Fukien Tea Tree

Fukien Tea Tree (Ehretia Monopyrena-Microphylla) Botanical Name: Ehretia Monopyrena / Microphylla Also known as: Philippine Tea Tree Fukien Tea Tree Fujian Tea Wild Tea Tsaang Gubat Chaang Bundok Fukien Tea Tree is a tropical shrub. Fukien Tea Tree (Ehretia Monopyrena Microphylla) is quite popular in South-east Asia, from China, Sri Lanka and India. it is said to be native to Fujian province of China or to north Philippines. It is traditionally used as tea and medicine. But even though its popularity as a tea it is more commonly known as a ornamental shrub. Its neat look, tiny shiny leaves, easy maintance and hight ability for shaping by cutting, made it famous as a garden and park plant in tropics, and bonsai type houseplant around the world. Fukien Tea Tree is quite popular as a medicinal herb in The Philippines, where it was promoted by Department of Health, and is one of those herbs for which demand on markets far exceeds the production. Known as the indigenous drink of their ancestors. Fukien Tea is also known under latin name Carmona retusa, Baapanaburi in India, Ji Ju Shu in China, Scorpionbush in Australia, Kinangan in Indonesia, Fukumangi in Japan, Khoi Cheen in Thailand. Fukien Tea Tree is a evergreen shrub with weeping branches, that can reach up to 4m high and same in diameter. It grows wild both in wet thickets, forests and dry open spaces in tropical regions of South-east Asia and Australasia. It requires full sun or partial shade and thrives in high temperatures and humidity but is quite drought resistant. Ehretia microphylla does not tolerate temperatures lower than 0’C, but is well known for being easy to grow as a houseplant in temperate regions, and is one of the most popular plants in the world, for forming into bonsai. It is perfect plant for cutting and creative shaping into fancy shrubs and live fences, with its thick nature and nice little, glossy leaves. It has tiny white flowers and orange berries. Whole steems with leaves can be gathered at any time, to be used fresh or to dry. Fresh, well chopped leaves can be boiled for around 15 minutes, or dried crushed leaves can be prepared in a way as green tea, to make refreshing, caffeine-free drink, delightfull both hot and cold. Its tiny stony berry fruits are edible. Care and Growth: During summer season or when the temperature is above 45°C place the plant in shaded area. During winter season or when the temperature is below 45°C the plants can be directly placed in direct/indirect sunlight. During summer, Water daily or when the soil starts to become slightly dry at the top. During Winter season water once in 2 days or when the soil starts to become slightly dry at the top. Keep the soil lightly moist at all times, but do not overwater as this will cause brown spots and leaf drop. Curly or dry leaves suggest, the plant is dry and needs watering. Water in the early morning or late evening when temperatures are cooler. Always check your soil before watering. Apply liquid fertilizer or slow release fertilizer once in 15 days. Always fertilizer the plants during the morning hours when the temperature is low. For best results use outdoor plant food / flower booster.