Aglaia odorata, commonly known as Chinese Perfume Tree or Mock Lime, is a tropical evergreen shrub or small tree in the Meliaceae family. From a botanical perspective, its inherent growth habits make it surprisingly well-suited for bonsai cultivation. It is a slow-growing plant, a highly desirable trait for bonsai, as it reduces the frequency of drastic pruning and allows the hobbyist to refine the shape over time. Its natural tendency to develop a dense, compact canopy of small, glossy, dark green leaves is ideal for creating the illusion of a mature, miniature tree. The leaves reduce well in response to pruning and container restriction, which is crucial for maintaining correct scale and proportion in a bonsai composition.
As a tropical species native to Southeast Asia, Aglaia odorata is not frost-tolerant. For US hobbyists, this is the primary horticultural consideration. It thrives in USDA Hardiness Zones 10-12 and must be protected from temperatures below 40°F (4°C). In most of the continental US, this means it will be grown as an indoor bonsai for a significant portion of the year, or year-round in northern states. It requires a very bright location, such as a south-facing window, and will greatly benefit from being placed outdoors in a spot with partial shade during the warm summer months. High humidity is also beneficial and can be provided with a humidity tray or regular misting to prevent leaf tip browning.
The plant responds predictably to standard bonsai techniques. Wiring is effective on younger, more flexible branches, but care must be taken as the bark can be somewhat delicate. Pruning is best performed in the active growing season (spring and summer). The plant back-buds reliably on old wood after pruning, allowing you to develop ramification and refine the branch structure. Its slow growth means repotting is only necessary every 2-3 years. A well-draining bonsai soil mix is essential to prevent root rot. While it can tolerate a slight dryness between waterings, it prefers consistently moist (not waterlogged) soil, especially during the growing season.
Aglaia odorata has a distinct growth cycle that must be respected. Its growth will slow considerably during the lower-light winter months. Watering should be reduced accordingly, allowing the soil to become slightly drier. Fertilization should be paused during this dormant period. The most celebrated botanical feature is its tiny, fragrant yellow flowers. These panicles of flowers can appear periodically throughout the warm season, but blooming is most prolific in bright, high-humidity conditions. The intense, sweet fragrance, reminiscent of citrus blossoms, is a significant reward for the hobbyist and is perfectly scaled for a miniature tree.
