
Acid loving tree related to the camelia. Most common bonsai varieties are "monadelpha" and "pseudocamellia".
Despite bearing large white flowers and spectacular autumn foliage, the most striking aspect of this tree is its shiny, copper-brown bark. Winter image is much treasured.
STYLE : Best suited to formal upright or group.
WARNING : Delicate bark scars easily from wiring. If pruning scars properly hollowed and sealed they will heal invisibly. If not they will leave ugly lumps.
Care Info
REPOT : Every 2-3 years depending on age, in mid early spring.
SOIL : Ericaceous, free draining soil : 20:80 grit:organic.
PRUNE : Design by pruning rather than wiring. Branch prune in early spring before buds appear.
PINCH : Trim new growth continually to 1 or 2 leaves to create or maintain shape.
WATER : Daily in summer, using rainwater to avoid any lime contamination.Do not allow to dry out.
FEED : Two weekly ericaceous feed during growing season, low nitrogen in autumn.
WARNING : Delicate bark scars easily from wiring. If pruning scars properly hollowed and sealed they will heal invisibly. If not they will leave ugly lumps.
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