Known as the spindle tree, I have a couple of seedlings of this shrubby little tree. And it must be pure coincidence that I’ve only ever seen this tree in the local arboretum and has absolutely nothing to do with seed thievery. The tree is fine looking and somewhat elegant, but the fruits are the real showstoppers for me. The color combination is pink and orange, which you just don’t see every day.

These trees are often used for bonsai and my intent is to use mine for my near-bonsai efforts in the coming years. They tend to grow leggy, so it will take some trimming and pinching to keep them in line and help them develop nice shapes.

Like my other tonsai-soon-to-be’s, these plants will start getting pruned and potted into ornamental pots in the next year or two.