Source: Wikimedia Commons
Fukien Tea
IntermediateEhretia microphylla
Evergreen from southern China. Small glossy leaves, white flowers, and red berries. Tropical species popular worldwide as indoor bonsai. Trunk bark has unique texture.
Difficulty
Intermediate
Temperature
-5〜35℃
Lifespan
50+ years
Size
10-40cm (bonsai size)
Diet
Fertilizer (regular)
About
Carmona retusa (syn. Ehretia microphylla), commonly known as Fukien tea or Philippine tea (Fukken-cha in Japanese), is a small evergreen tree in the family Boraginaceae native to southern China (particularly Fujian Province), Taiwan, and Southeast Asia. It bears small, glossy, dark green leaves with slightly wavy margins and produces tiny white flowers throughout the year, followed by green berries that ripen through red to black. The naturally fine-textured foliage, abundant flowers and berries, and the ease with which its roots develop a dramatic flared base make it one of the most popular tropical bonsai species worldwide, particularly favored in Southeast Asian and Chinese bonsai traditions.
Basic Info
Origin
Southern China (Fujian Province), Taiwan, and Southeast Asia
Lifespan
50+ years
Size
10-40cm (bonsai size)
Temperature
-5〜35℃
Diet
Fertilizer (regular)
Care Guide
Placement
Bright indoor location. Maintain minimum 15°C temperature
Watering
Water when topsoil dries. Misting leaves is also effective
Styling
Build fine branching through pruning. Wire carefully
Notes
Cold sensitive. Drops leaves below 10°C
IntermediateEvergreenIndoorTropical
Fukien Tea FAQ
QHow difficult is it to keep Fukien Tea?
A
Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.
QWhat is the ideal temperature for Fukien Tea?
A
The ideal temperature for Fukien Tea is -5〜35℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
QWhat is the lifespan of Fukien Tea?
A
The average lifespan of Fukien Tea is 50+ years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Fukien Tea Q&A
Find listings for this species
