SERISSA FOETIDA

Stymie · Posted: Tue Jan 02, 2007 2:04 pm Post subject: SERISSA FOETIDA

Serissa aka (Tree of a thousand stars or Snow Rose)
You will notice many posts about this tree from people having problems settling them in. This is quite common, they don't enjoy being moved. They are usually propagated in heated greenhouses which combine strong lighting, humidity and warmth. The trick is to try to duplicate these conditions in their new home.
Give them the brightest position available and maintain a temperature no lower than 12C (54F) even in winter. Mist the leaves when not in direct sunshine with tepid water. This will help to keep up the humidity as also will keeping them on a wide tray which can hold some damp grit or pebbles. The moisture in the tray will evaporate slowly and form a humid space around the tree. Don't let the pot actually come into contact with the water as it may wick up into the planting medium and give rise to root rot.
Avoid draughts of any kind and keep away from sources of heat. Don't move them from room to room when they have become settled. Some people have found that the moisture in the air of kitchens and bathrooms suits them. Registered members should read Dick's post about them in our 'A-Z' forum. Do not be alarmed by the smell when they are pruned. This is natural to the species as the latin name implies.
If newcomers to bonsai are thinking of getting one as their first tree, I would advise them to consider another species in favour of Serissa.