5 Types of Bonsai Trees That Are Perfect for Beginners 

I’ve already talked about bonsai trees on here before, so it will come as no surprise to you that I absolutely love them. If you ask me, they are much more than just plants. They are a form of art that brings a special sense of serenity and beauty into your home. However, the issue with bonsai trees is that they can be a bit overwhelming for gardening newbies. Don’t sweat it, though. Because there’s at least one variation out there that would thrive in your home, even if you aren’t blessed with a green thumb. So, here are 5 types of bonsai trees that are perfect, even for beginners.

Ficus Bonsai

Let’s start with an absolute classic — ficus trees. They are the plant version of the best friends you’ve always wanted – easygoing, reliable, and super forgiving. They’re one of the most popular choices for bonsai newbies, and for good reason. Ficus trees are incredibly hardy and can adapt to a variety of conditions. They’re perfectly happy indoors, making them ideal even for apartments.

But it’s not just their resistance that makes them so special. Their gorgeous, glossy leaves and their unique aerial roots, give them a tropical, exotic appearance. Just make sure to always place your Ficus in a spot where it can enjoy bright, indirect light. Water it regularly, but let the soil dry out a bit between waterings.

Juniper Bonsai

Next up, we have the Juniper – the rugged outdoorsman of the bonsai world. With its needle-like foliage and strong, sturdy trunk, the Juniper looks like a tiny tree straight out of a picturesque mountain landscape. As you can probably already guess, this adorable little plant thrives outdoors. Especially if you’re living in a sunny area.

The reason why Junipers are so perfect for beginners is because they can withstand a bit of neglect. The only thing that you have to keep in mind is that they prefer to be on the drier side, so don’t drown them in too much water. Let the soil dry out between waterings, and your Juniper will stay happy and healthy.

Chinese Elm Bonsai

If you’re looking for something that’s both beautiful and low-maintenance, the Chinese Elm is your go-to. These gorgeous plants have small, serrated leaves and a lovely, textured bark that adds character to any space. They are also incredibly adaptable and can thrive both indoors and outdoors.

Another great thing about them is that they are quite tolerant of pruning. So feel free to experiment with shaping your bonsai. Just make sure to place your Chinese Elm in bright, indirect light, and water it regularly to keep the soil moist but not soggy. With a bit of love and care, your Chinese Elm will flourish for many years to come.

Jade Bonsai

The Jade bonsai is perfect for anyone with a busy lifestyle or a tendency to forget about their plants. This succulent bonsai has thick, fleshy leaves that store water, making it extremely low-maintenance. Jade trees are another great option for apartment dwellers, as they love indoor settings. In addition to that, their minimalist, almost sculptural look makes them a chic addition to any room.

Just like with most other bonsai trees, make sure that you water your Jade sparingly and let the soil dry out completely between waterings. These trees are pretty resilient, so even if you forget to water them for a while, they’ll bounce back. Just be mindful not to overwater.

Dwarf Schefflera Bonsai

Last but certainly not least, we have the Dwarf Schefflera, also known as the Umbrella Tree. This tropical beauty has lush, green leaves that fan out like the spokes of an umbrella. Which gives this plant its unique and charming look. The Dwarf Schefflera is another fantastic choice for indoor bonsai enthusiasts.

These trees are very adaptable and low-maintenance, making them perfect for beginners. They thrive in bright, indirect light and love a bit of humidity. If you live in a dry climate, consider misting your Dwarf Schefflera occasionally to keep it happy. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, and avoid letting it sit in waterlogged soil.