The word Bonsai
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We all know that the word Bonsai is Japanese for "tree in a pot" but did you know that the art of Bonsai originally began in China and was taken from the word "Penzai". Penzai means "tray plant" and over time was developed further with the Chinese word "Penjing" ("tray scenery") which is used quite much today. There are many books and exhibitions each year based on the art of Penjing. The relatively new word "Saikei" is the Japanese alternative to Penjing and the term means "planted landscape". To make a Saikei the design should include plants, soil, rocks and water to make a miniature landscape. There are two other Japanese words, "Bonkei" and "Bonseki" that also mean landscape but these are related to dry landscapes and no living material is used in these. The Vietnamese also have their own term, "Hòn Non Bô" meaning Island, Mountain and Water, for the art of living landscapes. |
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Bonsai size classification
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Bonsai trees can be classified by their size. This is more important to understand if you ever want to enter your prized bonsai into a competition. Your bonsai will then compete against other bonsai in the same size classification. The exact size classification can actually change from country to country and from competition to competition but a general guide is shown below.
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The size classification relates to the height (H) of the main trunk from the base to the top. |
Bonsai styles
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Bonsai trees are grown into different styles. The style used on the tree depends on the species of the tree. Some trees can be grown into many different styles, while others are limited to just one or two styles. The table below lists some of the most common styles along with the equivalent Japanese word and a description of the style.
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