Ficus Microcarpa ‘Tiger Bark’ Bonsai Chinese Banyan | Informal Upright 12 Year Old

1. Botanical IdentityScientific name: Ficus microcarpa
Cultivar: Tiger Bark
Common names: Chinese Banyan, Indian Laurel Fig

This bonsai belongs to the Ficus microcarpa species, a tropical fig valued for its resilience, adaptability, and suitability for long-term bonsai cultivation. The Tiger Bark cultivar is specifically recognised for its naturally mottled trunk texture, which develops only with age and correct growing conditions.

The bark pattern seen here is not cosmetic or induced — it is a true cultivar trait that appears over years of healthy growth.

2. Cultivar Distinctions — Why “Tiger Bark” Matters

This is not a generic ficus bonsai.

Key identifying traits:

• Grey, speckled, rough bark with natural “tiger” patterning
• Thick trunk with visible age and natural taper
• Oval, glossy leaves (medium size, not dwarf)
• Presence of aerial roots, typical of banyan-type figs

What it is not:

• Not Ficus benjamina (which has thinner, drooping leaves)
• Not mislabeled “retusa” nursery stock
• Not juvenile ficus trained quickly for sale

Tiger Bark ficus is preferred by serious growers because the trunk continues to improve with time, unlike smooth-bark varieties that plateau visually.

3. Estimated Age & MaturityEstimated age: 12 years

This estimate is based on:

• Bark maturity and surface texture
• Trunk girth relative to overall height
• Established primary branch framework
• Early-stage but genuine aerial root development

At this stage, the bonsai is considered mid-maturity — beyond raw stock, but not yet exhibition-finished.
4. Styling Logic & Design IntentPrimary style: Informal Upright (Moyogi)
Why this style suits the tree:

• Natural S-curve trunk movement
• Balanced canopy mass
• Apex inclination that adds depth and direction
• Root structure compatible with future banyan expression

Long-term potential:

• Can evolve into a banyan-style tropical ficus over 2–3 years
• Aerial roots may be selectively encouraged or reduced
• Branch ramification and leaf size can be progressively refined

This bonsai rewards patience and thoughtful pruning, not aggressive reshaping.




5. Pot & Presentation (Current State)


The bonsai is intentionally presented in a functional, understated pot, prioritising horticultural health over decoration.

• Focus remains on trunk, bark, and foliage
• Suitable for training and refinement stages
• Exhibition or premium ceramic upgrade can be done later

This reflects a grower-first philosophy, not a décor-first one.

6. Care Philosophy (High-Level)Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Environment: Tropical / subtropical friendly
Light: Bright natural light preferred
Pruning tolerance: High
Recovery ability: Excellent
Tiger Bark Ficus is one of the most forgiving bonsai species, making it suitable for both:

• Beginners seeking long-term success
• Experienced growers focused on refinement potential