Bonsai, an art form originating from Japan, is notably more structured compared to its Chinese counterpart, penjing. Bonsai aims to attain an idealized tree form, while penjing seeks to emulate the natural world. Consequently, bonsai adheres to prescribed "rules" to achieve perfect styling, while penjing grants greater creative freedom. As a result, various basic styles emerge within bonsai and penjing:
Broom (Hokidachi or Hoki-zukuri)
A harmonious style characterized by branches growing at a specific height, forming an inverted broom shape. This style is typically accomplished through a technique known as the "V" cut. The trunk is pruned at the desired branch initiation point, followed by a deep V cut on the remaining trunk, encouraging bud development near the cut. Zelkova serrata is a well-known example of this style, although it can also be applied to maple and other deciduous species.
Formal Upright (Chokkan)
In this style, the tree features a straight trunk gracefully tapering from bottom to top. The largest branch is usually positioned around one-third of the desired tree height and is located on either the right or left side. The subsequent branch is placed on the opposite side, while the third branch is positioned at the back, creating an illusion of depth. The branches become progressively thinner as they ascend, forming a pyramidal shape.
Informal Upright (Moyogi)
Similar to the formal upright style, the same design principles apply, except the trunk exhibits sinuous, tapered characteristics. This style is commonly employed with coniferous trees.
Slanting (Shakan)
Much like the formal upright style, the trunk displays an incline to one side. Branches are evenly distributed along the trunk, following the formal/informal upright style, but the apex tilts in the opposite direction, creating visual balance.
Cascade (Kengai)
This style entails an inclined trunk, ideally at a 45-degree angle. The majority of foliage extends below the pot's rim, often reaching beyond the pot itself. This style often evokes the image of a tree growing on the side of a cliff and requires a deep pot.
Semi-cascade (Han-Kengai)
Similar to the cascade style, this style features an inclined trunk, but the foliage remains at the height of the pot's rim. In nature, this style can be observed near waterways, with foliage leaning towards the water. It typically utilizes a medium-depth pot.
Windswept (Fukinagashi)
Representing a tree shaped by natural elements, the "windswept" style often results from strong winds. The trunk inclines consistently in one direction, and all branches grow on the same side.
Literati (Bunjin)
Often depicted in Japanese paintings, this style showcases a tall, sinuous trunk with foliage concentrated near the tree's summit. Unlike other bonsai styles, literati does not adhere to strict rules, reflecting the spirit of freedom associated with the bunjin movement in Japan.
Group/Forest (Yose-ue)
This style typically represents a forest or a small cluster of trees. It is designed to mimic the growth patterns of trees in a group, employing various techniques and perception strategies to create the illusion of a forest. To adhere to Japanese tradition, an odd number of trees is preferred in this style.
Raft (Ikadabuki)
Following the same principles as group planting, the raft style features multiple trunks emerging from a common base. This technique often involves a vertically placed branch in the soil, with roots forming around it, and secondary branches developing into trunks.
Multi-trunk Style (Sokan - Sankan)
In the multi-trunk style, there are different variations. Sokan comprises two trunks emerging from the same visible roots (nebari), while Sankan features three trunks arising from the visible roots. Although more trunks can be used, adhering to the tradition of Japanese bonsai favors an odd number of trunks.
Roots Over Rock (Ishitsuki)
This style is characterized by visible roots that grow over a rock and extend their way into the pot or soil, creating a distinctive visual effect.
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