China doll

Plant Overview

• Botanical Name: Radermachera sinica

• Common Names: China Doll Plant, Serpent Tree, Emerald Tree

• Type: Evergreen shrub/tree (kept small indoors)

• Appearance: Glossy, feathery, fern-like leaves on woody stems, giving a miniature-tree look.

 Care Guide

1. Sun Light

• Prefers bright, indirect light.

• Can tolerate some direct morning sunlight but avoid harsh afternoon rays.

• Low light makes it leggy and causes leaf drop.

2. Watering

• Keep soil evenly moist, not soggy.

• Let the top 1–2 inches of soil dry before watering again.

• Very sensitive to overwatering (root rot risk).

• Yellow leaves = too much water; dry crispy leaves = too little water.

3. Soil

• Well-draining, loamy potting mix.

• A mix of garden soil + coco peat + sand/perlite works well.

4. Fertilizer

• During active growth : feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 2–4 weeks.

• Reduce feeding in fall and winter.

5. Pruning

• Regular pruning helps maintain compact shape and prevents legginess.

• Pinch back new growth to encourage bushy foliage.

6. Repotting

• China Dolls don’t like root disturbance. Repot only every 2–3 years when rootbound.

• Choose a pot only slightly bigger than the previous one.

 Flowers

• Rarely blooms indoors.

• Outdoors, mature plants may produce trumpet-shaped, fragrant, creamy-yellow flowers.

 Uses & Benefits

1. Ornamental Value – Popular indoor plant for its elegant, tree-like appearance.

2. Air Purification – Helps improve indoor air quality by filtering toxins.

3. Aesthetic Appeal – Adds a lush, tropical feel to homes, offices, and lobbies.

4. Container Gardening – Grows well in pots, patios, or as a bonsai-style decorative plant.