Premium Chinese Elm Indoor Bonsai Favourite with Natural Flow & Lime-Green New Growth
This Chinese Elm has a presence that immediately draws you in. The trunk is thick, powerful and wonderfully honest in its movement. It measures around 3cm at the base, giving the tree real stability and mature character. Moreover, the root flare spreads beautifully, grounding the bonsai with natural strength. The trunk twists gently as it rises, yet nothing feels forced; the flow is soft and convincing, almost as though the tree shaped itself.
One of the first things you notice is the fresh flush of lime-green new-season leaves. These tiny leaves sit neatly across highly refined foliage pads, giving the bonsai a crisp and structured appearance. As the tree matures into spring, these pads will thicken and create even more depth and texture.
The branches carry a graceful downward turn, which is something you only see on well-styled bonsai or old trees in the wild. This subtle angle mimics the way heavy, weathered branches settle over time. Because of this, the tree feels older than its 11 years.
Lloyd chose a royal blue rectangular ceramic pot for this tree because the colour lifts the foliage beautifully. The blue creates a striking contrast against the lime-green leaves and the textured bark. The matching drip tray completes the set and reinforces its premium feel. Standing at 30cm, the bonsai remains compact, tidy and easy to place in the home.
This is the exact 11-year-old Ulmus parvifolia bonsai you will receive, photographed in mid-December 2025.
Trunk & Design
The trunk rises with steady, confident strength. Its movement is natural and understated, which makes the tree feel authentic. Furthermore, the root flare offers width and anchors the design with purpose. The branching angles downward with elegance and connects the whole silhouette in a believable, mature way.
Foliage & Seasonal Interest
The leaves are naturally small and beautifully proportioned. The lime-green colouring of the new growth brightens the entire composition. As the year progresses, the canopy shifts towards richer greens, and then in spring, you’ll enjoy another fresh flush. Because of this cycle, the tree always feels active and alive.
Ceramic Pot
The royal blue rectangular pot gives the bonsai a clean, modern frame. Its glaze enhances both trunk and foliage, while the shape supports the tree’s natural flow. The matching ceramic tray adds polish and practicality.
Species Overview
Ulmus parvifolia is one of the most rewarding indoor bonsai species. It thrives in bright rooms with stable temperatures and adapts easily to normal household conditions. Because it responds so well to pruning, it’s perfect for beginners who want to learn styling techniques. The species symbolises wisdom, inner strength and resilience — qualities that show through in its hardy growth habit and elegant form.
Place your Chinese Elm in a bright position (but not too hot in mid summer). Water when the soil begins to dry slightly. Apply bonsai fertiliser or bonsai mist weekly in the growing season to encourage fresh growth and fine twigging.
Why Choose Bonsai Direct
We grow and style each bonsai at our family-run nursery in rural Devon.
We grow our bonsai trees individually; and, we photograph every premium bonsai individually.
Our sustainable growing values, careful packing and friendly aftercare ensure a reassuring experience.
A printed care guide is included with every tree.
