Bonsai, as an important part of traditional Chinese art, attracts numerous enthusiasts with its unique aesthetic interest and profound cultural heritage. In the creation of bonsai, choosing the right plants is essential. This article will introduce the commonly used plant types in bonsai and analyze their respective characteristics and charm.
Pine plantsPine plants are commonly used materials for making bonsai, loved for their evergreen nature and various forms. Common pine bonsai plants include five-needle pine, black pine, white pine, etc. Pine tree bonsai have a style of magnificence and simplicity, which can show the power and vitality of nature.
Bamboo plantsBamboo plants are widely used in bonsai. Their unique nodes, verdant leaves, and graceful posture give bamboo bonsai high ornamental value. Common bamboo bonsai plants include Phyllostachys edulis,孝顺竹, Zizania caduciflora, etc. Bamboo bonsai give a fresh and natural feeling, making them excellent for home decoration.
Plum plantsPlum plants are also widely used in bonsai and are known as "gentlemen among flowers." Plum bonsai have a pure and noble character, often appearing as one of the "Four Gentlemen" in bonsai, which are plum, orchid, bamboo, and chrysanthemum. Common plum bonsai plants include red plum, white plum, green plum, etc.
Ginkgo plantsGinkgo plants are rare materials for making bonsai, loved for their unique leaf shape, tree form, and the implication of longevity. Ginkgo bonsai have a style of simplicity and elegance, often used to express reverence and praise for life. Common ginkgo bonsai plants include ginkgo, white fruit, etc.
Aquatic plantsAquatic plants are also gaining attention in bonsai, such as lotus, water lily, Eichhornia crassipes, etc. Aquatic plant bonsai give a sense of tranquility and indifference, suitable for placement in courtyards or indoors.
Other plantsBesides the above plants, many other plants can be used to make bonsai, such as cercis, wisteria, osmanthus, peony, etc. These plants each have their own characteristics, meeting different aesthetic needs.
There are many types of plants in the art of bonsai, and each plant has its unique charm. Choosing the right plant can make the bonsai work more ornamental and valuable. When creating bonsai, full consideration should be given to the plant's growth habits, morphological characteristics, and other factors to create excellent bonsai works.
References:
《Chinese Bonsai Art》, China Forestry Publishing House, 2019.
《Bonsai Making and Appreciation》, Shanghai Science and Technology Publishing House, 2018.