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Luma apiculata
General information:
Luma is an evergreen shrub with creamy, exfoliating bark;
waxy, rounded,lemony scented leaves which grow to about one inch;
and small, white flowers which bloom in mid to late summer. The
mature plant will grow to about ten feet, and also makes an excellent
landscape plant. Although unknown in the East, and very recently
introduced into bonsai culture, Luma promises to be a highly
desirable plant for bonsai use due to its attractiveness, ease
of care, rapid trunk growth and good leaf reduction. It may be
a good starter plant for beginners because of its ability to
survive abuse.
Lighting:
Enjoys high light levels, which will cause it to grow more rapidly,
but puts out good, tight foliage even in the shade.
Temperature: Cold
hardy to about 15F. Will probably do well as an indoor plant.
Capable of survival in very high heat.
Watering:
Moderate, although nicely drought resistant. It can also take
high humidity.
Feeding:
Needs little fertilizer - once or twice monthly with liquid bonsai
fertilizer, or use of time-release fertilizer should do the trick.
Pruning and wiring:
Although styling practice for Luma is still quite experimental,
this plant promises to make an easy bonsai. The leaves reduce
readily, and the plant buds back profusely on old wood. Branches
ramify quickly and finely, making the plant a natural for shohin,
but the rapid trunk growth makes it also very suitable for large
bonsai. Luma's one drawback (if it could be called that) is its
rapid growth, which makes frequent pruning a must.
Propagation:
Roots readily from cuttings.
Repotting:
Not fussy about soils or ph - standard bonsai soil should work
nicely. No information was given on transplanting time, but in
spring, before active growth begins is usually a safe bet. Luma
roots very rapidly, and may need frequent repotting, every 1-2
years.
Pests and diseases:
No known pests, not even aphids or deer.
Information Sources:
Information on Luma is taken from posts
by members of the Internet Bonsai Club.
- Compiled by Sabrina Caine
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