Bonsai trees are not a species, but an art form. They are small potted plants that are kept small by the process of stunting their growth. This is done by restricting the root environment, and pruning the leaves and roots as time progresses. Most bonsai artists shape the trunk and branches by using wire and other methods. You can start a bonsai tree from a seed, or an existing tree. The choices can be overwhelming for someone wanting to get into the art of bonsai. The first question is usually “Can any type of tree be a bonsai?”
The answer is YES! Any species of tree can be a bonsai tree! Though there are certain species that seem to perform better as a bonsai. These species are usually hardier than others and require certain types of soil, and roots tend to ball up rather than spread out. Most traditional bonsai are made up of Junipers, Maples, Ficus, and Boxwood. There are, however, many more common bonsai species.
Let’s go over some of our recommended species for your first bonsai!
Juniper Bonsai Trees
Junipers are the mascot of bonsai trees. They are the most common type and it’s mystery why. These whimsical evergreens are easy to maintain and stay beautiful year round.
Maple Bonsai Tree
Maples are the second most common type of bonsai. They don’t require much maintenance and you can grow them indoors or outdoors! The leaves can range from green, to yellow, to red. If grown outdoors, it’s best to keep them in shaded area.
Ficus Bonsai Trees
This species is probably the most common type of indoor bonsai. These hearty trees are beautiful and versatile.
Boxwood Bonsai Trees
These trees are best outdoors but are extremely resilient to cold weather, even able to survive frosts and snow, (although not recommended).
Cotoneaster Bonsai Trees
These bonsai trees can be both evergreen or deciduous, depending on the species. They are very common bonsai trees, most sought after for their flowers and berries.
Beech Bonsai Trees
Common in the UK, these bonsai trees are stunning. Slow to develop but hearty and strong.
While, as we stated above, any type of tree can indeed be a bonsai. We recommend starting with one of the species in this list. Check out our Beginner’s Bonsai Growing Guide to get started.
So which species will you choose?