Have you ever wanted to know the different bonsai styles that are out there? In this article, we will be going over each of those styles and why they have been used. We have also included some that you can see what they look like as well as a detailed description of how to achieve them.
The Japanese bonsai is a version of the original traditional Chinese art form called penjing. Unlike Penzais, which utilize old-fashioned techniques to produce entire natural scenery in small pots that mimic the large scale and realistic landscapes, Japanese bonsai is more simple and natural.
Continue reading if you want to know more about the ultimate Bonsai style chart.
The Basic Bonsai Tree Style
The basic bonsai tree style is the formal upright. This style is characterized by a straight trunk with a tapered top and symmetrical branches. The formal upright is the most common style for bonsai trees, and it can be used for many different types of trees.
Other popular styles for bonsai trees include:
- Cascade
- Semi-Cascade
- Informal Upright
- Slanting
- Formal Upright
1. Cascade Bonsai Tree Style
The cascade bonsai style is a popular one and for good reason. It’s perfect for showing off a tree’s natural beauty as it flows gracefully down a slope. Unlike other styles, the cascade style doesn’t require any special shaping or training of the tree. In fact, the most important aspect of creating a cascade bonsai is finding the right location for your tree.
There are a few things to keep in mind when creating a cascade bonsai. First, make sure the slope is gradual, so the tree will have time to adjust to the new position. Second, be sure there is plenty of room below the tree for the branches to grow.
Characteristics include…
Roots of the Cascade Bonsai Tree Style
The roots of a cascade bonsai tree are just as important as the branches. The roots should be healthy and well-developed, so the tree can support itself in its new location. If the slope is too steep, the roots may not be able to hold on, and the tree could fall over.
Tree Tip of the Cascade Bonsai Tree Style
The tree tip of a cascade bonsai is also very important. The branches should grow downwards, and the tips of the branches should be pointing towards the ground. This will help keep the tree stable and prevent it from falling over.
Branches of the Cascade Bonsai Tree Style
The branches of a cascade bonsai tree should be strong and healthy, so they can support the weight of the tree. The branches should also be arranged in such a way that they will look good when viewed from below.
Trunk of the Cascade Bonsai Tree Style
The trunk of the cascade bonsai should be sturdy and thick, but not too long. A longer trunk will make it harder for the tree to retain its stability in the new location, while a thicker trunk may overpower the tree.
Reasons to Choose the Cascade Bonsai Tree Style?
The cascade bonsai is a popular option for many reasons.
- First, it’s very easy to create, and requires little shaping or training of the tree. In fact, the natural shape of the tree is usually more aesthetically appealing than what you could achieve with extensive training techniques.
- Second, this style is perfect for displaying a tree’s natural beauty. The branches flow gracefully down the slope, creating a beautiful and eye-catching display.
- The cascade style is very stable, and is less likely to fall over than other styles. This makes it a good choice for beginners or for trees that are not very sturdy.
- The cascade style is perfect for showing off the roots of the tree. The exposed roots are more attractive than those hidden beneath layers of soil, giving you a better view of your bonsai’s natural development.
- The cascade style is perfect for trees with thick trunks or heavy branches. With other styles, these features can look out of place or even unattractive. With the cascade style, they’re more likely to be hidden by the tree’s canopy or concealed by its branches.
- This style works well for trees that grow on slopes and hillsides. While these trees may not work as bonsai specimens in other styles, their natural shape makes them ideal candidates for a cascade bonsai.
- The cascade style is perfect for showing off the tree’s foliage. The branches and leaves are arranged in such a way that they are clearly visible from below, making this style ideal for trees with beautiful leaves or needles.
- The cascade style is a good choice for display in areas where space is limited. With other styles, this may make it difficult to view the tree from all sides. In a cascade bonsai, however, you can view the trunk and roots on one side of the pot while viewing the canopy from another angle.
Styles include Any Coniferous Tree, Any Ficus Tree, Mountain Pine, Scotch Pine, Chinese Juniper and Japanese White Pine.
- Coniferous Tree – A coniferous tree is a type of evergreen that produces cones. Examples include the cedar, fir, juniper, pine, and spruce.
- Ficus Tree – A ficus tree is a type of deciduous tree that is popular for bonsai cultivation. It has broad leaves and a thick trunk.
- Mountain Pine – A pine tree with short needles and a very thick trunk.
- Scotch Pine – A pine tree similar to the mountain pine, but with longer needles.
- Chinese Juniper – A type of coniferous evergreen that features small round cones. This is one of the most popular types of bonsai trees, due to its simple care requirements and beautiful needles.
- Japanese White Pine – A type of coniferous evergreen that produces spirals of 5-7 needles. It has a thin trunk and bright green foliage with pale blue undersides.
Finally, choose a tree that is well suited for the cascade style. Trees with strong branches and a symmetrical shape work best. Maples, junipers, and elms are all good choices for the cascade style.
If you’re looking for an easy way to create a beautiful bonsai, the cascade style is a great option. With a little bit of planning and a suitable location, you can create a bonsai that will wow everyone who sees it.
2. Semi-Cascade Bonsai Tree Style
A semi-cascade bonsai tree is one that has been trained to grow with its trunk flowing down along one side of the pot, and its branches reaching upward toward the sky. This style is perfect for anyone who wants to create a dramatic effect in their home or garden, and it can be used to display a wide variety of tree species.
The cascade style of bonsai tree grows with its trunk flowing downward across the soil within its pot, and its branches reaching upward toward the sky. The semi-cascade style is different because it has been trained to grow with the trunk’s flow along one side of the pot rather than down the middle. This allows for a more dramatic look, as well as the ability to display a wider variety of tree species.
Regardless of which style you choose, growing a bonsai tree is a rewarding experience that will give you years of enjoyment.
Characteristics include…
Roots of the Semi-Cascade Bonsai Tree Style
To achieve the semi-cascade look, it is necessary to choose a tree that has either a straight trunk or one that already bends toward one side. The pot should be shallow and wider than deep in order to allow for the branches to reach upward without getting caught on the rim of the container. Taller trees work best with this style because they will have more branches to display, but it is possible to use a smaller tree if you prefer.
Tree Top of the Semi-Cascade Bonsai Tree Style
The tree top of the semi-cascade bonsai should be allowed to develop as it wishes, and you will need to clip off all lower branches that do not contribute to the tree’s design. The trunk should be allowed to grow straight down or along the front side of the pot, and any branches on this side should be clipped off. On the opposite side, you can allow all branches to remain intact, but keep them thinned out so that they appear airy and voluminous.
Tree Trunk of the Semi-Cascade Bonsai Tree Style
The tree trunk of a semi-cascade bonsai is one of its most important features. It should be straight or bent toward one side, and it should be thick enough to support the weight of the branches. The pot should be shallow and wider than deep in order to allow for the branches to reach upward without getting caught on the rim of the container.
Branches of the Semi-Cascade Bonsai Tree Style
The branches of the semi-cascade bonsai should be allowed to grow in any direction that they wish. They should be thinned out so that they do not overshadow the trunk or other branches, and you may need to clip them off if they grow too close to the pot. The goal is to create a tree that looks natural and airy, with plenty of branches reaching upward toward the sky.
Soil and Watering Needs of the Semi-Cascade Bonsai Tree Style
Watering a semi-cascade bonsai is easy as long as you choose a pot that has drainage holes. You should then fill the container to the brim with soil, and allow it to drain for several minutes before adding water. The leaves may look wilted after watering but they will perk up again once the roots have been properly nourished.
For soil, you can use a mixture of bonsai potting mix and organic compost to keep the roots healthy and well-nourished.
Reason Why You Choose the Semi-Cascade Bonsai Tree Style
The semi-cascade bonsai tree style is perfect for anyone who wants to create a dramatic effect in their home or garden.
- It can be used to display a wide variety of tree species, and the roots are easy to care for.
- The tree top can be allowed to grow in any direction that it pleases, and the branches should be thinned out so that they do not overshadow the trunk or other branches.
- The trunk can be straight or bent toward one side, and it should be thick enough to support the weight of the branches. The pot can be shallow and wider than deep in order to allow for the branches to reach upward without getting caught on the rim of the container.
- Watering a semi-cascade bonsai is easy as long as you choose a pot that has drainage holes. You can then fill the container to the brim with soil, and allow it to drain for several minutes before adding water.
- The leaves may look wilted after watering but they will perk up again once the roots have been properly nourished.
- You can use a mixture of bonsai potting mix and organic compost to keep the roots healthy and well-nourished.
Styles include Wisteria, Mountain Pine, Chinese Juniper, Any Ficus Tree, Japanese White Pine, Star Jasmine, Scotch Pine, Willows, Chrysanthemums and Any Coniferous Tree.
- Wisteria – A cascading bonsai tree with fragrant blooms that can grow up to 25 feet long.
- Mountain Pine – A tall and stately tree that is perfect for a bonsai enthusiast who wants a challenge.
- Chinese Juniper – One of the most popular trees for bonsai, it has a natural appearance and is easy to care for.
- Any Ficus Tree – A variety of fig trees are available, and all make beautiful bonsai trees.
- Japanese White Pine – This tree is popular for its soft needles and symmetrical shape.
- Star Jasmine – A fragrant vine that is perfect for growing in a container.
- Scotch Pine – One of the most popular trees for Christmas bonsai, it has a natural appearance and is easy to care for.
- Willows – A variety of willow trees are available, and all make beautiful bonsai trees.
- Chrysanthemums – These flowers come in a variety of colors and make a beautiful addition to any bonsai collection.
- Coniferous Trees – A variety of coniferous trees are available, including pines, spruces, and firs.
When choosing a bonsai tree, it is important to select the one that is best suited for your skill level and experience. The semi-cascade bonsai tree style is perfect for anyone who wants to create a dramatic effect in their home or garden.
It can be used to display a wide variety of tree species, and the roots are easy to care for. The tree top can be allowed to grow in any direction that it pleases, and the branches should be thinned out so that they do not overshadow the trunk or other branches.
The trunk can be straight or bent toward one side, and it should be thick enough to support the weight of the branches. The pot can be shallow and wider than deep in order to allow for the branches to reach upward without getting caught on the rim of the container.
In order to create a semi-cascade bonsai tree, you will need to begin by training the trunk to grow in the desired direction. You can do this by gently bending the trunk while it is still young and pliable, or by using wires to help shape it. Once the trunk has been trained in the desired direction, you can start to train the branches.
3. Informal Upright Bonsai Tree Style
The informal upright bonsai tree style is characterized by a trunk that grows straight up from the soil with only subtle curves. There are no large bends in the trunk, which can result in an open appearance. Branches are evenly spaced along the entire length of the trunk.
Informal upright bonsai trees are often used to display stunning bark patterns and colors. The look is very natural with little to no trimming. There are several varieties in this style including S-shaped trunks, twin trunks, and straight trunks.
Characteristics include…
Roots of the Informal Upright Bonsai Tree Style
The roots of the informal upright bonsai tree style are very important in creating the natural look of the tree. The roots should be visible and extend out from the pot in all directions. The surface of the soil should also be visible, giving the appearance that the tree is growing naturally in the earth.
Tree Tip of the Informal Upright Bonsai Tree Style
The tree tip of the informal upright bonsai tree style should be shaped like a cone. The apex of the cone should be pointing upwards. The trunk should taper smoothly from the root to the apex.
Branch Placement of the Informal Upright Bonsai Tree Style
The branches of the informal upright bonsai tree style should be evenly spaced along the entire length of the trunk. They should also be positioned in a natural way, extending out from the trunk in all directions. The branches should never be crowded together and should always be visible.
Trunk of the Informal Upright Bonsai Tree Style
The trunk of the informal upright bonsai tree style should be straight and grow vertically from the soil. There should be no large curves in the trunk, which can create an open appearance. The trunk should taper smoothly from the root to the apex.
Soil of the Informal Upright Bonsai Tree Style
The soil of the informal upright bonsai tree style should be dark and rich. It should provide excellent drainage to prevent root rot, but retain enough moisture to keep the tree healthy.
Reasons to Choose The Informal Upright Bonsai Style
The informal upright bonsai style is a great choice for beginner and experienced bonsai enthusiasts alike. It is easy to care for and does not require a lot of trimming. The natural look of the tree is perfect for displaying beautiful bark patterns and colors.
- Stunning Look – The informal upright bonsai style is characterized by a trunk that grows straight up from the soil with only subtle curves. There are no large bends in the trunk, which can result in an open appearance. Branches are evenly spaced along the entire length of the trunk.
- Natural Appearance – The roots of the tree should be visible and extend out from the pot in all directions. The surface of the soil should also be visible, giving the appearance that the tree is growing naturally in the earth.
- Shaped Like a Cone – The tree tip of the informal upright bonsai tree style should be shaped like a cone. The apex of the cone should be pointing upwards. The trunk should taper smoothly from the root to the apex.
Informal Upright Bonsai Tree Style Tips
- When styling an informal upright bonsai tree, the first step is to begin with a healthy tree. To grow the best trees, use good bonsai soil and plant your trees in their permanent location after they are fully established.
- Decide on the desired height of the informal upright bonsai tree style. Begin by growing or training branches accordingly. Use wire to shape future bends in the trunk.
- For the informal upright bonsai tree style, most trunks are grown in a straight line using what is called field-growing. In the field-growing method, trees are planted in their permanent location and allowed to grow unrestricted by anything except weeds.
The styles include White Pine, Trident Maple, Beech, Pomegranate, Juniper, Japanese Maple, Crab Apple.
- White Pine – The white pine is a great choice for the informal upright bonsai tree style because it has a straight trunk and branches that grow evenly spaced along the length of the trunk.
- Trident Maple – The trident maple has a unique shape that makes it perfect for the informal upright bonsai tree style. It has a long, thin trunk with branches that grow at all different angles.
- Beech – The beech has a very straight trunk, which grows directly upwards from the soil in perfect alignment with the roots. This makes it ideal for an informal upright bonsai tree style.
- Pomegranate – The pomegranate is one of three trees you can use to create the informal upright bonsai tree style. It has a thick trunk with lots of branches that grow in all directions.
- Juniper – The juniper is a popular choice for the informal upright bonsai tree style because it has a very straight trunk and grows small, twiggy branches.
- Japanese Maple – The Japanese maple is another popular choice for the informal upright bonsai tree style. This tree has smooth skin and a trunk that is thin and straight.
- Crab Apple – The crab apple also has a straight trunk, which makes it perfect for the informal upright bonsai tree style. It is easier to grow than most other trees, which makes it ideal for beginners.
With the informal upright bonsai tree style, it is important to start with a healthy, strong tree. The trunk should be straight and the branches evenly spaced. The tree can be trimmed and shaped to create the desired look, but avoid excessive trimming as this will weaken the tree. Fertilize regularly and water thoroughly when needed.
Caring for an informal upright bonsai tree requires moderate skills and training, but this style is easier than formal upright. Applying wire or attaching moss might be necessary to add interest.
Because the trunk lacks curves, it will not develop many shari (stripes) in nature although you can create them with wiring. The bark color should be present throughout the entire tree.
Informal upright bonsai trees will hold their leaves longer than some other styles and they can be part of a multi-trunk design meaning there is no need to prune back to one trunk.
The informal upright bonsai tree style provides an open look that is very natural and good for displaying bark colors. The open appearance is well suited for trees with shari (stripes) in their bark.
4. Formal Upright Bonsai Tree Style
The formal upright bonsai tree style is similar to the basic style, but the branches are more symmetrical and evenly spaced. The trunk is also more tapered, and the overall appearance is more refined.
Formal upright bonsai trees look great in rock gardens. These plants have a sophisticated appearance that can fit into any area. Formal upright bonsai trees are great for making cascades or layers, too. Just make sure to keep the branches well-balanced.
Formal Upright Trunk
The trunk of a formal upright bonsai tree is more tapered than a basic style. This gives the tree a more refined appearance.
Formal Upright Branches
The branches of a formal upright bonsai tree are more symmetrical and evenly spaced than those of a basic style. This makes the tree look more balanced and formal.
Formal Upright Appearance
A formal upright bonsai tree has a more sophisticated appearance than a basic style. The branches are symmetrical and evenly spaced, and the trunk is more tapered. This makes the tree look great in rock gardens or any other area. Formal upright bonsai trees are also great for making cascades or layers.
Formal Upright Tree Top
The tree top of a formal upright bonsai tree is more symmetrical and evenly spaced than a basic style. This gives the tree a more balanced and formal appearance.
Formal Upright Roots
Formal upright bonsai trees have more evenly spaced and symmetrical roots than a basic tree style. This makes the tree look balanced and formal.
Formal Upright Trunk
The trunk of a formal upright bonsai is more tapered than that of a basic style. This gives the tree an appearance that is more refined
More Information About Formal Upright
Formally trained bonsai trees are generally more expensive than those trained in other ways. But many growers prefer this style because it is more pleasing to the eye and easier to maintain than a wild-looking bonsai tree.
Formal upright bonsai trees can be easily combined with other styles, such as formal layered or broom styles. The basic requirements for growing a formal upright bonsai tree are the same as for any other style: plenty of sunlight, good drainage, and proper watering.
Formal upright bonsai trees are a great addition to any garden or landscape. With their refined appearance and easy-to-maintain branches, these plants are perfect for anyone who wants a beautiful bonsai tree without having to do much work.
The styles include Spruce, Pine, Maple and Juniper.
- Spruce – The Spruce style is a very popular bonsai tree. This type has a straight, symmetrical trunk with evenly spaced branches.
- Pine – The Pine style is similar to the Spruce style, but the branches are more wild and irregular.
- Maple – The Maple style is characterized by its thin, delicate trunk and graceful branches.
- Juniper – The Juniper style is the most popular bonsai tree in the world. It has a thick, sturdy trunk and branches that are covered with needles.
Benefits of Choosing the Formal Upright
- The formal upright bonsai tree style is more refined and symmetrical than the basic style.
- These plants look great in any area, including rock gardens and areas with limited space.
- The branches are easy to maintain and can be easily combined with other styles.
- The roots are evenly spaced and symmetrical, making the tree look balanced and formal.
- The tree top is symmetrical, giving the tree a balanced appearance.
- This style of bonsai tree requires similar care to other styles, so it can be easily maintained.
Formal Upright Style Summary
Formally trained bonsai trees are easier to maintain than wild-looking bonsai trees because the branches and roots are more symmetrical and evenly spaced than other styles.
Formal upright bonsai trees require similar care to other bonsai styles, so they can be easily maintained. These plants look great in rock gardens or any other area, including areas with limited space. With their refined appearance and easy-to-maintain branches, formal upright bonsai trees are perfect for anyone who wants a beautiful bonsai tree without having to do much work.
5. Slanting Bonsai Tree Style
The slanting bonsai tree style is similar to the informal upright, but the trunk is angled at about 45 degrees from the soil. This style can be used for many different types of trees, but it works best for trees with a naturally slanting trunk. Pine, maple, oak or any tree with a trunk which grows toward the light is good for this style.
The slanting bonsai can be styled to look like it’s falling backward or leaning forward. The choice of angle depends on the desired effect. If you plan to lean your tree slightly toward yourself then you will want to select an angle which leans toward you. The same holds true if you want to make your tree appear like it’s falling away; the trunk should be angled in the opposite direction.
Characteristics include…
Roots of the Slanting Bonsai Tree Style
The roots of a slanting bonsai style are best displayed on the side closer to you. If your tree appears to be leaning away from you then angle or place the pot so that it is easier for you to see and appreciate the roots on the opposite side.
Tree Top of the Slanting Bonsai Tree Style
The tree top should be maintained in a horizontal position. If you let the tree grow too tall then it will begin to look unbalanced and sloppy. Pinch or cut back the branches to maintain a tidy appearance.
Branches of the Slanting Bonsai Tree Style
Your slanting bonsai tree will be able to hold more detailed branches if grown in this style. Some of the most beautiful styles are those which have been developed with this type of trunk and branching.
Trunk of the Slanting Bonsai Tree Style
A trunk may be developed entirely around the slant or the trunk may begin straight and then angle off at an appropriate place. If you choose to develop your trunk in this manner it will be necessary to select a straight portion of the trunk which is slightly larger than required so that it can be reduced as the tree matures.
Watering and Soil for the Slanting Bonsai Tree Style
Watering the slanting bonsai is fairly simple. Water often enough to keep the soil moist, but never soak the tree. Once you’ve watered your tree, wait until the soil begins to dry before watering again.
All soils for bonsai should be well draining and not retain too much water. The best way to test your soil is to pour water on it and if the water drains through in around one minute then you have good draining soil.
Pruning & Fertilizing for the Slanting Bonsai Tree Style
Pruning should be considered carefully because the slanting bonsai style allows for easier viewing of branches, twigs and needles. Pruning should be used to direct the growth of the tree and to keep it in balance.
Fertilizing is also an important part of maintaining your slanting bonsai tree. Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
Reason to Choose The Slanting Bonsai Style
The slanting bonsai tree style is a good choice for anyone who wants to show off the natural beauty of their tree. This style is also good for beginners because it is easy to care for and does not require a lot of pruning. The slanting trunk also lends itself to some beautiful branch and needle arrangements.
- The shape is popular – there are many bonsai enthusiasts who choose to style their trees in this way. It is an informal style which can be used for a variety of different types of trees.
- Trunk can either be bent or straight – if you choose to develop your trunk in a curved manner then it is important to select a section which is slightly larger than necessary so that it can be reduced as the tree matures.
- Branches can be pinched or cut back to maintain a horizontal shape – this style allows for more detailed branches to be grown.
- Watering and soil is simple – water often enough to keep the soil moist but never soak the tree. Soil should be well draining and not retain too much water.
The styles include Juniper, Any Coniferous Tree, Beech, Crab Apple, Japanese White Pine, Trident Maple and Japanese Cedar.
- Juniper – Make sure that the juniper does not dry out. Water as necessary.
- Any Coniferous Tree – If you are using an evergreen tree which sheds needles then make sure to water on a regular basis and not allow it to dry out too much.
- Beech – Make sure that the beech is watered regularly, but never soak the tree.
- Crab Apple – The crab apple can be difficult to maintain because it is a water lover. Make sure to water on a regular basis, and if the tree begins to lose its leaves then you are probably not watering enough.
- Japanese White Pine – The Japanese white pine does not require a lot of water and can withstand periods of drought. Always make sure that you wait until the soil begins to dry before watering again.
- Trident Maple – This tree likes a lot of water and can be difficult to maintain, so it is best to try and style another type of tree in this fashion if at all possible.
- Japanese Cedar – The Japanese cedar is incredibly easy to care for and does not require a lot of water. It is a good tree to use for the slanting bonsai style.
This style is often used for cascading bonsai trees. A cascade bonsai tree is grafted onto a straight trunk in order to give the illusion of falling over. A number of common trees are used for this purpose. If you have a tree which naturally cascades, it would be ideal for this style.
A slanting bonsai can also be used to form many different styles. Some artists use the slanted style to create formal upright or cascade bonsai trees by placing them in containers with different angles. It can also be used as a literati bonsai tree by simply letting the trunk grow straight up and the branches fall naturally to one side.
The slanting bonsai is not difficult to maintain because it requires less wire than other styles. A few minor changes will need to be made if you plan on using this style for cascading bonsai. Roots will need to be wrapped around the pot’s drainage holes in order to prevent them from getting clogged.
After your slanting bonsai is set up you will need to maintain it like any other style. The angle of the trunk makes this tree more difficult to wire than some others, but that shouldn’t be a problem if you use the proper techniques. If your slanting bonsai appears to have too much foliage then simply remove some of it to create the look that you want.
This slanting bonsai style is not extremely difficult, but it does take up more room than other styles. The angle of the trunk creates a wider base and makes it difficult to fit into a small pot. If you have the space then this is a good style to use because it can create some very interesting effects.
Conclusion
When it comes to training your bonsai tree, there are many different techniques that you can use. The most important thing is to be patient and to take your time. If you rush the process, you will likely end up with a tree that does not look its best.
You need to decide on the style you want. The branches of a bonsai tree should be carefully trained to grow in the correct direction. This will require some patience and a lot of time, but the results will be well worth your efforts. Just remember that growing bonsai is all about creating beauty from humble beginnings.
