Spiny Black Olive, Ming Tree. Exotic small tree that is valuable as unusual bonsai subject or specimen plant. This delicate tree grows into a bonsai almost by itself! Can be used as a potted indoor tree. It is very salt tolerant, making it a good choice for bonsai lovers by the sea. Bonsai shapes are awesome. They have small leaves and thorns and and grow out erratically in all directions, forming diamond-like lace.