Hi, Help required for a new bonsai carer.

3style

Luma apiculata


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General information: Luma is an evergreen shrub with creamy, exfoliating bark; waxy, rounded,lemony scented leaves which grow to about one inch; and small, white flowers which bloom in mid to late summer. The mature plant will grow to about ten feet, and also makes an excellent landscape plant. Although unknown in the East, and very recently introduced into bonsai culture, Luma promises to be a highly desirable plant for bonsai use due to its attractiveness, ease of care, rapid trunk growth and good leaf reduction. It may be a good starter plant for beginners because of its ability to survive abuse.

Lighting: Enjoys high light levels, which will cause it to grow more rapidly, but puts out good, tight foliage even in the shade.

Temperature: Cold hardy to about 15F. Will probably do well as an indoor plant. Capable of survival in very high heat.

Watering: Moderate, although nicely drought resistant. It can also take high humidity.

Feeding: Needs little fertilizer - once or twice monthly with liquid bonsai fertilizer, or use of time-release fertilizer should do the trick.

Pruning and wiring: Although styling practice for Luma is still quite experimental, this plant promises to make an easy bonsai. The leaves reduce readily, and the plant buds back profusely on old wood. Branches ramify quickly and finely, making the plant a natural for shohin, but the rapid trunk growth makes it also very suitable for large bonsai. Luma's one drawback (if it could be called that) is its rapid growth, which makes frequent pruning a must.

Propagation: Roots readily from cuttings.

Repotting: Not fussy about soils or ph - standard bonsai soil should work nicely. No information was given on transplanting time, but in spring, before active growth begins is usually a safe bet. Luma roots very rapidly, and may need frequent repotting, every 1-2 years.

Pests and diseases: No known pests, not even aphids or deer.

Information Sources:

Information on Luma is taken from posts by members of the Internet Bonsai


Call me silly but what exactly does "moderate" watering entail? It would be a great loss for me to lose my little tree so i dont want to overwater or underwater it. Thanks again