A decorative plant loved for its bright leaves and fluffy flowers that look like clouds of smoke.

Location

Smoketree likes sunny spots (it needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight a day). When
grown in the shade, the plant will not be as bright and abundant during flowering.

Soil

The plant is not demanding on soil quality and can grow in poor and alkaline soil, but
prefers slightly acidic or neutral soil with pH 6–7. A thick layer of drainage is required in
the container, as moisture stagnation or overwatering will lead to root rot and plant
death. The soil mixture is classic: Akadama + pumice + organic matter (see here).

Watering

Young plants require regular watering for good root development. Mature plants are
drought-resistant and require minimal watering.

Fertilizer

Feed with bonsai fertilizer. Apply once a month from March to September. Stop feeding
in the fall and winter months. Both liquid and granular fertilizers can be used (see here).

Transplanting

The best time to transplant Smoketree is in spring or fall. This should be done once
every 2–3 years. Root pruning should be moderate, as skumpia does not tolerate
aggressive transplanting well.

Shaping and pruning

Pruning is necessary to shape the crown and remove old or damaged branches. Pruning
is carried out in early spring before the start of sap flow and active growth. In summer,
young shoots are pinched to make the crown compact and branched. To give the shoots
curves, they can be carefully tied with wire, bearing in mind that they become brittle with
age and break easily.

Wintering

During the rest period (from October to the end of March), as for most bonsai, the
recommended temperature is 0 to +14 °C.

Diseases and pests

Aphids, spider mites – treatment with insecticides or soap solution is required.
Powdery mildew – improve ventilation, treat with fungicides.
Root rot – improve drainage, control watering.