Bonsai tree

This Eastern white pine (Pinus Strobus) was donated to the Chicago Botanic Garden by Jim Doyle (Nature’s Way Nursery). The photo is by Steve Moore (Bonsai in Hoosierland).

Common but very uncommon

There are three things that I find striking about this tree: first, it’s an Eastern white pine, a tree that you almost never see as a bonsai, even though it’s quite common here in the Northeast. Second, it’s skinny but old (the bark gives it away). Another rarity when it comes to Eastern white pines. Third, it’s a good bunjin bonsai, healthy and understated, with just enough graceful movement to please the eye. Even the long shaggy needles are so delicate, soft and vibrant, that their length isn’t really a problem (these long shaggy needles is one reason you almost never see Pinus strobus bonsai). Maybe this tree will serve as an inspiration to others and we’ll see more Eastern white pine bonsai in the future.

This short post wraps up another year of Bonsai Barking. Thank you for sticking with us over the last three years (that’s about 500 posts worth). May your bonsai be healthy and beautiful and may you enjoy a Happy, healthy and prosperous New Year!

Source: Bonsai Bark