The Large Flowering Tea Tree, also known as Fukien Tea (Carmona retusa), is a remarkable plant celebrated for its beauty and cultural significance. Originating from Southeast Asia, especially the Fujian Province in China, this evergreen shrub is admired for its elegant appearance and adaptability, making it a prized choice for both indoor and outdoor gardens.

Featuring glossy, dark green leaves and abundant clusters of small white flowers, the Large Flowering Tea Tree exudes classic charm. Each delicate bloom is subtly fragrant, adding a touch of grace to any setting. This shrub’s ability to produce flowers throughout the year, given the right conditions, makes it a favorite among gardeners and bonsai enthusiasts who seek a plant with continuous visual interest.

While the Large Flowering Tea Tree is primarily valued for its ornamental beauty, it also holds cultural significance. In regions where tea is a symbol of hospitality and refinement, this plant’s aesthetic value enhances its appeal. Although it’s not used for tea production like Camellia sinensis, its role in decorative and Asian-inspired gardens is well-recognized.

Successful cultivation of the Large Flowering Tea Tree involves understanding its environmental needs. It thrives in well-drained soil and requires regular watering to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. This species prefers bright, indirect light indoors or partial sunlight outdoors, making it versatile and adaptable to various growing conditions.

As a bonsai specimen, the Large Flowering Tea Tree demonstrates its versatility through thoughtful pruning and training. Its compact growth habit and small leaves are ideal for bonsai techniques, allowing enthusiasts to craft miniature landscapes that capture the essence of mature trees on a smaller scale. The tree’s natural form and small leaves make it a great candidate for various bonsai styles and techniques.

Beyond its visual appeal, the Large Flowering Tea Tree promotes mindfulness and well-being. Its presence in homes or offices serves as a reminder of nature’s tranquility and the importance of cultivating a peaceful environment. Caring for a bonsai or garden plant like this cultivar can be a meditative experience, fostering a deeper connection with nature.

For those looking to enhance their living or working space with a touch of natural elegance, the Large Flowering Tea Tree offers a perfect balance of beauty and functionality. Whether used as a standalone specimen or part of a larger garden or bonsai collection, this shrub adds a graceful touch and year-round interest to any environment.

In summary, the Large Flowering Tea Tree (Fukien Tea) stands out for its ornamental value and cultural importance. Whether appreciated for its delicate flowers, utilized in bonsai artistry, or valued for its calming presence, this shrub continues to captivate and inspire gardeners and enthusiasts worldwide. Its lasting popularity highlights its timeless appeal and the ongoing allure of botanical diversity in horticulture.

This impressive indoor tree, also known as the Carmona or Fukien Tea Bonsai tree, produces small white flowers and berries year-round when kept in the right climate. Each tree is meticulously trained into an “S” shape, showcasing the unique characteristics of this flowering bonsai.

Bonsai Specifications:
– Bonsai Tree Age: 7-9 Years
– Height: 13″ – 15″ Tall in Pot
– Pot: 10″ Ceramic Bonsai Pot
– Classification: Broadleaf Tropical
– Difficulty Level: Beginner