Ardisia mamillata Bonsai Set

🌿 Ardisia mamillata, commonly known as Coralberry or Marlberry, is a tropical evergreen shrub from the Primulaceae family native to Central and South America. This beginner-friendly plant thrives in humid forest understories where dappled sunlight filters through the canopy. When trained as a bonsai, it develops a naturally compact form with dense branching that responds well to pruning and shaping. Fun fact: in its natural habitat, birds and small mammals disperse its bright red berries, contributing to forest regeneration across tropical ecosystems.
FOLIAGE AND GROWTH HABIT
This plant grows as a compact, bushy shrub with a naturally upright habit that adapts beautifully to bonsai training. The leaves are small, glossy, and deep green with a leathery texture that catches light wonderfully. Each leaf is oval-shaped with gently serrated edges, creating an elegant, refined appearance that suits traditional bonsai aesthetics. The foliage remains evergreen year-round, maintaining its rich colour even during winter months.
FLOWER DETAILS
Ardisia mamillata produces delicate, star-shaped flowers in soft pink or white clusters that appear along the stems. The blooms are lightly fragrant with a sweet, subtle scent that attracts pollinators. While not overly showy, the flowers add charm before transforming into the plant's signature bright red berries. Flowering typically occurs in spring and early summer under proper care conditions. To encourage blooming, provide consistent bright indirect light, maintain steady moisture levels, and allow the plant a brief rest period with slightly cooler temperatures in late winter.
CARE INSTRUCTIONS
🌞 Light: Bright indirect light or partial shade. Thrives with 4-6 hours of filtered sunlight daily. Avoid harsh direct sun which can scorch leaves.
💧 Water: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water when top inch feels dry, typically every 3-4 days in summer, weekly in winter. Bottom watering or gentle top watering works well.
🌡️ Humidity: Prefers 50-70% humidity. Benefits from regular misting or a humidity tray, especially during dry winter months.
🪴 Soil: Well-draining, slightly acidic mix. Combine standard potting soil with perlite and orchid bark for proper aeration.
🏺 Potting: Shallow ceramic or terracotta bonsai pot with drainage holes. Repot every 2-3 years in early spring to refresh soil and prune roots.
🌱 Growth rate: Slow to moderate. Expect 2-4 inches of growth over six months, 4-8 inches annually. Mature bonsai size typically 8-16 inches tall depending on training.
👩‍🌾 Fertilizing: Feed monthly during spring and summer with balanced liquid fertilizer at half strength. Reduce to every 6-8 weeks in fall and winter.
🐾 Pet friendly: No. The berries and leaves contain saponins which can cause gastrointestinal upset if ingested by cats or dogs. Keep out of reach of curious pets.
WHERE TO PUT IT
This bonsai thrives on bright windowsills in living rooms, home offices, or bedrooms where it receives plenty of natural light without direct sun exposure. It works beautifully on a side table near east or west-facing windows, or on shelves with supplemental grow lights. Display it where its sculptural form can be appreciated from multiple angles. Avoid placing it near heating vents, air conditioners, or drafty doorways where temperature fluctuations and dry air can stress the plant.
RARITY ASSESSMENT
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