Styling a bonsai is one of the most important tasks in creating the tree. There are about 30 formally recognized bonsai styles. Those new to bonsai can get overwhelmed by this extensive list of options. This article explores five of the most basic and well-suited styles for beginners.
The windswept style, also called Shakan bonsai, mimics a tree that has been subjected to strong winds. This often occurs in nature if a tree grows along the shore or mountain tops. Pines are most often used for this style, but any species will work.
The informal upright, also known as Moyogi, is a common bonsai style that features curvature in the trunk line. These curves can be gentle or pronounced and are an important element to a beautiful bonsai tree. This style is easy for beginners to achieve.
Cascading bonsai trees have branches and leaves that hang below the base of the trunk. This style is often used for pine and juniper bonsais.
Semi-cascade bonsai have a mix of several different styles. Typically the apex of the tree starts out as an informal upright or Moyogi and then turns down into a cascade style.
Broom style bonsai trees are extremely bushy and can have a light green color. This is a great style to use for figs and some deciduous species.
A formal bonsai display usually consists of the featured tree in its pot on a wooden stand and a shitakusa (companion plant) or hanging scroll. The arrangement of these elements aims to represent a landscape and evoke a particular season or mood. The trees are placed within the tokonoma, the formal display alcove in Japanese homes.
Australian Willow Bonsai Trees Fresh Cutting - Extensive Thick Trunks Fast Growing Light Bonsai Indoor Money Plant - Antique Piece for Your Home and Office
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Brussel's Satsuki Azalea Bonsai - Small (Outdoor) with Humidity Tray & Deco Rock
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Brussel's Live Green Mound Juniper Outdoor Bonsai Tree - 3 Years Old; 4" to 6" Tall with Decorative Container - Not Sold in California
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9Greenbox Best Gift Bonsai Juniper Tree, 4 Pound
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HOME GROWN Bonsai Tree Kit: Unique Christmas Gifts for Men - Bonsai Starter Kit w/ 6 Seed Varieties - Unique Designed Pots - All-in-One Craft Kit for Adults for Gardeners & Plant Lovers
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Bonsai Tree kit -NIFSEL Bonsai Growing Kit - Complete Starter kit, 5 Types of Trees - Culture Medium, Plant Marker, Burlap Pots - Indoor Garden Gardening - Unique Garden Gift, Housewarming Present
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9GreenBox - Zen Reflections Juniper Bonsai
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Brussel's Bonsai Live Ginseng Grafted Ficus Indoor Bonsai Tree - Small, 4 Years, 6 to 8 In - Live Bonsai Tree in Ceramic Bonsai Pot and Humidity Tray
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Brussel's Live Money Tree Indoor Bonsai - 4 Years Old; 10" to 14" Tall with Decorative Container
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