Fukien Tea Bonsai
There are many different types of bonsai, all of which require specific care. Fukien Tea bonsai is no exception. It is also known as Carmona microphylla or Ehretia buxifolia. Fukien Tea is an evergreen shrub-like plant that is named after the southeastern Chinese province of Fukien (Fuijan) where it originates.
It is a tropical plant and is ideal as an indoor bonsai. It thrives in the hot humid conditions that you might find in kitchens but it needs to be protected from draughts.
Fukien Tea has small, dark green glossy leaves that grow on prolific shoots. Its dense foliage is easily pruned to your chosen bonsai style and wiring is not necessary. It produces minute white flowers that later form berries. If given the right conditions (heat and humidity) the flowers can be seen all year round.
It is easy to find Carmona in bonsai nurseries but it can be difficult to care for, particularly if you are a beginner. Below are some tips that will help you. If you are new to growing bonsai, you may want to do some research first, but do not be discouraged from experimenting.
Fukien Tea needs good light but it should be protected from continual direct sunlight. If kept indoors, ensure that the foliage does not get burnt by the sun coming through the glass windows. Only about one hour of direct sunlight is needed each day.
When growing outdoors, place in direct sunlight either in the morning or the afternoon, but not both.
Fukien Tea should be kept in the temperature range 15oC to 25oC. It can and should be placed outside during the summer months when the temperatures are hot. During this time, the transition from indoors to outdoors should be made carefully. Carmona does not like too much fluctuation in temperature.
Water regularly and using a humidity tray will help to ensure good humidity levels. Feed every two weeks from spring to autumn and then monthly during the winter with a low nitrogen feed.
Though Fukien Tea Bonsai may be a bit more difficult to grow than other plants, it can be a fun challenge to take on. The reward will be a unique bonsai plant which, when treated with care, will produce beauty and will last for a very long time.
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