What kind of trees win prizes at prestigious Japanese exhibits like Taikan-ten? Trees like the black pine below. Black pine This tree took top honors at this year’s Taikan-ten. The work is by Masahiko Kimura. What makes the tree special? Great health, great trunk and bark, great branch development and great balance in terms of […]
Japan
Needle juniper at 35th Taikan-ten
A few weeks ago I made a last minute decision to head to Japan to visit the 35th Taikan-ten held in Kyoto. I’m glad I did. Visiting exhibits in Japan provides a great opportunity to catch up with friends from around the world and to do a little bonsai-related shopping for tools, pots and accessories. […]
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 […]