Are Costco's Bonsai Trees A Good Buy For Beginner Enthusiasts

Step aside, boring plants. Bonsai trees might just be your new favorite hobby — even as a novice. These miniature trees have long been treasured for their unique appearance and calming nature. We even did a survey, and over a third of people agree this plant would be the perfect home addition. But here's the thing: Bonsais can cost a pretty penny, with many hitting the $100 mark.

That's not the case for the ones at Costco, though. Their Bonsai Live Indoor Plant in 7 in. Pot is priced at $34.99, while the Gardenia Small Bonsai Tree sells for $37.99. Of course, we did some digging to find out if they're really a good buy for beginner enthusiasts. Hint: They may need more attention than you think. You also can't always count on Costco to deliver your plant in one piece. On the plus side, one reviewer notes, "The price was so reasonable that if it doesn't last (due to over or under-watering) I won't be upset."

In Japanese, bonsai translates to "tray planting." The goal here is to cultivate a mini plant that mimics the shape, proportion, and beauty of a full-sized tree. This involves careful training, tending, and patience, but the result is a stunning work of art in a small container. Do note that not all bonsai trees are pet-friendly and can be toxic if ingested. Luckily, the first bonsai tree we'll talk about is non-toxic, although the second one should be kept away from furry friends.

This Bonsai Live Indoor Plant from Costco is one of the many types of bonsai trees that add dramatic flair to indoor spaces. It's a money tree (Pachira aquatica). The rundown is that it stands 12 to 16 inches tall with its pot, has a very interesting trunk, and is easy to care for. All you need to do is place it somewhere where it can soak up ample sunlight and avoid overwatering — if it arrives in good condition, that is. While some mentioned that their plant came packed very carefully, others complained about torn leaves, crushed pots, and cracks in the roots upon arrival.

"My Bonsai came with multiple brown spots on the leaves," one reviewer writes, adding, "Let's hope it's not a mite and just travel damage." This can be especially frustrating if you're planning on gifting the bonsai to someone. Yet, it can only be ordered online. Is the hassle worth the $34.99 price tag? Maybe. You might get lucky and end up with a perfectly happy bonsai, just like the many 5-star reviews on Costco's website. Or, you could opt for an even more affordable option from Amazon, like the Arcadia Money Tree Live Indoor Plant. This bonsai is also a money tree but retails for $21.94.

What about the Gardenia Small Bonsai Tree, you ask? This beauty belongs to the Gardenia species (Gardenia jasminoides 'Radicans'). Measuring 6 to 8 inches tall and 5 to 7 inches wide, it's rather compact. Perhaps the plant's most prominent feature is that it blooms white, highly fragrant flowers from late March through June.

Unfortunately, growing and caring for the bonsai tree is a point of frustration for hundreds of reviewers. "Although I tried my best to take good care of it, it has died," a plant parent wrote. Another one said: "Had I known all the specific care that it required, I probably would not have ordered it." One bonsai buyer explained that the tree needs lots of sun (think patio/deck/balcony) and daily watering for best results. It also won't survive indoors for longer than five days, as per the care instructions. Put simply, this type of bonsai definitely requires a green thumb.

Price-wise, it's safe to say this gardenia bonsai tree from Costco is a good deal, considering others of the same species typically cost $40 upward. Packaging shouldn't be a concern (for the most part) unlike the previous bonsai tree. "The gardenia bonsai tree arrived in excellent shape, packed in an oversized box with the container attached securely to one end, plastic covering the base so soil wouldn't spill out, and plenty of space for branches so as to not get damaged," a satisfied customer shared.