However, not all bonsai trees are created equal, and some are better suited
for beginners than others. In this article, we will explore some of the most
popular bonsai species for beginners, including Juniper, Chinese Elm, Ficus,
and more, and what makes them ideal for those just starting out on their
bonsai journey. Let's take a look at some of the most popular species:
Table Of Contents (toc)
Juniper
Juniper bonsai are a great choice for beginners because they are hardy,
adaptable, and forgiving. They also grow relatively quickly, which means
that you can see results from your efforts relatively quickly.
Juniper bonsai is a popular choice for beginners and experienced bonsai
enthusiasts alike. The tree has a distinctive appearance with its
needle-like foliage and gnarled, twisted branches. The leaves are typically
green or blue-green in color and are arranged in clusters along the
branches.
The bark is rough and scaly, with a reddish-brown color. The tree can grow
up to 25 feet tall in the wild, but when grown as a bonsai, it is usually
kept to a smaller size, between 6 and 18 inches. When styled properly, the
juniper bonsai can have a graceful and elegant appearance, making it a
prized addition to any bonsai collection.
Chinese Elm
Chinese Elm bonsai are also a great choice for beginners. They are
relatively easy to care for, and they have a beautiful, gnarled bark that
gives them a lot of character.
A Chinese Elm bonsai typically has a vase-shaped structure with a small
trunk that leads to many branches that spread out in a graceful manner. The
leaves of the Chinese Elm bonsai are small and serrated, and they have a
dark green color with a slightly glossy finish.
The bark of the Chinese Elm bonsai is often textured with patches of gray,
green, and orange, and it can have an attractive mottled appearance. The
Chinese Elm bonsai also produces small, winged fruits in the fall, which can
add to the tree's visual interest.
Ficus
Ficus bonsai are another popular choice for beginners. They are known for
their beautiful, glossy leaves and their ability to grow quickly. They also
tolerate a wide range of lighting conditions, which makes them a good choice
for indoor bonsai.
A Ficus bonsai is a popular choice among bonsai enthusiasts due to its small
leaves, dense foliage, and impressive aerial roots that give it a unique
appearance. The trunk of a Ficus bonsai is thick and sturdy, with a bark
that ranges from smooth and gray to rough and textured.
The leaves are oval-shaped, small and glossy, and typically grow in dense
clusters on the branches. Ficus bonsai trees can range in size from small
shohin bonsai to larger bonsai that are several feet tall. Some Ficus
species also produce small figs, adding to the tree's unique and attractive
appearance.
Dwarf Schefflera
Dwarf Schefflera, also known as Hawaiian Umbrella Tree, is another great
option for beginners. They have small leaves, which makes them easy to
manage, and they respond well to pruning and shaping.
Dwarf Schefflera, also known as Schefflera arboricola, is a popular species
for bonsai enthusiasts due to its beautiful foliage and ease of care. The
leaves are small and shiny, with a glossy texture that reflects light
well.
The leaves are arranged in an alternate pattern along the stem and have a
dark green color. The trunk is usually thick and gnarled, with a rough
texture that adds character to the bonsai.
The branches are often twisted and contorted, giving the tree a unique
appearance. Overall, the Dwarf Schefflera bonsai is a compact and elegant
tree that adds a touch of natural beauty to any indoor or outdoor space.
These are just a few of the most popular species for beginners, but there
are many others to choose from as well. When selecting a species for your
first bonsai, it's important to choose one that is relatively forgiving and
easy to care for, so that you can build your skills and confidence as you
go.
