Brief History of Bonsai

Bonsai are miniature-size trees grown in containers. The Chinese grew their medicinal plants this way, making it easy to transport them.

The Bonsai art form was originally developed thousands of years ago by the Chinese. Inspired by myths and legends, the shapes of the plants were often mistaken for animals such as a serpent or a dragon. These plants were grown inside pots but were placed in the outdoor garden. The were referred to originally as "pun-sai."

The practice of growing a tree specimen in a pot was adopted by the Japanese about the 7th century. During this period, Zen Buddhism was spreading throughout Asia. The plants were first limited to Buddhist monasteries. Soon, the more affluent Japanese started to prize the plants. They become a symbol of honor and prestige in the Japanese culture.

First, in Chinese culture, bonsai plants were placed in outdoor gardens. The Japanese originated the concept of growing Bonsai indoors and thus displaying them in their homes.

In the 18th century, the Japanese art of Bonsai reached its peak. The manicured, carefully pruned trees were highly prized and Bonsai became an established art form in other parts of the world.

There are a number of different styles and different techniques for pruning the plants. Among the different styles are the slant, formal upright, informal upright, raft, literati, cascade, semi-cascade, and the forest or group. These techniques continue to be refined today by artisans working in this art form. The Japanese continued the tradition of small by introducing the concept of bon-kei, small buildings as an art form.

The art of bonsai is practiced in China where it is known as "penjing." Bonsai, is of course, the Japanese term, and in Korea the art form is known as "bunjae."

Bonsai exhibitions have been held in many capital cities around the world. These exhibitions attract experts and enthusiasts wanting to get started in this great art form.

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