Exploring the Diverse Styles and Forms of Bonsai

Exploring the Diverse Styles and Forms of Bonsai

Bonsai is an intricate art form that showcases a variety of styles and shapes, each reflecting the beauty of nature in miniature. Below is a comprehensive overview of different bonsai styles that highlight the richness of this practice.

Styles with a Single Trunk

Classic Upright Style (Chokkan)

The Chokkan, or classic upright style, is a highly favored form in nature. Typically found in forests or open spaces, these trees grow with a triangular branch structure due to ample light and space. A classic upright bonsai features a straight, vertical trunk that tapers gradually towards the top. The first branch usually emerges about a quarter of the tree's height, with subsequent branches spaced evenly.

Broom Style (Hokidachi)

The Hokidachi, or broom style, mimics a natural tree form. In this style, the trunk is straight and vertical, with branches beginning at about one-third of the tree's height. This bonsai style is particularly suited for deciduous trees with fine branches, such as elm or maple, as it beautifully showcases the branch structure during winter.

Informal Upright Style (Moyogi)

The Moyogi, or informal upright style, is widely used in bonsai art due to its versatility across various species. The trunk grows irregularly, forming a gentle “S” shape with branches extending from each curve. Similar to the Chokkan, the trunk tapers as it reaches the top, with the curves becoming tighter. Some conifers may feature Jin, although this is not the most fitting style for them.

Slanting Style (Shakan)

The Shakan, often referred to as “wind-blown,” represents a slanted tree as if bent by the wind. This style originated from bonsai artists in Japan's coastal areas, with the trunk inclined at an angle between 45° and 60° from the ground. If the angle is steeper, it leans towards the Fukinagashi style. Variants of the Shakan exist, categorized by the trunk's inclination, including Sho-Shakan, Chu-Shakan, and Dai-Shakan. Achieving this appearance involves placing the bonsai in shade and using wiring techniques. As it grows, the bonsai naturally leans towards the light.

Cascade Style (Kengai)

The cascade style, or Kengai, depicts a tree with a significantly inclined trunk. In nature, this style can be found on rocky cliffs, where the trunk curves due to wind, falling rocks, or snow weight on the branches. This form is often applied to conifers planted in tall pots. Cultivating a Kengai bonsai is quite challenging and requires extensive wiring, making it a rare sight in commercial settings.

Semi-Cascade Style (Han-Kengai)

Similar to the cascade style, the Han-Kengai represents a slanted tree growing on a cliff face, with its curve shaped by snow or stone weight. Unlike the cascade style, the semi-cascade trunk never descends below the pot. This form can also be achieved through wiring techniques.

Styles with Multiple Trunks

Explore bonsai styles that grow from a single or multiple root systems, resulting in multiple trunks.

Double Trunk Style (Sokan)

The Sokan, or double trunk style, is a common tree form in nature but is rarely used in bonsai. In this style, two trunks share a single root system yet differ in size, with one trunk being thicker than the other.

Multiple Trunks Style (Kabudachi)

The Kabudachi, or multiple trunks style, closely resembles the Sokan but features more than three trunks that collectively form a single tree.

Forest Style (Yose-UE)

This style is quite similar to the multiple trunks style, but it consists of several bonsai with separate root systems. The bonsai are arranged in a staggered formation to represent a forest as naturally as possible.

Dimensions of Bonsai

Bonsai can be classified into various dimensions, measured in “hands” needed for transport.

Shito

Shito bonsai are mini bonsai measuring less than 7.5 cm. While captivating, they are challenging to maintain, especially regarding watering, which requires constant attention.

Mame and Shohin

Mame: Bonsai ranging from 7.5 cm to 15 cm in height. Shohin: Bonsai measuring from 15 cm to 23 cm.

Both Shohin and Mame are small enough to fit in one hand, giving an abstract sense of what an “arbor” can be. Their small pots necessitate delicate care, particularly in summer, to prevent soil dryness.

Kotate-mochi or Komono

Bonsai measuring between 15 and 30 cm tall. This two-handed bonsai is the most common in stores. Its size allows for more detailed work on its structure and greater creative freedom.

Chu Bonsai

Chu bonsai are categorized by height, ranging from 30 to 90 cm: Chuchin: Medium-sized bonsai from 30 cm to 60 cm. Chumono: Medium-sized bonsai from 60 cm to 90 cm.

Omono

Omono bonsai, measuring between 90 cm and 120 cm, require at least two people for transport. In Asia, particularly Japan, these bonsai are often displayed at garden entrances, symbolizing prosperity for the property.

Hachy-Uye

Bonsai classified as Hachy-Uye measure over 130 cm.

The pot for bonsai serves as a decorative element akin to moss and stones. It is essential to choose the right pot based on the species and shape of your bonsai.

Explore our seven tips for bonsai beginners, offering basic guidance on bonsai care, including watering, placement, fertilization, repotting, and substrate considerations.