sensitive roots.
Temperature
Temperatures of 20°C are perfect- make sure it doesn't drop much below this, and take special care in winter.
Pet-safe
No, this plant is toxic to pets and small humans.
Sprouts Top Tips
Bonsai trees don't naturally grow this small- if you want to keep it miniature, you'll need to prune regularly. The Fukien tree will respond well to pruning the branches, becoming bushier, but take care when pruning its sensitive roots! If you want your tree to grow in interesting shapes, it may be worth doing further research into bonsai wiring. Lots of time and care go into making these plants look so incredible!
A lifestyle, gift, and plant shop, based in Bristol. Trying to make a difference to our customers, employees, suppliers, and community by following the three P’s of business; people, planet, profit; in that order.
Find out more
Sprouts of Bristol
2 Kingsdown Parade
Bristol
BS6 5UD
Store Hours
Open everyday 10am - 6pm
Apart from bank holidays
10am - 6pm
Had a desire box was ok but one plant not potted.. others very small.. rescue box from else’s where bigger plants and stronger looking
Had to grab this one as the pastel green was so pretty. There is a water resivour at the bottom to stop plants sitting in water so its perfect for orchids but at the moment I'm using it for another plant.
Wanted one of these for ages so I had to jump at the size and price of this plant. Stunning large leaves and has already grown loads
Lovely little plant beautifully packaged. Arrived in perfect condition at a great price. Thank you so much :)