PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Bright indirect to partial direct sun; tolerate light shade, avoid intense midday sun to prevent leaf scorch
Watering
Allow the top 2 cm of soil to dry completely between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
Temperature
Thrives in 18–25°C; protect from frost below 10°C to prevent leaf damage
Characteristics
- Leaf: Small, oval, glossy dark green leaves with serrated margins; 1–2 cm long
- Flower: Tiny white, star-shaped blooms in clusters; lightly fragrant
- Fruit: Small orange-red drupes develop after flowering
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged
Fertilization
Diluted balanced liquid feed every 2 weeks. Avoid fertilizing in winter when growth slows
Eggshell powder topdress：Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly on soil surface and water in to release nutrients graduallyPruning
- Trim new growth regularly to maintain desired bonsai shape and density
- Remove dead, yellowing, or damaged leaves to improve airflow and appearance
- Pinch back terminal buds to encourage branching and denser foliage
- Prune overgrown branches in early spring before new growth emerges
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats with no reported adverse effects
Humans: No known toxic effects to humans
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Popular traditional bonsai subject in East Asian horticulture, valued for its compact growth
Usage: Bonsai cultivation, ornamental hedging, small garden shrub
