Loropetalum, also called strap flower in this country, is beautiful even when it grows unchecked. But growing it as a bonsai produces a crown shape that is exotically reminiscent of the Far East. The dark red foliage and pink flowers certainly make Loropetalum a particularly attractive mini plant!
How to care for a Loropetalum bonsai?
To care for a Loropetalum bonsai, cut young shoots after flowering, fertilize every two weeks, water when the surface dries, and repot every two to three years. Store in a bright and cool place (8-12 °C) in winter.
Buy trained bonsai
In order to grow a strap flower yourself as a bonsai, you need a lot of experience. It is easier to buy the plant as a finished bonsai. It will certainly not be one of the standard offerings in a normal garden center. But you can find one or two online shops that sell this plant.
Sticking with your education
A bonsai plant also sprouts vigorously in summer. If the scissors are not used regularly, the plant will quickly become out of shape.
- cut young shoots after flowering
- when they are about 4-5 cm long
- cut back to 2 to 3 leaves
- forming young branches by wiring
- Spread or tension older branches gently if necessary
Tip
If shape maintenance requires it, this bonsai can be cut back a little all year round.
Fertilizing and watering the mini plant
Fertilize the bonsai every two weeks during the vegetation phase with a commercially available liquid fertilizer for bonsai plants (€4.00 at Amazon). Increase the time interval in winter to many weeks.
Wait until the surface dries before watering again. If the moisture persists, root rot can quickly develop, which is detrimental to the entire plant. Therefore, make sure there is good drainage. On warm days, spray the foliage of the strap plant with water to promote its growth.
Repotting
Young bonsai trees should be repotted every two to three years. They also get a root cut. Older specimens make do with fresh soil every four to five years.
A few words about the location
Loropetalum is considered hardy if the thermometer shows values between 0 °C and -10 °C. But a potted plant is more sensitive in this regard. That's why the bonsai shouldn't stay outside all the time. In the main winter months it needs to hibernate indoors in a bright place with temperatures between 8 and 12 °C.
Provide the plant with water as needed even in winter.
