Fukien Tea (Carmona retusa or Ehretia microphylla) thrives best in warm, tropical, and subtropical climates.
Delicate white blossom bloom almost year round and small dark green leaves are shiny with little white dots on the surfaces which are often mistaken for insect infestations. The trunk has wonderful brownish red bark which contrasts beautifully with the dark green of its leaves.
Light:
Outdoors, place in a partially shaded spot, protected from scorching. Inside, Fukien Tea will do well in a bright window. Avoid direct midday sunlight to prevent your plant from drying out.
Watering:
Keep moderately moist and do not allow the root ball to dry out completely.
Temperature:
Thrives best in warm, tropical, and subtropical climates (USDA hardiness zones 10-11). It should not be exposed to temperatures below 50°F (10°C) for extended periods, as it is sensitive to cold. The Fukien Tea bonsai prefers high humidity levels, typical of tropical environments. If kept indoors maintain temperatures around 50 to 75 degrees and use a humidity tray or mist the plant regularly to increase humidity.
Fertilizing:
Fertilize this Bonsai every two weeks with a liquid bonsai fertilizer during the spring and summer. During the winter, if it is in a warmer location, feed every six weeks making absolutely sure it has been watered well before feeding to prevent burning the roots.
Pruning/Training:
Prune new shoots to 2 to 3 leaves once they have developed 6 to 8 leaves. This tree can be trained without wiring if done early but wiring can be done once the new shoots have become rigid and woody.
Insects/Pests:
Inspect leaves regularly for pests or fungus.us. If leaves turn yellow, are sticky or off coloe and or you see spider webs that is an indication of an insect problem. Spray the entire plant down with a mixture of 1 tsp dish soap to 1 quart lukewarm water to create run-off, repeat as needed.
Propagation:
Use clean sharp scissors to take cuttings from the Fulien Tea between spring and early summer. Place cuttings in a shady spot to encourage healthy root development.
Repotting:
Every two years in the spring. No more than 10% root cutting.
Availability:
Stop in during store hours or call ahead for availablity. Supply is limited and sold on a first come first served basis.
Payment:
We accept cash, check and most debit/credit cards. Payment is collected at the time of purchase and can be made in-store or by phone for pre-orders. Please have a valid form of photo id if using a check or debit/credit card.
Pre-orders:
For pre-orders, payment can be made over the phone. Your receipt will be emailed to you. You will be notified when your order is available for pickup. If you've made shipping or delivery arrangements you will be notified when to expect your items.
In-store Pickup:
Please have a copy of your receipt with you at the time of pickup.
Delivery/Shipping:
We provide delivery and shipping for an additional fee. Delivery/shipping can be requested by completing our contact form online, or by calling or email us directly. All requestes for delivery/shipping may not be possible, but will do our best to fulfill each request. Contact us for pricing and scheduling.