Botanic Garden >> Gardening > >> Question and Answer >> Identifying Unknown Plants

Bonsai Basics: Miniature Trees and Super Thrive

A user asks what type of plant is in a photo.

Plant Unknown

Expert Answer: The plant is a bonsai – a miniature tree originating in Japan, created by planting normal tree seeds in small pots to restrict growth. The expert recommends Super Thrive plant growth booster (1/4 tsp per gallon water), noting it's not a fertilizer substitute.

Identifying Unknown Plants: Yucca Plant Decline: Why Fertilizer Spikes Make It Worse; Preventing Bud Blast on Bonsai Gardenias: Temperature, Water, and Light Precision; Ceramic Ficus (Bonsai) Care: Watering, Pruning, and Fertilizing; Saving a Juniper Bonsai and Venus Flytrap; Bonsai Crisis: Unidentified Species, Dry Brittle Leaves—Need Photos to Save It; Rejuvenating Old Azalea for Bonsai: Fertilize First, Dig Later; Mystery Plant in Rocks: Not a Bonsai? Could Be Bamboo; Starting Bonsai from Seeds in Challenging Conditions; Bonsai: The Art of Miniature Trees in Containers; Bonsai Plant: Beginner Guide to Outdoor Growing and Tropical Options

Garden Articles

Gardenia Bonsai Pair: Yellow Leaves, Overwatering Suspected

ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia): The Nearly Indestructible Houseplant

Bonsai Plant Care Essentials: Water, Light, Temp & Fertilizer

Bonsai Techniques Masterclass: Pruning, Wiring, Shaping & Defoliation

Indoor Bonsai Species Guide: Best Trees for Home Cultivation

Bonsai Plant Food: Fertilizer Types, NPK Roles & Organic Advantages

Japanese Bonsai Plants: Native Species, Philosophy & Global Evolution

Plants

Reviving a Ming Aralia Bonsai After Overwatering and Repotting Mistakes

Aloe Vera Care: Watering Frequency and Propagating Pups

Plectranthus ernestii Bonsai: Care for Beginners

The Art of Bonsai: A Comprehensive Guide to Growing Miniature Trees

Bonsai Maintenance Fundamentals: Watering, Pruning, Repotting, and Seasonal Rhythms

Bonsai Fertilization Essentials: NPK Roles, Application Methods, and Seasonal Strategies

ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia): Care Guide for Stylish Low-Maintenance Plant