Streblus asper Bonsai Care guidelines
Streblus asper is native to tropical and subtropical regions, so it thrives in warm, humid environments. When growing Streblus asper as a bonsai, it is important to provide a suitable climate. If you live in a tropical or subtropical climate, Streblus asper can be grown outdoors year-round. It prefers temperatures between 18°C and 30°C (65°F to 85°F) and should not be exposed to frost. In temperate climates, Streblus asper can be grown indoors as a houseplant. However, it will need a bright location with plenty sunlight. If you live in an area with cold winters, bringing the tree indoors during the colder months is essential. It also benefits from higher humidity levels, so a humidity tray or regular misting can help mimic its native environment.
Streblus asper is relatively tolerant of varying moisture levels. Water the tree thoroughly when the top layer of soil feels slightly dry to the touch. The tree’s soil should be kept evenly moist but not soggy (using proper bonsai soil will prevent this from happening of course). Overwatering can lead to root rot, while underwatering can cause stress and slow growth. Continue reading about watering Bonsai trees.
Watering
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Watch Regular fertilization is essential for healthy growth, particularly during the growing season (spring and summer). Streblus asper benefits from a balanced, slow-release fertilizer with an NPK ratio of around 10-10-10. Liquid fertilizers can also be used every two to four weeks. In the dormant season (fall and winter), reduce the frequency of fertilization, as the tree’s growth slows down.
Streblus asper responds well to regular pruning, which helps maintain its compact size and encourages the development of finer branches. Pinching back the new growth in spring and summer will promote branching and create a fuller canopy. It is important to prune regularly, especially during the early stages of training, to encourage the desired shape. Continue reading about pruning Bonsai trees. Wiring is an essential part of shaping Streblus asper as a bonsai. The branches of this tree are flexible and can be wired into different positions to create movement in the trunk or branches. Be sure to check the wire regularly, as it can bite into the bark if left on too long.
During the growing season, regular repotting is advisable every 2-3 years to maintain healthy roots and ensure the tree does not become root-bound. Streblus asper prefers well-draining soil that retains some moisture without becoming waterlogged. A standard bonsai soil mix of Akadama, Pumice and Lava rock should be fine. Continue reading about repotting Bonsai trees.
The Streblus, or Bonsai Serut, can be propagated from seeds and cuttings.
Like many bonsai species, Streblus asper can be susceptible to common pests such as aphids, spider mites, and scale insects. Regular inspection and pest control measures, such as neem oil or insecticidal soap, can help keep these pests in check. Overwatering or poor drainage can lead to fungal problems, such as root rot or powdery mildew. Ensuring proper drainage and avoiding standing water in the pot will help prevent these issues. If Streblus asper is stressed due to changes in temperature, humidity, or light, it may drop leaves. Ensuring consistent care and a stable environment can minimize the risk of leaf drop. For more detailed information on these techniques, check out our Bonsai tree care section.
Streblus asper, Bonsai Serut, by Rully Pangalila
General information about the Serut Bonsai tree
Serut (Streblus asper) is a tropical tree or shrub with broad leaves that grows in Southeast Asia to the Indian peninsula. The serut tree can grow up to 15 m high, generally in lowlands in dry areas. Often when digging in nature serut grows in clusters, this is because new plants can grow from the roots. The leaves are shiny dark green with a rough textured back side, with an elongated oval shape, pointed tips with serrated outer sides and grow alternately with a size of 1 - 2 cm. The Bonsai Serut variety, which is a shrub, has much smaller leaves, only about 5 mm. The flowers are small and inconspicuous and the fruit is yellow when ripe. Serut is widely used as an ornamental plant in gardens by utilizing densely growing branches to be formed into "bonsai" in the style of pruned trees.
If you need help identifying your tree, take a look at our Bonsai tree identification guide.
