Penzai is an ancient Chinese practice of growing small plants in pots. Penzai literally translates to "tray scenery", but loosely means potted landscape. The practice moved through Asia and eventually into Japan. Bonsai trees, a Japanese pronunciation of Penzai, became popular during the Heian period in 794 to 1185.
The tree is of no use other than decorative. It is supposed to be contemplative for the viewer and an exercise in effort and ingenuity for the grower. There is no food or medicinal purposes for these plants. There are also no large-scale landscapes. As a result, the practice of Bonsai is very narrow and focused on one or a few plants in a pot.
This is so important in Japan that one of the oldest known living specimens is considered a National Treasure. It is thought to be at least 500 years old. It is on display in the Tokyo Imperial Palace.
They can be made with nearly any material. As long as it is perennial and has woody growth, it can be made into one. It also should branch and remain small in containment with root and crown pruning.
There are some favorites in this form though. These have characteristics that make them visually appealing on the compact scope of these miniature landscapes. These characteristics usually include small leaves or needles. Some favorites include ficus, because it is easy to grow, many of the evergreen trees, because of their unique wood textures and small needles.
To start one, the grower needs source material to train into a Bonsai. This material can come from a number of places. This is one of the few forms of plant propagation that does not succeed well from seed. Since the ultimate goal of Bonsai is a weathered and aged appearance, source material is often partially grown or even mature.
The list of techniques used in creating one is long. These techniques are not necessarily difficult, but they can take a lifetime to master. Pruning the roots, branches and trunk are the first steps. This lays out the general shape of the tree. Leaf trimming further refines this shape. Wiring and clamping use rigid materials to train the growth in the desired shape. If the tree doesn't naturally conform to the desired shape, grafting can be used to insert a piece of growing foliage in a desired spot. Defoliation can be used when leaves are too large, and new small leaves are desired. Removing the bark from a branch or trunk to give the appearance of deadwood is also employed.
Bonsai trees can be beautiful sculpture to contemplate, a lifelong hobby, or both. The rich history and cultural significance make them a lovely addition to any home or garden.