How to Care for Your Fukien Tea Bonsai
How to care for your Fukien Tea Bonsai
Our tips for helping it grow healthy and strong
The Fukien Tea, also known as Carmona s-shape, is a charming shrub native to East Asia. In our company, we consider it an excellent choice for anyone looking for an elegant bonsai full of character. Its beauty lies in its glossy leaves and small white flowers, which may appear throughout the year.
The right spot
The Fukien Tea prefers bright but indirect light. It’s important to place it in a well-lit spot, protected from direct sunlight, which could damage the leaves. A medium-to-high light environment is ideal for its well-being.
When and how to water it
In summer, we recommend watering the Fukien Tea every 3 days, while in winter, every 7 days is sufficient. Make sure the soil stays evenly moist, avoiding waterlogging. Check the soil moisture with your finger to make sure it isn’t too dry or too wet.
Temperature and humidity
The Fukien Tea thrives in temperatures between 15°C and 25°C, but can tolerate a wider range from 10°C to 30°C. It likes high humidity, between 50% and 70%, so it’s helpful to keep the environment humid, perhaps with the help of a humidifier.
The right fertilizer
During spring and summer, fertilize the Fukien Tea every 30 days with a balanced liquid fertilizer. This will help the plant maintain its vitality and promote healthy growth.
The pot and soil
Fukien Tea needs well-drained soil made up of peat, sand, and perlite. This mix ensures good drainage and an adequate supply of nutrients. Repot when needed, preferably in spring.
A bonsai needs extra care
As a bonsai, Fukien Tea needs regular pruning to maintain its characteristic shape. Use aluminum wire to shape the branches to your liking, but be careful not to damage the bark.
How to propagate it
Fukien Tea is propagated by cuttings, a moderately difficult method. Take cuttings in spring to ensure the best chance of success.
Our final tip
Caring for a Fukien Tea is a rewarding experience that requires attention and dedication. Remember to observe your plant with affection and adapt its care to its specific needs. With the right love, your bonsai will reward you with beauty and serenity.
— The Gardens of Giulia
Verified care information
This information comes directly from the validated botanical profile used to generate the guide.
- Light
- medium-high · Bright but indirect light
- Watering
- Every 3 days in summer · every 7 days in winter · Water evenly, avoiding waterlogging · Check the soil moisture with your finger
- Temperature
- 15 °C ideal minimum · 25 °C ideal maximum · 10 °C minimum tolerated · 30 °C maximum tolerated
- Humidity
- high · 50% minimum · 70% maximum
- Fertilizing
- balanced liquid fertilizer · spring-summer · every 30 days
- Propagation
- cuttings · moderate · Take cuttings in spring
- Bonsai care
- Use aluminum wire for shaping