What kind of tree is Premna obtusifolia? An introduction to an excellent bonsai species

People who love flowers, trees and bonsai are people of refined taste

Premna obtusifolia, also known as stinking premna, Qia niangzi, pretty niangzi, stinking yellow vitex, niuguzai, houkezai, small-leaved fish stinkwood, and tofu wood; the main bonsai variety in Taiwan, China is the small-leaved Premna obtusifolia (Premna obtusifolia R. Br.). It is easy to cultivate and shape in pot culture; its branches are fine and not prone to withering, and it is inexpensive, making it a top-choice species for small bonsai.

Stinking premna is a common plant among island coral reef rocks. Because it grows quickly and has the characteristics of drought tolerance, wind resistance and tolerance of poor soil, it can be used for windbreak forests and hedges.

Also because it grows quickly, has fine leaves, green foliage, and hard wood that can be carved with thread carving, and because mountain-collected material often comes with deadwood, it is also an excellent species for bonsai.

The leaves can be made into tofu; the roots, stems and leaves are used as medicine to clear heat and detoxify, reduce swelling and stop bleeding, and to treat malaria, diarrhea and dysentery, carbuncles and swellings, boils, and traumatic bleeding

Premna obtusifolia is a dual-purpose tree species. What is a dual-purpose tree species? It means that it can be exhibited and appreciated both with leaves and with bare branches. Whether with leaves or bare branches, it is extremely beautiful, but beauty has its price. In spring and summer it is very labor-intensive, because it grows extremely fast. About two weeks after being potted in a finished pot, every branch and bud on the whole plant needs to be pruned once. This is the fatal weakness of Premna obtusifolia. It is suggested that tree lovers who like Premna obtusifolia should choose better material and then reduce its quantity so they can enjoy it happily and care for it beautifully.

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