Scientific Name: Pinus thunbergii
Common Name: Japanese Black Pine

Japanese Black Pine is said to be the king of bonsai. The rough, flaky bark and dark green needles show great strength even in a small tree. A large powerful base and undulating trunk are keys to a dynamic and exciting tree.

At one time, it was common practice to starve the tree of water and fertilizer to develop smaller needles that were more in scale with the size of the tree. In recent years, new methods have been developed to create smaller needles in a much healthier tree.

The tree pictured here is about 8-10 years old. It was field grown specifically for bonsai. As a seedling movement was introduced to the trunk using wire, and branches were carefully selected and allowed to grow in the proper places. The tree was potted into a nursery can 2-3 years ago and was finally placed in its first bonsai pot this spring. It will take another year or two of work before this one can be shown, but I think you'll agree it is well on its way.