Raising Serissa Bonsai

The Serissa bonsai is also referred to as the ‘tree of a thousand stars’. It derives this name from the fact that this particular tree has the ability to bloom generous amounts of white or pink flowers (depending on the specific variety) several times a year. It is also known by the names Snow Rose, Serissa Japonica and Japanese Boxthorn. Its full name is Serissa foetida and it is the only species of the plant family called Rubiaceae. Foetida literally means ‘foul-smelling’ and this particular tree emits a foul smell when the roots or bark are cut. Despite this minor inconvenience, the Serissa bonsai is one of the most popular indoor bonsai trees.

The Serissa bonsai is native to South East Asia in countries like Japan and China. It is however grown throughout the world. South East Asia has sub-tropical climate so this particular bonsai tree should preferably be grown indoors in places where temperatures fall below 7 degrees Celsius. It also makes a very attractive indoor plant due to its small size, attractive flowers, small thick leaves and interesting bark. It also grows surface roots that are quite unique. The Serissa bonsai can also do well as an outdoor bonsai tree in sub-tropical areas but must in all circumstances be protected from sudden drops in temperature.

Even though the Serissa bonsai is one of the more popular bonsai trees, it is also one of the more challenging varieties to take care of. It requires a great deal of care and patience. For this reason, this type of bonsai tree is suitable for experienced bonsai tree growers as beginners may become discouraged and disheartened by the amount of care the Serissa bonsai requires.

It is crucial to keep the climate and humidity conditions stable and as close to its natural environment conditions as possible. Any slight changes to the Serissa bonsai conditions may lead to yellowing of the leaves or shedding of both the leaves and the flowers.

This type of bonsai needs to be well watered but not drenched. The leaves are the best indicator as to whether the tree is getting adequate water. If the leaves become crispy and brown, this shows that it is not getting enough water. If the leaves turn yellow, this is an indicator that the bonsai tree is getting too much water. Indoor bonsai will require having the leaves misted regularly to ensure they are getting the right amount of humidity.

This bonsai also needs a lot of light to thrive. It is a good idea to put it outdoors for a month or so during the summer months if you are growing the Serissa as an indoor bonsai. Good lighting ensures that the Serissa flowers more often.

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