jgreenlee
Newly Registered
Posts: 1
Joined: Wed Apr 22, 2009 12:45 pm
Location: deroit MI

Need help with new tree

A few days ago, a friend of mine forfeited a bonsai that he could no longer care for. Unfortunately, it wasn't well cared for recently, so I have taken the task of rebuilding it. I know its about 24 years old, but cant figure out what type it is. I have searched for hours looking for clues, so I figured id ask you. Here are some pictures iv attached. Note, leaves are very thick. The camera couldn't quite capture it.

https://s734.photobucket.com/albums/ww350/jgreenlee454/

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Gnome
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Posts: 5122
Joined: Wed Jul 05, 2006 12:17 am
Location: Western PA USDA Zone 6A

jgreenlee,

Welcome to the site, I think I can help you. Although the pictures are a bit out of focus it looks like Portulacaria afra, commonly called Baby Jade or Elephant bush. Compare it against this picture of one of mine.

[url=https://img126.imageshack.us/my.php?image=pagreennb1.jpg][img]https://img126.imageshack.us/img126/8003/pagreennb1.th.jpg[/img][/url]

Treat it as you would a Jade plant, allowing it too dry thoroughly between watering. I can't tell what the soil is like but if it needs re-potted a very gritty and loose mix is appropriate. This plant likes excellent drainage and infrequent but heavy watering. Full sun in summer after an acclimation period. Do not allow to freeze, all that water in the plant will burst the cells and when it thaws it will turn to mush.

Norm

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bonsaiboy
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Posts: 892
Joined: Fri Feb 09, 2007 8:54 pm
Location: Earth

Looks very much like this plant was overwaterd. I would replant it ASAP into a better draining soil medium. They also require bright light as well, so place it in a brightly-lit location.



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