The art of Bonsai originated in Asia many centuries ago. The literal translation of bonsai is plantings in tray, from bon, a tray or low-sided pot and sai, a planting. When the tree is planted, it is intentionally placed in the dish to form a harmonious unit where the shape, texture and color of the tree compliments the container. The bonsai is shaped, twig by twig, into an aesthetic image. This shaping requires constant pruning and trimming.
This bonsai was in full bloom when photographed at the Chicago Botanic Garden in early July. Approximately 15 inches tall, the blossoms nearly hide the tree’s foliage.
The Botanic Garden has a world-famous collection of over 200 bonsai, all professionally trimmed and pruned by horticulturists. The treesĀ are placed in the outside courtyard exhibit when they are at their peak. For more information on the Botanic Garden’s bonsai collection, the Gardens website has a page devoted exclusively to the bonsai.
———————
Bo Mackison is a photographer and the owner of Seeded Earth Studio LLC. She is back in the suburbs of Chicago this weekend, exhibiting her photography at the Buffalo Grove Invitational Art Fair.
I always thought bonsai was just green,not with this rich flowery blossom, I love it a lot
It’s a beautiful bonus, all those pink flowers!
My, is that ever pretty! Bonsai always seems awesome to me, but especially so with the blossoms!
The blossoms are great, I love them too.