The Brazilian Rain Tree (Pithecellobium tortum) is native to the rainforests of Brazil. One of the unique features of this hardwood species is that the leaves curl up in the evening and open up when the sun comes out. It also has white or pink flowers with a pleasant fragrance. Although it will tolerate dry conditions for short spells, it prefers evenly moist soil.
The Brazilian Rainforest Tree loves lots of sunlight and can be kept outside as long as the temperature stays above 8° celsius. When in a Bonsai pot, it is best to protect it from mid-day sun in a bit of shade, but direct morning and afternoon sun if possible.
The Brazilian Rainforest Tree thrives in heat and light. When grown indoors, it needs 8 hours of direct sunlight a day to thrive. This tree will almost certainly need a grow light to supplement light unless placed in a large south-facing window.
Watering: Keep the root ball moist without letting it dry out completely. If using a moisture meter, try to maintain at least 30% moisture. The Brazilian Rainforest Tree will also benefit from regular misting and a humidity tray.
Fertilizing:
Pruning: The Brazilian Rainforest Tree can withstand pruning but always leave a nub when pruning branches as some die-back might occur. Although the Brazilian Rainforest Tree can be wired, it is easier to shape using guy wires.
Repotting: it is recommended to be repotted every two years in the Spring or early summer. Older Bonsai can go three to four years between repotting. Trim the root ball only on the edges.
YOUNG: 6" - 12" tall, comes in a 6" grower's pot.
SHOHIN MATURE: 6"-12" tall, comes in a 5" handmade ceramic pot.
MATURE: 8" - 16" tall, comes in an 8" handmade ceramic pot.
Plants arrived. Well packaged and in great shape. As expected most of the leaves on all three Brazilian rain tree plants fell off but am certain they will come back. Love the plants. great Canadian retail store, ,,,will buy from them again as they receive different species. Highly recommended! Thank you,
Sure, it's got many decades to go before it reaches its full glory, but that's the whole idea, innit? The tree arrived healthy and in excellent shape, very well packed, and the shipper was very quick and reliable (we sometimes have to chase couriers for days, this one was left right on our back step as requested....)
It’s coming to two years now since I bought this so I think it’s time to give out a review. It was shipped in great condition. And has been growing vigorously since I got it. It hasn’t been potted in a bosai pot yet as I want it to thicken up a bit more. I just wished I got one with a good nebari though best I can describe it one side goes into the tree instead of spreading out but that’s just part of growing plants though that I’ll need to fix.
Arrived in perfect condition ! Growing beautifully! Love this !!!
Love my first Brazilian rain tree! As a native from Brazil I was surprised they even had bonsai of this. So happy!
