The Flowering Tea Tree, also known as the Fujian Tea Tree or Fukien Tea (Carmona retusa), is a striking plant celebrated for its ornamental beauty and cultural significance. Hailing from Southeast Asia, especially the Fujian Province in China, this evergreen shrub is cherished worldwide for its delicate blossoms and versatile use as both a bonsai and a garden plant.

Featuring glossy, dark green leaves and clusters of small white flowers that bloom throughout the year, the Flowering Tea Tree exudes elegance and tranquility. Each flower, delicate and aromatic, adds a touch of charm to any indoor or outdoor space. The shrub’s continuous blooming ability under optimal conditions makes it a favorite among gardeners and bonsai enthusiasts who seek year-round visual interest.

Culturally, the Flowering Tea Tree holds special significance in regions where tea symbolizes hospitality and refinement. Although it is not used for tea production like Camellia sinensis, its decorative qualities make it a sought-after choice for Asian-inspired gardens and bonsai collections.

Proper cultivation of the Flowering Tea Tree involves understanding its environmental needs. It thrives in well-drained soil and requires regular watering to keep the soil moist without becoming waterlogged. This species prefers bright, indirect light indoors or partial sun outdoors, making it adaptable to various conditions with the right care.

As a bonsai specimen, the Flowering Tea Tree demonstrates versatility and resilience through meticulous pruning and training. Its compact form and small leaves are ideal for bonsai techniques, allowing enthusiasts to craft miniature landscapes that embody the essence of mature trees in a reduced space.

Beyond its visual appeal, the Flowering Tea Tree is valued for its ability to promote tranquility and mindfulness. Its presence in homes, offices, or gardens serves as a reminder of nature’s beauty and the importance of balance in daily life. Caring for this bonsai or garden plant can be a meditative practice, fostering a deeper connection with nature.

For those looking to enhance their living or working environment with natural elegance, the Flowering Tea Tree offers a blend of beauty and practicality. Whether displayed as a standalone piece or as part of a larger garden or bonsai collection, this shrub enhances its surroundings with its graceful form and year-round blooms.

In summary, the Flowering Tea Tree (Fujian/Fukien Tea) is distinguished not only for its ornamental value but also for its cultural and therapeutic benefits. Admired for its delicate flowers, utilized in bonsai artistry, or appreciated for its calming presence, this shrub continues to inspire and captivate enthusiasts globally. Its lasting popularity highlights its timeless appeal and the enduring allure of diverse botanical specimens in horticulture.

Among our popular offerings, the Carmona, Fujian, or Fukien Tea Tree shares similar characteristics with the Chinese Elm in terms of leaf and trunk features, but it stands out with its blooming white flowers. These blooms appear throughout the year, especially during spring and early winter. Each Fujian Tea Tree bonsai is meticulously trained to an “S” shape and pruned to highlight the unique leaf and branch traits of the tea tree.

Bonsai Specifications:
– Age: 5-7 Years Old
– Height: 10″ – 14″ Tall Potted
– Pot: 7″ Ceramic Bonsai Pot
– Classification: Broadleaf Tropical
– Level: Beginner