Bonsai (pronounced “bone-sigh”) is more than tiny trees. It is an art that the Japanese have perfected, originally from the Chinese art form of penjing (dating back to the 6th century). True “bonsai” refers to miniaturized, container-grown trees that adhere to Japanese tradition and principles of pruning and training. Any perennial woody-stemmed tree or shrub can be created as bonsai – through pot confinement and crown and root pruning. These are not to be mistaken with dwarfing, as these trees have not been genetically engineered or bred to be dwarfed; these are trees from regular stock and seeds.

This past week, I was in Western North Carolina, deep in the Blue Ridge Mountains, with my future in-laws and we took a trip to the NC Arboretum in Asheville. The Arboretum has a bonsai section and I have posted some pictures of that trip dedicated to their bonsai section. It is truly fascinating seeing local North Carolina trees that are normally so tall and wide be miniaturized and “fully grown”.

The following images are of natural scenes with more than just one type of “bonsai” that are used to create a moment in time. Japan is known for art that draws inspiration from nature.

I hope you enjoyed these photos. If you ever get the chance to check out bonsai and real life, I highly recommend it! Now time for me to make like a tree, and leaf!