African Bonsai – Trichodiadema bulbosum

Meet one of the most unique and rare bonsai specimens in the plant world! Native to South Africa, the African Bonsai—Trichodiadema bulbosum—is a striking succulent bonsai prized for its bulbous, caudex-style base, which stores water and gives it an ancient, tree-like appearance. This plant beautifully blends the structural elegance of bonsai with the resilience of a desert succulent.

Available in:

Rectangular decorative container -Comes in decorative Bonsai dish including pebbles. Size 6.5" x 4.7" x 2.35"     

Its textured, thickened trunk develops naturally over time, giving it an aged, rugged aesthetic, while the small, spiky green leaves resemble tiny pine needles. With proper care, it may even reward you with vibrant daisy-like purple blooms in the spring or summer.

☀️ Light Requirements:

• Loves bright, direct light—a sunny windowsill or outdoor full sun in warm climates is ideal

• If grown indoors, supplement with a grow light during winter months

💧 Watering Needs:

• As a succulent, it stores water in its caudex, so infrequent but deep watering is best

• Water thoroughly when the soil is completely dry, and allow excess to drain

• Avoid overwatering—this plant is drought-tolerant and sensitive to root rot

• Reduce watering in winter when the plant goes semi-dormant

✂️ Pruning & Maintenance:

• Minimal pruning is needed—remove any dry or damaged leaves to maintain its shape

• You can gently prune the branches to encourage tighter growth and shape the bonsai

• Repot every 2–3 years in a well-draining cactus or bonsai mix

🌡️ Hardiness Zones:

• Best suited for USDA Zones 10–11

• In cooler climates, it should be grown indoors year-round

• Protect from frost and cold temperatures below 50°F

🐾 Pet Safety:

• This plant is considered non-toxic, but due to its spiny texture, it's best kept out of reach of curious pets

• 🌟 Why It’s Special:

  • Rare and hard to find in cultivated bonsai form

  • Features a caudex trunk, making each specimen unique in shape and size

  • Combines the art of bonsai with the low-maintenance joy of succulents

  • Perfect for collectors, bonsai enthusiasts, or anyone looking for a conversation-starting centerpiece

  • Blooming capability adds seasonal beauty and surprise

Botanical Name

Trichodiadema bulbosum

Common Names

African Bonsai, Caudex Bonsai, Pine Needle Bonsai

Plant Type

Succulent Bonsai, Caudiciform

Mature Size

Typically under 1 foot in bonsai form

Sun Exposure

Full sun to bright, indirect light

Soil Type

Well-draining cactus or bonsai soil mix

Watering

Water deeply when soil is completely dry; reduce in winter

Humidity

Low to moderate humidity; well-suited for dry indoor environments

Bloom Time

Spring to summer with ideal light

Flower Color

Vibrant purple, daisy-like flowers

Hardiness Zones

Zone 10-11; grow indoors in cooler regions

Native Area

South Africa

Toxicity

Not known to be toxic, but best kept out of reach of pets due to spiny texture

Plants ship from our location in Florida and arrive nationwide within 5-8 business days. All our plants ship exclusively with UPS to ensure they arrive timely and in good condition. For those users in Florida, George, North Carolina, South Carolina, or Virginia, shipping may be faster. Estimated shipping dates can be seen in checkout. Plant exclusions may apply.

We monitor the weather in each destination location to maximize the shipping time and utilize thermal protection to ensure that the plant is protected. You can add a heatpack or thermal bag to your order if temperatures at night fall below 40 degrees.

You can visit our shipping policy to learn more.