Summary
The Hawaiian Umbrella Tree comes in a dwarf version that makes a beautiful
bonsai. In fact, of all bonsai trees, this particular one is probably the
easiest to grow and maintain, making it perfect for beginners. Since the
Hawaiian Umbrella Trees can tolerate low light conditions, it is ideal for
indoor growth. Full of banyan roots, the leaves are miniature and shaped like
umbrellas, which together, form a beautiful, green, and dense canopy.
Proper Care
This particular bonsai needs to be watered well about every two to three days.
Although you do not need a green thumb to grow a Hawaiian Umbrella Tree, there
is a secret to success, which is never to allow the soil to dry completely. In
fact, experts recommend you soak the soil until it is thoroughly wet. When you
do water, allow enough water so it actually runs out of the container’s drain
holes. In addition to frequent watering, this bonsai tree also enjoys an
occasional misting.
For fertilizer, the Hawaiian Umbrella Tree should be fed in the springtime with
a good, all-around bonsai fertilizer. To maintain the shape of the tree, all you
need to do is provide an occasional pruning to keep the miniature shape.
Unfortunately, the Hawaiian Umbrella Tree is prone to both disease and insects.
Therefore, you should inspect your tree several times a week to look for
problems. In most cases, a good spray of the trunk is all you need to keep the
tree clean and healthy.
The soil for this tree should be acidic with a pH level between 5.6 and 6.0. In
addition, the soil should be mildly alkaline with a pH level of 7.6 to 7.8. When
the tree blooms, you will enjoy a magnificent red color, usually in late winter
and early spring, although it can bloom in mid spring as well. Keep in mind that
all parts of the Hawaiian Umbrella Tree are poisonous if ingested. Therefore,
you always want to keep the plant out of reach of pets and children. Finally,
you can propagate the Hawaiian Umbrella Tree with softwood cuttings and seeds,
which would need to be sown immediately, as they do not store well.
