Coiled Trunk Ficus No. 3

This coiled trunk ficus makes a striking, low-maintenance bonsai. The tight coil at the base is trained into the trunk while it's still young and flexible, and it's a shape few species tolerate as well as ficus does. This is a Ficus benjamina 'Orientalis', a selection of the weeping fig with narrower, glossier leaves and tighter growth than the standard form. Native to South and Southeast Asia, ficus adapts well to indoor life, which is a big part of why it's such a common entry point into bonsai. One thing to expect: benjamina is sensitive to change. It may drop leaves after it moves to your house, then push new growth suited to its new spot. That's normal, not a crisis; pick a bright location and leave it there. As a small bonsai in a 6" container, it will dry out faster than it would in the ground. Check soil moisture every 1-2 days rather than watering on a fixed schedule, and feed regularly during active growth. Keep it above 50F; unlike more cold-hardy species, ficus should come indoors before temperatures drop. It's a tree that asks very little and still holds your eye--a good one to live with while you're learning what bonsai actually requires of you. Scientific Name Ficus benjamina 'Orientalis' Container 6" Unglazed Height 13" Watering Water daily while outdoors during the growing season. Less water is required during the winter months. Do not let the soil dry out. Repotting Every two to three years in early to late-spring.