Each time I visit the Golden State Bonsai Federation’s Bonsai Garden at Lake Merritt, different trees catch my attention. The last time I stopped by, some of the larger trees struck me as looking good. Bigger isn’t necessarily better, but larger-sized bonsai do have a few advantages. For example, it’s easier for the trunk of a large […]
Excursions
Excursion posts feature visits to bonsai gardens in the U.S. and in Japan, visits to the Kyoto's Most Renown Gardens, and trips into the mountains to see junipers and pines in their natural setting.
Highlights from the Green Club – shimpaku
A highlight from the Green Club in 2014 – shimpaku. Shimpaku Junipers are prized for movement in the trunk, particularly twists, and deadwood. By this standard this is a good tree. A really good tree. The lifelines and deadwood are fascinating and the foliage is well positioned. The pot details make a good compliment to […]
Highlights from the Green Club – shohin black pine
Another highlight from the Green Club in 2014 – shohin black pine. Shohin black pine The Green Club typically features lots of shohin black pine ranging in price between $1,000 and $5,000. Using today’s exchange rate, this tree was on offer for about $4,000. What contributes to the price? The trunk nearly fills the pot – […]
Highlights from the Green Club – Japanese maple
A highlight from the Green Club in 2014 – Japanese maple. Japanese maple Several things come to mind when appreciating this maple. I’m not sure of the variety, but there’s a chance it’s a sub-variety. If this is the case, the ramification is good. It also looks like the tree could be on the young side […]
Highlights from the Green Club – black pine
Another highlight from the Green Club in 2014 – Black pine. Black pine To say this tree has a massive trunk is an understatement. It’s like someone dreamed of a tree with near excessive taper and it suddenly appeared. The bark is good, not great, and the branches are young. Filling in the silhouette with […]