Species
The basic requirement for keeping and developing bonsai is knowing the species and its needs. Although in theory every tree species that is woody, and perannual, can be used to grow bonsai, some are used more frequently than others. Some indication of the species often used for bonsai you can find here.
Use the identification tool to figure out which species you have:
Tree identification tool by Growing Bonsai
- The tree was bought in a mall, hardware store or similar
- I have a Broadleaf species
- I have a Coniferous species
Field maple for bonsai
Field maples are often found in hedges and along countryside lanes. Their leaves reduce well. Unfortunately the branches do not ramify as fine as some of the Japanese maples and it is for this they are fairly uncommon as bonsai.
Read More
Taxus baccata and cuspidata
Many tree species are used as bonsai. Identification is at times dificult and keeping track of the treatment even more so. In this article we look at Taxus as a family for bonsai and how to care of them, as part of our section on shot-needled conifers for bonsai.
Read More
Ulmus parvifolia
Ulmus parviflora for bonsai
. Is a great species for people that want fine twigs and tight foliage.
Ficus microcarpa
Ficus microcarpa as bonsai
. Sold by the thousands daily, the typical ficus retusa / micropcarpa is not per se a good plant for bonsai. However, when working these species, some excellent plants can be grown.
