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Ficus Retusa

It is a wide genus, which includes hundreds of species with many characteristics. Most of these trees are native to the tropical forests of south-eastern Asia. Many people know Ficus elastica, (India-rubber tree for English people) as indoor plant. However the smaller species are better for bonsai growing. Ficus retusa, with straight branches, and Ficus benjamina, with weeping branches, are the two species used for bonsai growing in Europe and in northern America. In the warmer Australian climate it is possible to grow a greater variety of species, such as Ficus macrophylla, Ficus rubiginosa and Ficus platypoda.

It does not stand bright light, but it needs high temperature, no lower than 15°C. Shelter it from dry weather, avoiding sudden changes of temperature and soil moisture.

Copious watering during the vegetative season, more moderate in winter, especially if the tree is growing in little light (as for indoor bonsai trees with room normal lighting). Check every day the soil to be sure it is always wet.
As the tree loves humidity, water often the foliage.

Every two weeks during the whole vegetative season.

In alternate years, in spring, using base mould.

Poll the new buds to 2-3 leaves during the whole vegetative season, save when it is necessary to let them grow. The strongest trees stand well a complete trimming in summer. Latex comes out from any cuts, so it is better to prune it in winter and treat the wounds with sealants. You can wire it in every period.

By semi-wooden cuttings in summer. By layers in spring.

It can be grown in every style and size, but the small leave forms are better for reduced sizes.

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