Scorpion Bush

Basic Information

Common Name: Scorpion Bush

Scientific Name: Carmona retusa

Native Habitat: Southeast Asia, Southern China, Australia

History / Discovery / Cultivator

Carmona retusa, commonly known as the Scorpion Bush, Fukien Tea Tree, or Philippine Tea Tree, boasts a history deeply intertwined with its native Southeast Asian origins. While the precise “discovery” in a scientific context remains somewhat elusive, its utilization and appreciation within the region predate modern botanical classification. For centuries, indigenous populations across Southeast Asia, Southern China, and even parts of Australia have recognized the plant’s inherent value, utilizing it for both practical and ornamental purposes.

The plant’s use extends beyond mere aesthetics. Traditional medicine practices in some areas have incorporated Carmona retusa for its potential therapeutic properties, although specific applications and efficacy remain subjects of further scientific investigation. Its robust nature and relative ease of cultivation have also contributed to its widespread presence in gardens and landscapes across its native range.

The “cultivator” aspect of the Scorpion Bush’s history is less about a single individual and more about generations of gardeners and plant enthusiasts who have propagated and refined its cultivation techniques. In China, the plant, often referred to by its local names, holds cultural significance and is frequently used in bonsai artistry. Its small leaves, textured bark, and tendency to develop interesting trunk shapes make it an ideal subject for miniature landscapes.

The journey of Carmona retusa beyond its native lands likely began through the horticultural trade. Plant explorers and botanists, particularly during the colonial era, documented and collected specimens from various parts of the world, including Southeast Asia. These expeditions facilitated the introduction of new species, like the Scorpion Bush, to Europe and other regions.

Over time, Carmona retusa gained popularity as an indoor bonsai subject and a small ornamental shrub. Its adaptability to indoor conditions, coupled with its attractive foliage and relatively slow growth rate, made it a favored choice for enthusiasts seeking a manageable and aesthetically pleasing plant. Today, the Scorpion Bush is cultivated worldwide, both as a bonsai specimen and as an ornamental plant, testament to its enduring appeal and the continuous efforts of gardeners and plant collectors to propagate and showcase its unique characteristics. Its journey from the forests of Southeast Asia to homes and gardens around the world reflects a story of botanical exploration, cultural appreciation, and the enduring human fascination with the natural world. The ease with which it can be trained, along with its resilience, contributes to its continuing popularity.

Plant Care Summary

Botanical Insights

Adaptations

Carmona retusa exhibits several adaptations that allow it to thrive in its native environment and as a houseplant. Its small, thick, glossy leaves reduce water loss through transpiration, making it relatively drought-tolerant. The textured bark provides protection against environmental stressors, such as extreme temperatures and physical damage. As a plant suited to subtropical and tropical climates, it prefers moderate to high humidity, which helps maintain healthy foliage. Its compact growth habit and ability to tolerate pruning make it well-suited for bonsai cultivation and indoor environments. The plant’s ability to flower and produce small, red berries also attracts pollinators and seed-dispersing animals in its natural habitat, ensuring its continued propagation.

Propagation Methods

Carmona retusa can be propagated through several methods:

• Stem Cuttings: The most common method. Take semi-hardwood cuttings in spring or summer, dip in rooting hormone, and plant in a well-draining medium. Maintain humidity and warmth until roots develop.
• Seed: Seeds can be collected from mature berries, but germination rates can be variable. Sow seeds in a well-draining mix and keep moist until germination.
• Air Layering: A more advanced technique that involves inducing roots to form on a branch while it is still attached to the parent plant. Once roots have developed, the branch can be severed and planted as a new plant.

Toxicology

Carmona retusa is considered mildly toxic if ingested. The plant contains compounds that can cause oral irritation, including redness, swelling, and discomfort. In humans, ingestion may lead to a burning sensation in the mouth and throat, as well as mild gastrointestinal upset. In pets, such as cats and dogs, ingestion can result in similar symptoms, including drooling, pawing at the mouth, and vomiting. While the toxicity is generally mild, it is advisable to keep Carmona retusa out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion. If ingestion occurs, rinse the mouth thoroughly with water and seek medical or veterinary advice if symptoms persist.

Common Problems

Pests:

• Spider mites
• Aphids
• Mealybugs

Diseases:

• Root rot (due to overwatering)
• Leaf spot (fungal)

Other:

• Leaf yellowing (due to nutrient deficiency or overwatering)
• Leaf drop (due to sudden changes in temperature or humidity)
• Stunted growth (due to insufficient light or fertilizer)

Rarity & Value

Rarity:

Carmona retusa is not generally considered a rare plant. It is widely cultivated and available in nurseries and garden centers, particularly in regions with suitable climates. However, exceptionally well-trained bonsai specimens or those with unique characteristics (e.g., unusual trunk shapes, abundant flowering) may be less common and command higher prices. In some areas, specific cultivars or variations of Carmona retusa might be more difficult to find, contributing to a perception of rarity.

Value:

Several factors influence the value of a Carmona retusa specimen:

• Size and Age: Larger, more mature plants with well-developed trunks and branching structures typically command higher prices. Older bonsai specimens that have undergone years of training are particularly valuable.
• Bonsai Training: The quality of bonsai training, including trunk shape, branch placement, and root presentation, significantly affects the value. Well-trained specimens that exhibit artistic merit are highly sought after.
• Health and Vigor: A healthy and vigorous plant with lush foliage and a strong root system is more valuable than a stressed or diseased specimen.
• Container: The container in which the plant is grown can also influence its value, especially for bonsai specimens. High-quality, aesthetically pleasing containers enhance the overall presentation and increase the plant’s appeal to collectors.
• Rarity of Features: Variations within the species itself that are hard to come by could make the plant more valuable.