Semi-cascade Fukien Tea | Medium-grade exposed root bonsai, currently fruiting.

The Fukien Tea tree, also known as the Chinese Boxwood or Carmona retusa, is an evergreen plant. It is native to the coastal regions of Fujian province, earning its name from its resemblance to tea leaves, though it is unrelated to the tea plant in the Camellia family. It thrives in full sun and warm environments. The Fukien Tea tree is a robust species, known for its strong growth habit. It tolerates pruning exceptionally well and has a vigorous ability to sprout. Its leaves are glossy and slightly thick. It flowers and fruits easily, even self-pollinating. When the branches are well-developed, the tree produces an abundance of fruit. The fruit stems extend outwards, giving the ripe fruit a slightly pendulous appearance. Shiny green fruits gradually ripen into semi-translucent red berries, making it a classic subject for bonsai. When the Fukien Tea tree flowers and fruits, its growth naturally slows. This can delay the artistic development of its shape. This particular specimen has been nurtured and shaped by designers for approximately eight years. During this time, flower buds were removed, and axillary buds and overly vigorous shoots were regularly pruned to encourage branching and develop the canopy structure. It is now about 80% formed, and has only recently been allowed to flower and fruit this year. Creating traditional bonsai requires time and dedication. Species chosen are typically those with strong growth and ease of care. Furthermore, selecting a trunk with unique, irreplaceable characteristics is paramount. This bonsai has been cultivated in its pot for 20 years, meticulously shaped. Its exposed root system is unconventional and powerfully rugged, exuding an exceptional presence. From the exposed roots and trunk, extending to the main branches, the design transitions from intricate, filigree-like branch structure connecting to the thick trunk, harmoniously flowing into the main branches, and then extending to the delicate, trailing branchlets. The progression from thick to fine, with a sense of natural flow, is the result of years of careful pruning and cultivation. The lines beneath the main trunk are a key focal point for appreciation. Irreplaceable, difficult to replicate, and utterly unique – these are the hallmarks of a select bonsai specimen. /In Stock/ Photos 1-10 taken on May 30, 2025. The character and aged appearance of the trunk are the critical elements for a bonsai tree. After documenting with half of the red fruits, they will be removed. Pruning will continue to actively cultivate the next generation of branches and canopy. The artistry of bonsai lies in its development process. Acquiring a bonsai that has already undergone shaping and construction of its canopy requires attention to sunlight exposure. Maintenance is simple, involving only watering and pruning. Commercially available slow-release fertilizer is sufficient. Management is straightforward. Fukien Tea /Cultivation Difficulty/ ★★☆☆☆ /Fertilizer Needs/ ★★☆☆☆ /Pest Sensitivity/ ★☆☆☆☆ --------------------------------------------------------------------------- Sunlight Exposure | Approximately 5+ hours of direct sunlight. Sunlight must reach the plant itself to count. Watering Routine | While enjoying this beautiful plant, water it daily at a set time. Soil Medium | Japanese Akadama soil (granule soil). --------------------------------------------------------------------------- A miniature landscape healing bonsai with small leaves. The extension and flow of each plant's growth are unique, making unified design impossible. Each plant is one of a kind. (Decorative objects and stands are not included with the product.)