Indoor Bonsai Tree Travels Through Time
The Indoor Bonsai tree has a long and fascinating history ranging from monks and the aristocracy to the general population. Let’s travel with the bonsai tree so that we can gain an understanding and appreciation for this unique art form. Keep in mind that the term bonsai refers to any tree or shrub in miniature that is kept in a pot.
Bonsai tree Born in China
We are born not it Japan, as people might think from watching Karate Kid, but in China somewhere around 700 A.D. At this time our name is not actually bonsai, but rather Penjing. Penjing is translated from the character “Pen” which means tray and “Jing” which means scenery. The first documented proof of our existance is in the tomb of Prince Zhang Huai who died in 706 A.D. On the walls of the tomb there is a picture of a servant carrying a miniature landscape, and in another a servant is carrying a plant in a pot. The Chinese were fascinated with us, with miniaturization in general, believing that miniaturization concentrated the mystical and magical powers of the tree. It is not clear whether we were kept indoors or outside at this time. In China we are are characterized by sparse foliage and thick trunks which often resemble birds, dragons and other animals.
Travels to Japan
Our next destination is Japan. Experts argue just when we made the trip, but it is agreed that we traveled somewhere between the Heian period (794 – 1191A.D.) and the Kamakura period (1185 – 1333). We are now called Bonsai, from the character “Bon” meaning tray and “Sai” meaning plant. Though we have a new name in this new country, it is really very similar. In fact the Chinese character for “Pen” and the Japanese symbol for “Bon” are identical. There is a Japanese scroll attributed to the year 1195 that seems to refer to bonsai. In the beginning bonsai in general, and indoor Bonsai Trees in particular, were limited to Buddhist monks who were looking to bring some nature and life into their drab quarters. Over time, our keeping and care expanded to the aristocracy, and was seen as a sign of honor and prestige. In the 1300′s we made our way to the general population. It was now that great strides in the techniques for training bonsai occurred. This is probably why much of the general population believes that we were born here. For the Japanese, we represent the harmony between man, the soul and nature. Japanese indoor bonsai trees are usually trained to closely resemble their larger counterparts.
Across the Ocean to the United States
At the end of World War II, we traveled across the ocean to the United States with soldiers returning from war. Unfortunately, many of us died from the trip, and from inadequate care when we arrived. However interest was sparked, and Americans wanted to learn how to train and properly care for us. Fortunately for us there were many Japanese Americans willing to help, and it wasn’t long before we not only survived but thrived in our new country. Modern American bonsai represent a combination and blurring of both Chinese and Japanese techniques and practices.
From China to Japan to the US, we have now completed our travels with the indoor bonsai tree. Of course the bonsai is know know and has gained acceptance and popularity all over the world. We have traveled through time, across the globe, and have broken economic barriers to arrive where we are today as a hobby and art form that is enjoyed the world over. Hopefully our trip had increased your knowledge of the vast history of the bonsai, and increased your appreciation for the art form.
About the Author
Kathleen is an Internet Marketer and author of the Indoor Bonsai Tree blog. She enjoys learning new things and meeting interesting new people both online and off.
Bonsai Tree Care and Creation — Chinese Elm Bonsai Tree
|
|
Bonsai Sacred Tree $14.99 Bonsai Sacred Tree – Art Print |
|
|
Bonsai Cave Tree $59.99 OM Bonsai Cave Tree – Giclee Print |
|
|
Bonsai Poets Tree $59.99 OM Bonsai Poets Tree – Giclee Print |
|
|
Bonsai Immortality Tree $59.99 OM Bonsai Immortality Tree – Giclee Print |
|
|
Bonsai Tree at the National Arboretum $39.99 David Evans Bonsai Tree at the National Arboretum – Photographic Print |
|
|
Bonsai Tree at Thai Hoa Palace $24.99 Tony Burns Bonsai Tree at Thai Hoa Palace – Photographic Print |
|
|
Close-Up of a Bonsai Ash Tree $24.99 C. Dani Close-Up of a Bonsai Ash Tree – Photographic Print |
|
|
Bonsai $10 Bonsai |
|
|
Small Bonsai Tree in a Pot Sits on a Table in a Garden $39.99 Eightfish Small Bonsai Tree in a Pot Sits on a Table in a Garden – Photographic Print |
|
|
Japanese Woman Standing Near Bonsai Tree $19.99 Japanese Woman Standing Near Bonsai Tree – Premium Poster |
|
|
Acer Palmatum, Japanese Maple Bonsai Tree Trunk $24.99 Acer Palmatum, Japanese Maple Bonsai Tree Trunk – Photographic Print |
|
|
Bonsai Cypress Tree in Collection of Keibun Tanaka $79.99 Bonsai Cypress Tree in Collection of Keibun Tanaka – Premium Photographic Print |
|
|
A Bonsai Japanese Maple Tree (Acer Palmatum) $39.99 Darlyne A. Murawski A Bonsai Japanese Maple Tree (Acer Palmatum) – Photographic Print |
|
|
Bonsai Tree Inside of the Botanical Garden in Singapore $39.99 Eightfish Bonsai Tree Inside of the Botanical Garden in Singapore – Photographic Print |
|
|
Shopzeus USA zeusd1CALA4270478 Podocarpus Bonsai 24 Inch $160.74 The Podocarpus tree has long been a favorite among Bonsai admirers. Often referred to as the Chinese Yew this lovely two foot tall tree boasts finely detailed leaves that stretch upward. An intricately carved trunk adds further appeal to this beautifully designed work of art. Nestled in a black rectangular planter with artificial soil this splendid looking tree adds life to any setting. |
|
|
Tree Branches of a Bonsai Japanese Maple Tree (Acer Palmatum) $39.99 Darlyne A. Murawski Tree Branches of a Bonsai Japanese Maple Tree (Acer Palmatum) – Photographic Print |
|
|
Bonsai Tree Accent Table Fountain $399.95 Your imagination will travel to places of peace and beauty as you watch the glistening cascades of water travel down the Bonsai Tree Accent Tabletop Fountain. The beauty of the fabric foliage and the |
|
|
Bonsai Tree, Chedi, Wat Pho, Bangkok, Thailand $29.99 Adam Jones Bonsai Tree, Chedi, Wat Pho, Bangkok, Thailand – Photographic Print |
|
|
Japanese Horticulturist Kan Yashiroda Tending to a Bonsai Tree $99.99 Gordon Parks Japanese Horticulturist Kan Yashiroda Tending to a Bonsai Tree – Premium Photographic Print |
|
|
Japanese Black Pine Bonsai Tree, Pinus Thunbergii $19.99 Steve Greaves Japanese Black Pine Bonsai Tree, Pinus Thunbergii – Photographic Print |
|
|
Close-Up of an Olive Bonsai Tree (Olea Europaea) $24.99 C. Dani Close-Up of an Olive Bonsai Tree (Olea Europaea) – Photographic Print |
|
|
Bonsai School $18.38 It’s big and beautiful, and the only course you need to cultivate bonsais successfully. From the author of the acclaimed "Bonsai for Beginners," this comprehensive, easy-to-follow instructional guide covers the basics and way beyond. One step at a time, he helps gardeners develop the necessary skills to create and maintain a beautifully shaped miniature potted tree. Everything imaginable is here, from choosing a suitable plant to wiring, pruning, and aging techniques, and finally expert tips on care. With its impressively large format, pages brimming with photos of dozens of specimens at different stages of growth, and preferred design techniques from world-famous bonsai artists, this is without a doubt the definitive reference on the subject. PRAISE FOR "BONSAI FOR BEGINNERS": "A thoroughly illustrated reference that will captivate and educate newcomers to the art…a wealth of personal insights accompanied by illustrations that are refreshing in their clarity and in the depth of the accompanying explanations."–"Bonsai Online." |
|
|
Bloody Bonsai $3.95 James P. (Jim) Dandy, a grieving widower, could hardly believe he’d agreed to go to an Elderhostel to learn to grow and care for bonsai trees. He didn’t feel up to meeting new people alone. But Jim went and he met some real corkers – artist Dodee Swisher who set his heart on fire; his gruff, ex-army-man roommate; a raven-haired gymnast who exercised on the balcony every morning. Any one of them could have rammed that bonsai tree into the chest of a motel employee, but the authorities were clearly focusing their attention on Jim and Dodee… |
|
|
Flowering Chinese Tree III $84.99 Flowering Chinese Tree III – Framed Art Print |
|
|
Flowering Chinese Tree II $124.99 Flowering Chinese Tree II – Framed Art Print |
|
|
Flowering Chinese Tree IV $124.99 Flowering Chinese Tree IV – Framed Art Print |
|
|
Chinese Parasol Tree $54.99 Becky Davis Chinese Parasol Tree – Art Print |
|
|
500-Year-Old Bonsai Pine Tree in Collection of Keibun Tanaka $79.99 500-Year-Old Bonsai Pine Tree in Collection of Keibun Tanaka – Premium Photographic Print |
|
|
300-Year-Old Bonsai Pine Tree in Collection of Keibun Tanaka $79.99 300-Year-Old Bonsai Pine Tree in Collection of Keibun Tanaka – Premium Photographic Print |
|
|
100-Year-Old Bonsai Cherry Tree in Collection of Keibun Tanaka $79.99 100-Year-Old Bonsai Cherry Tree in Collection of Keibun Tanaka – Premium Photographic Print |
|
|
Young Bonsai Cherry Tree on Estate of Collector Keibun Tanaka in Suburb of Tokyo $79.99 Alfred Eisenstaedt Young Bonsai Cherry Tree on Estate of Collector Keibun Tanaka in Suburb of Tokyo – Premium Photographic Print |
|
|
300-Year-Old Bonsai Pine Tree with Swirling Trunk in Collection of Keibun Tanaka $79.99 300-Year-Old Bonsai Pine Tree with Swirling Trunk in Collection of Keibun Tanaka – Premium Photographic Print |
|
|
Pretty Pink-Colored Leaves on a Bonsai Japanese Maple Tree $39.99 Darlyne A. Murawski Pretty Pink-Colored Leaves on a Bonsai Japanese Maple Tree – Photographic Print |
|
|
Bonsai Tree and Red Lantern and Buddhist Temple in Jingzhou, China $34.99 David Evans Bonsai Tree and Red Lantern and Buddhist Temple in Jingzhou, China – Photographic Print |
|
|
Beginning Bonsai Beginning Bonsai: The Gentle Art of Miniature Tree Growing the Gentle Art of Miniature Tree Growing $3.95 Writing for those with no bonsai experience, Larry and Shirley Student cover everything from buying the first plant to creating a miniature landscape of rocks, grasses and trees. In between, they describe different bonsai styles, list important tools, explain pruning and pinching and introduce procedures like defoliation. In short, the authors cover all aspects of bonsai, anticipating common problems and offering practical advice gained from years of working with plants. Kurt Seastrand, past president of the Northeast Bonsai Association raves, "A wonderful book for anyone intrigued by bonsai but hesitant to start. It provides the beginner the excitement and confidence to launch into this fascinating hobby." |
|
|
The Money Tree of the Chinese God of Riches $39.99 The Money Tree of the Chinese God of Riches – Giclee Print |
|
|
National Tree LBC70091 9 in. Cedar Bonsai $31.2 Artificial 9 Cedar Bonsani with rectangle dark Brown plastic pot. 0.75 Tall Cedar Bonsai with realistic trunk. 113 Leaves create ornamental look. Silk leaf material for a natural appearance. Dimensions: 9. |
|
|
National Tree LBC70414 14 in. Cedar Green Bonsai $59.23 Illuminate any room with this vibrant 14 Cedar Bonsai. Dimension: 14 H. The highest Quality Available. Design is stylish and innovative. Satisfaction Ensured. Great Gift Idea. |
|
|
The Secret Techniques of Bonsai: A Guide to Starting, Raising, and Shaping Bonsai $27.38 In The Secret Techniques of Bonsai, the author of the groundbreaking Bonsai With American Trees teams up with his son to offer not only the basics for creating perfect bonsai, but also secret techniques they’ve developed over years of careful work and observation. The Kawasumis provide detailed, easy-to-follow information about growing bonsai from seedlings or beginner plants; expert advice on shaping, pruning, training, grafting and repotting trees; and new techniques for using tools. And, although the Kawasumi family is worldrenowned for their bonsai tool design, their instructions allow gardeners to improvise with other readily-accessible bonsai, gardening or even simple workshop tools. Step-by-step photographs accompany the text, many in full-color. Masakuni Kawasumi III, the first qualified tree doctor for bonsai in Japan, contributes his unique insights to make this an invaluable resource for beginners and experienced enthusiasts alike. |
|
|
Rose Bonsai Tree Pillow $138 -French Woven Tapestry -Handcrafted In USA -Finished With Hand-Tied Tassel Fringes. |
|
|
Bonsai Tree Blue Pillow $138 -French Woven Tapestry -Handcrafted In USA -Finished With Handmade Welt-Corded Trim |
|
|
Bloom Bonsai Tree Pillow $138 -French Woven Tapestry -Handcrafted In USA -Finished With Handmade Welt-Corded Trim |
|
|
Doubled-Up Bonsai Pine Tree in Collection of Keibun Tanaka Took 300 Years to Form $79.99 Doubled-Up Bonsai Pine Tree in Collection of Keibun Tanaka Took 300 Years to Form – Premium Photographic Print |
|
|
110 Year Old Bonsai Maple Tree on Estate of Collector Keibun Tanaka in Suburb of Tokyo $69.99 Alfred Eisenstaedt 110 Year Old Bonsai Maple Tree on Estate of Collector Keibun Tanaka in Suburb of Tokyo – Photographic Print |
|
|
Shopzeus USA zeusd1CALA4270481 Podocarpus Bonsai 16 Inch $94.52 This Asian styled Podocarpus bonsai contains an abundance of naturallooking leaves. A highly detailed trunk surrounded by exposed tree roots make this item a favorite among bonsai lovers. A circular planter filled with artificial soil encompasses the base of this authentic masterpiece. This bonsai is the perfect size for a desk or office work space. |
|
|
National Tree LBC701161 16 in. Cedar Bonsai with Oval Black Plastic Pot $51.19 At 16 es tall this Cedar bonsai adds a soft touch of elegance to any room. Both the delicately crafted leaf pattern and the carefully designed branches make this tree a popular gift item for any occasion. Encased in a circular container filled with artificial soil this bonsai tree provides a sense of peace and tranquility to your home or office area. Dimensions: 16 H. Pot size: 7 W x 3 H x 11 L. |
|
|
The Jonsteen Company 58012 Bonsai Grow Kit: Japanese Black Pine $29.57 The art of bonsai begins with a tree This appealing germination kit gives the bonsai enthusiast everything needed to start a tree from the very beginning from seed. That means total control for shaping the tree into an utterly unique bonsai masterpiece Our bonsai kits are stocked with Japanese Black Pine seed a tree species known for its pleasing bonsia qualities and highly suitability for creative shaping. 100 guaranteed and perfect for both the novice and bonsai expert. Dimensions:. Length: 2.5 . Height: 5 . width: 2.5 |
|
|
Beginning Bonsai By Student, Shirley/ Student, Larry $19.27 A guide for beginning bonsai growers covers how to obtain a bonsai, varieties and styles of bonsai, essential techniques and materials, and caring for bonsai Author: Student, Shirley/ Student, Larry Subtitle: The Gentle Art of Miniature Tree Growing Publication Date: 1993/04/15 Binding Type: Paperbound Language: English Depth: 0.25 Width: 7.25 Height: 10.25 |
|
|
150 Year Old Bonsai Pear Tree on Estate of Collector Keibun Tanaka in Suburb of Tokyo $79.99 Alfred Eisenstaedt 150 Year Old Bonsai Pear Tree on Estate of Collector Keibun Tanaka in Suburb of Tokyo – Premium Photographic Print |
|
|
50 Year Old Bonsai Maple Tree on Estate of Collector Keibun Tanaka in Suburb of Tokyo $79.99 Alfred Eisenstaedt 50 Year Old Bonsai Maple Tree on Estate of Collector Keibun Tanaka in Suburb of Tokyo – Premium Photographic Print |
|
|
Keibun Tanaka Brushing Away Fallen Leaves of a Bonsai Maple Tree in Garden, Suburban Tokyo $79.99 Alfred Eisenstaedt Keibun Tanaka Brushing Away Fallen Leaves of a Bonsai Maple Tree in Garden, Suburban Tokyo – Premium Photographic Print |
|
|
200-Year-Old Bushy Bonsai Quince Tree, About 2 1/2 Feet High, in Collection of Keibun Tanaka $79.99 200-Year-Old Bushy Bonsai Quince Tree, About 2 1/2 Feet High, in Collection of Keibun Tanaka – Premium Photographic Print |
|
|
Keibun Tanaka Pruning a Bonsai Tree in the Tray Garden in Front of His Home in Suburb of Tokyo $79.99 Alfred Eisenstaedt Keibun Tanaka Pruning a Bonsai Tree in the “Tray Garden” in Front of His Home in Suburb of Tokyo – Premium Photographic Print |
|
|
The Bonsai Specialist: The Essential Guide to Buying, Planting, Displaying, Improving and Caring for Bonsai $11.55 With topics ranging from watering and feeding to spirit and aesthetics, this is an all-in-one guide to the art of the bonsai. It features advice on looking for and raising trees; handling pests and diseases; using composts; potting; choosing containers; pruning the plants; and displaying them. A convenient A-Z guide covers virtually every species of indoor and outdoor tree. |
|
|
Penjing: The Chinese Art of Bonsai: A Pictorial Exploration of Its History, Aesthetics, Styles and Preservation $17.77 Used – The bonsai tree has become a near-ubiquitous aspect of Japanese art. Less recognized, penjing is a traditional Chinese art which encompasses bonsai and expands upon it. This lovely book showcases the Chinese art of penjing in all its aspects and covers all three categories, tree penjing, rock penjing, and water-and-land penjing. A feast for the eyes, “Penjing: The Chinese Art of Bonsai” provides a wealth of information for the academically inclined as well as the practically minded. |
|
|
Penjing: The Chinese Art of Bonsai: A Pictorial Exploration of Its History, Aesthetics, Styles and Preservation $17.77 New – The bonsai tree has become a near-ubiquitous aspect of Japanese art. Less recognized, penjing is a traditional Chinese art which encompasses bonsai and expands upon it. This lovely book showcases the Chinese art of penjing in all its aspects and covers all three categories, tree penjing, rock penjing, and water-and-land penjing. A feast for the eyes, “Penjing: The Chinese Art of Bonsai” provides a wealth of information for the academically inclined as well as the practically minded. |
|
|
Pocket Bonsai $123.68 From its origins as a Chinese art form some 2000 years ago through today, the bonsai tree remains an object of fascination that embraces both nature and art. Now, gardeners can participate in the wonderful tradition of bonsai cultivation with the help of this definitive, pocket-size yet extremely thorough guide, written by an expert. It”s all here: where and how to begin a collection, growth and feeding processes, maintenance techniques, and a listing of the required tools and equipment. Each page is packed with color photos and offers valuable information on the history, anatomy, and growing environments of these tranquil and beautiful miniature trees. Complete with a directory of suitable species, this is the perfect reference for owners and enthusiasts at any level. |
|
|
Pocket Bonsai: Care, Shaping, Repotting, Species, Styles $30.56 New – From its origins as a Chinese art form some 2000 years ago through today, the bonsai tree remains an object of fascination that embraces both nature and art. Now, gardeners can participate in the wonderful tradition of bonsai cultivation with the help of this definitive, pocket-size yet extremely thorough guide, written by an expert. It’s all here: where and how to begin a collection, growth and feeding processes, maintenance techniques, and a listing of the required tools and equipment. E |
|
|
Sago Palm Bonsai $64.99 This tropical tree species is millions of years old, and native to the islands of the East and South China Seas. While not technically a palm, it’s an easy exotic to grow and maintain. Lush, dark-green palm-like fronds rise and curl from a textural, bulbous trunk. It makes an elegant ornamental indoors or out; treat it to a sunny window inside, or partial shade outdoors. This bonsai will benefit greatly from setting it into a tray filled with pebbles and water. The Sago Palm makes a very interesting and unique ornamental bonsai Sago Palm do well in multiple light environments, making them a wonderful gift option Thrives indoors with direct or indirect light; low-maintenance Sago Palm measures 13″H x 8″W High-fired ceramic container measures 12″L x 6″W Planter size and color may vary |
|
|
Sago Palm Bonsai $64.99 This tropical tree species is millions of years old, and native to the islands of the East and South China Seas. While not technically a palm, it’s an easy exotic to grow and maintain. Lush, dark-green palm-like fronds rise and curl from a textural, bulbous trunk. It makes an elegant ornamental indoors or out; treat it to a sunny window inside, or partial shade outdoors. This bonsai will benefit greatly from setting it into a tray filled with pebbles and water. The Sago Palm makes a very interesting and unique ornamental bonsai Sago Palm do well in multiple light environments, making them a wonderful gift option Thrives indoors with direct or indirect light; low-maintenance Sago Palm measures 13″H x 8″W High-fired ceramic container measures 12″L x 6″W Planter size and color may vary |
|
|
The History of Bonsai, Penjing and Topiary Landscaping Design $17.21 Used – This book discusses the history of the Japanese bonsai tree, the Chinese art of Penjing and topiary landscaping. The book further details how such horticultural designs have left a significant impact on the world.Project Webster represents a new publishing paradigm, allowing disparate content sources to be curated into cohesive, relevant, and informative books. To date, this content has been curated from Wikipedia articles and images under Creative Commons licensing, although as Project W |
|
|
The History of Bonsai, Penjing and Topiary Landscaping Design $15.96 New – This book discusses the history of the Japanese bonsai tree, the Chinese art of Penjing and topiary landscaping. The book further details how such horticultural designs have left a significant impact on the world.Project Webster represents a new publishing paradigm, allowing disparate content sources to be curated into cohesive, relevant, and informative books. To date, this content has been curated from Wikipedia articles and images under Creative Commons licensing, although as Project We |