The Bonsaï : strictly codified styles
Considered as an art form in Japan, bonsaï growing follows very formal aesthetic codes. Imagination is only tolerated after the fundamentals of the art have been fully assimilated.
For the purists, a perfect mastering of the art of bonsaï growing can only be achieved after having assimilated all the 'compulsory figures' of the traditional styles. These highly codified styles follow very strict aesthetic imperatives which represent forms of trees found growing in the open.
A bonsaï is not just a carbon copy of a normal tree - it should also be a reminder of the power of the tree. The most beautiful specimens must possess the essence of a normal tree in miniature. Although most bonsaï come in many styles, there are three main categories.
Bonsaïs with a single trunk
These are the ones most appreciated by the purists as they are the most difficult to grow. The trunk may be perfectly straight (Chokkan), it may have some curves (Tachiki), it may be leaning over as if it was bent by the wind (Shakan and Fukinagashi), it may be cascading as if it was growing on the side of a mountain (Kengai), in half-cascade (Han-Kengai), it may be twisting (Bankan), it may be bare and topped with massses of leaves like a pine (Bunjinji), it may have the shape of a brush (Hôkidachi), it may be split and devastated (Sabamiki), or sinuous (Takozukuri), etc..
Bonsaïs with multiple trunks
Each style has a specific name according to the number of trunks it possesses :
Sokan (2 trunks), Sankan (3 trunks), Gokan (5 trunks), Nanakan (7 trunks), Kyukan (9 trunks), and Tsukami-Yose (more than 9 trunks). Specificities complete the codification of every specimen. Trunks grouped on a single root are classed as Kabudachi, those on a stump with the form of a tortoise shell are classed as Kôrabuki, truks growing out of a sinuous root are classed as Nestsunagari, and trees lying down carrying new trunks with their branches are classed as Ikadabuki.
Bonsaïs planted in groups
The same pot contains several trees in order to recreate a landscape. The style carries a specific name according to the number of trees : Soju (2 trees), Sambon Yose (3 trees), Gohon Yose (5 trees), Nanahon Yose (7 trees), Kyuhon Yose (9 trees), and Yose-ue (more than 9 trees).
Other classifications for other styles of bonsaïs
Apart from the classification by style, there also exists a classification by size. Small bonsaï (from 5 to 15cms.) are called Mame or Shôhin, medium-sized bonsaï ( from 15 to 60 cms.)are called Kotate-mochi or Komono up to 30 cms. and Chumono up to 60 cms., and big bonsaï (from 60cms. to 120 cms. or more) are called Ömono.
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