PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full to partial sunlight; tolerate light shade, but avoid prolonged deep shade to maintain healthy growth
Watering
Water thoroughly when the top 2–3 cm of soil is dry; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
Temperature
Thrives in 18–28°C; protect from frost temperatures below 10°C to avoid leaf damage
Characteristics
- Leaf: Bi-pinnate compound leaves with small oval leaflets that fold at night and during rainfall
- Flower: Creamy-white spherical inflorescences with a subtle sweet fragrance
- Stem/Bark: Thick, gnarled trunk with peeling brown-gray bark as it matures
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil evenly moist; increase watering frequency during hot, dry periods
Fertilization
Diluted balanced liquid fertilizer every 2 weeks. Avoid fertilizing during winter dormancy to prevent nutrient buildup
Eggshell powder topdress：Crush thoroughly washed eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle 1 teaspoon per pot every 3 months to boost soil calcium content and improve drainagePruning
- Trim new growth to maintain desired bonsai shape during spring and summer growing seasons
- Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
- Lightly prune roots during repotting every 2–3 years to control root bound growth
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: No reported toxicity to cats
Humans: No known toxic effects on humans
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Valued in bonsai culture for its adaptive growth and unique leaf-folding trait, symbolizing resilience
Usage: Bonsai specimen, ornamental garden tree in warm climates
