Elephant Tree bonsai care

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Elephant tree bonsai has the potential of making a stunning medium size bonsai (chuhin).

It is also known as fragrant bursera and is a small evergreen tree or a succulent shrub which has an upright spreading growth habit.

The tree has tiny bluish green leaves which look very attractive. In addition, the tree produces small berries around its base that are light blue to gray in color.

It is easier to see the fruit in the colder months when the tree drops its leaves. Also, the tree’s sculptural qualities are enhanced by the absence of foliage during the winter months.

An elephant tree has a stunning light brown trunk that is stocky and swollen with flaky bark that gives the tree a feeling of age even from a young age.

Best location to keep Elephant Tree Bonsai

An adequate amount of bright light is essential for growing Bursera fagaroides bonsai tree.

Summer is the best time to place the bonsai container outdoors for maximum growth.

During spring and summer, 70°F to 85°F (21 to 29°C) is the ideal temperature.

In indoor settings, it is highly recommended to use grow-lights if western or southern windows with plenty of sunlight exposure are not available.

In the fall and winter, the ideal temperature range for elephant tree bonsai is 55°F to 60°F (12 to 15°C).

As a result, the tree will develop bronze to yellow leaf color in the fall and transform into a beautiful defoliated state in the winter.

Despite being a strong plant, it doesn’t like freezing temperatures. Protect the plant from freezing temperatures.

Refer sunlight requirements for indoor plants for more indoor gardening ideas. Also, refer to do bonsai trees need sunlight for more indoor and outdoor bonsai location ideas.

Propagation of Elephant Tree

It is possible to grow Elephant Trees from cuttings or seeds.

You can also propagate it by using root division. Separate a part of its tuberous root and plant it in the soil in spring or early summer. In about 3 weeks the root will start germinating leaves.

However, when propagated via seeds, the plant produced will have a more appealing root system. The roots will gradually expose themselves as the plant matures.

This tree also has the ability of replicating the traits of the parent plant (bumpy trunk structure) from which the seedlings are taken.

Watering Elephant Tree Bonsai

Elephant tree is drought tolerant. Elephant Trees can go for long periods without water.

Water the bonsai regularly, however wait for the bonsai soil to become a little dry to the touch between the watering sessions.

During winter, reduce the watering frequency. You can let the soil dry.

Read watering bonsai tree for more details.

Wiring Elephant Tree Bonsai

Wiring this tree requires extreme caution because the branches are extremely brittle.

Wire the tree gently by adding subtle bending and movement.

Pruning Elephant Tree Bonsai

When to prune Elephant Tree bonsai?

How to prune Elephant Tree bonsai?

Elephant tree responds well to pruning. Pruning this bonsai is easy.

For a fuller shape and control of the tree’s size, trim the main branches by one-fourth in spring.

When the tree is in its active growth stage, let the branches grow. Then, prune the shoots except for the shoot pointing in the direction where you want the branch to extend.

Elephant Bonsai tree grows short lateral stems from its main branches.

The look and the structure of these branches is such that the bonsai grower doesn’t have to do a lot of work for shaping of the bonsai style.

Make the trunk of your elephant tree appear more visible and attractive by pruning off any unwanted side shoots or crossed branches.

Pinching Elephant Tree Bonsai

Cutting back or pinching the tender new leaves of this tree is not necessary.

Repotting Elephant Tree Bonsai

When to repot Elephant Tree bonsai?

Bursera fagaroides bonsai tree can be repotted every 5-6 years. This is because the roots of the plant takes a lot of time to completely occupy the bonsai pot.

Repotting can be done in summer.

You can use a fast free-draining, bonsai soil mix. This will prevent water-logging in case the plant is over-watered and hence will prevent root rot.

Avoid using organic matter in the soil mix. Not using organic material will slow down the breakdown of the soil and extend the life of the soil. Also it will reduce the water retention.

Must Read: Bonsai Soil Recipes

Must read : Choosing the right bonsai container

Feeding Elephant Tree Bonsai

Apply half-strength well balanced fertilizer weekly or biweekly when the tree is actively growing.

The fertilization frequency should be reduced to every three weeks in the fall and winter if temperatures are kept above 55°F (12°C) degrees.

When the tree goes dormant, stop applying feed.

Read more about applying fertilizer to bonsai in bonsai fertilizer and its application.

Diseases and pest of Elephant Tree Bonsai

There are few problems with insects. If the roots are kept cool and wet, they can become prone to root diseases.

Elephant Tree bonsai care

Once the desired height of the bonsai tree is attained, then start pruning. This will promote side branching and lateral limb development.

Stress can be identified by dropped foliage in summer, cracks in the trunk, and lack of vigor in general.

You should stop watering if your tree’s trunk develops cracks or if the soil feels wet a few days after you’ve watered it.

Having yellow leaves or summer leaf drop indicates nutrient imbalance, so stop feeding the plant at this time.

In the event that temperatures drop below 30°F (-1°C), it is recommended to cover young elephant trees.

Cover your elephant tree with burlap or a lightweight, breathable cloth instead of impermeable materials like plastic.