New to bonsai or just need a quick refresher? This bonsai glossary is here to help. It covers the most common terms, tools, and techniques you’ll come across when growing and shaping bonsai trees—explained in plain language so you can learn and apply them with ease.
Whether you’re just starting out or have years of experience, it helps to revisit essential bonsai terms from time to time. This list breaks them down clearly so you can stop second-guessing and start applying what you know with more confidence.
A – acer palmatum, aggregate, air layering
acer palmatum
The Acer palmatum, or Japanese maple, is one of the most cherished species in bonsai art. Its delicate leaves and vibrant seasonal colors make it a stunning centerpiece in any bonsai collection.
aggregate
Aggregate refers to the coarse particles in bonsai soil mixtures that improve drainage and aeration. Proper aggregate balance is essential for healthy root development.
air layering
Air layering is a propagation method used to grow new trees from existing branches. It encourages roots to form while still attached to the parent plant.
akadama
Akadama is a type of volcanic clay commonly used in bonsai soil mixes. It retains moisture while allowing for good drainage, making it ideal for healthy bonsai roots.
anchoring
Anchoring is the process of securing a bonsai tree in its pot using wire or other methods. This ensures stability while roots grow and establish themselves.
apex
The apex is the topmost point of the bonsai tree, representing the peak of growth and design. Proper apex shaping contributes to the tree’s overall balance and style.
apical dominance
Apical dominance is the natural growth pattern where the main central stem grows more strongly than the side branches. Understanding this helps bonsai artists control growth and shape effectively.
B – back budding, banyan, bonkei
back budding
Back budding is when new buds emerge on older parts of branches or trunks. It’s essential for developing new growth where foliage is sparse or needed for design.
banyan
The banyan bonsai style mimics the iconic tropical tree with aerial roots and a massive trunk. It’s a dramatic style that reflects age, power, and natural complexity.
bonkei
Bonkei is a tray landscape art form related to bonsai but without living trees. It uses miniature figures and terrain to represent natural scenes in artistic displays.
bunjingi style
The bunjingi or literati style reflects trees that have grown in harsh conditions, often with tall, slender trunks and sparse branches. This elegant form symbolizes simplicity and perseverance.
buttressing
Buttressing refers to thick, flaring roots that appear at the base of a bonsai tree. These roots provide a sense of age, stability, and natural realism in design.
C – caliper measurement, candle pruning, chokkan
caliper measurement
Caliper measurement refers to the diameter of a bonsai tree’s trunk, usually measured just above the nebari. It’s a key indicator of the tree’s maturity and visual strength.
candle pruning
Candle pruning is a specific technique for refining growth in pine bonsai. It involves removing or shortening new shoots to control vigor and encourage back budding.
chokkan
Chokkan is the formal upright bonsai style where the trunk grows straight with symmetrical branch placement. It conveys order, discipline, and classical beauty.
D – deadwood, defoliation, desiccation
deadwood
Deadwood refers to naturally or artificially aged parts of the bonsai that no longer carry sap. Techniques like jin and shari highlight deadwood to express age and struggle.
defoliation
Defoliation is the process of removing leaves to encourage finer branching and smaller foliage. It’s a powerful tool for refinement, especially on deciduous trees.
desiccation
Desiccation occurs when a bonsai loses too much moisture, leading to dry, brittle foliage or branches. Proper watering and humidity control are essential to prevent this.
diatomatious earth
Diatomaceous earth is a soil additive used in bonsai for its excellent drainage and pest-control properties. It’s derived from fossilized algae and helps maintain healthy roots.
F – fukinagashi
fukinagashi
Fukinagashi, or wind-swept style, portrays a tree shaped by strong, continuous winds. The branches and trunk all lean in one direction, telling a story of resilience.
G – girdling, grafting
girdling
Girdling involves removing a ring of bark to disrupt the flow of nutrients, often used to stimulate root growth or create deadwood features. It must be done with care to avoid harming the tree.
grafting
Grafting is a technique where a new branch or root is fused onto a bonsai. It’s useful for improving structure, adding desired characteristics, or repairing damage.
H – han kengai
han kengai
Han-kengai is the semi-cascade style where the trunk curves downward below the pot’s rim but not past its base. It resembles trees clinging to cliffs or growing on slopes.
I – internode, it mean to a tree
internode
An internode is the space between two nodes or leaves on a branch. Shorter internodes are typically preferred in bonsai for tighter, more compact growth.
it mean to a tree
To “bonsai a tree” means to train and shape it artistically while restricting its size. It’s a blend of horticulture and aesthetics that turns a tree into a living sculpture.
J – jin technique
jin technique
The jin technique creates the look of age and weathering by stripping bark from branches to expose bleached wood. It mimics the natural damage from wind or lightning.
K – kabudachi, kokedama, kusamono
kabudachi
Kabudachi is the clump style bonsai where multiple trunks grow from a shared root system. It gives the impression of a small grove or multi-stemmed tree.
kokedama
Kokedama is a Japanese planting style where a tree or plant grows from a moss-covered ball of soil. It offers a minimalist and organic way to display bonsai without a pot.
kusamono
Kusamono are accent plantings, often made of grasses, mosses, or small flowers. They’re displayed alongside bonsai to complement the tree and evoke seasonal themes.
L – literati
literati
The literati style features a thin, often contorted trunk with sparse foliage high up. It reflects elegance, simplicity, and artistic freedom, inspired by Chinese ink paintings.
M – mame, mean, moyogi style
mame
Mame bonsai are miniature trees typically under 10 cm tall. These tiny bonsai require delicate care but are adored for their charm and intricate detail in such a small form.
mean
The word “bonsai” literally means “planted in a container” in Japanese. It refers to the art of growing and shaping small trees that mimic the shape and scale of full-sized trees.
moyogi style
Moyogi is the informal upright style with a trunk that curves naturally while maintaining vertical orientation. It’s one of the most popular and adaptable bonsai styles.
mycorrhiza
Mycorrhiza refers to the beneficial fungi that form symbiotic relationships with bonsai roots. They enhance nutrient absorption, root health, and overall tree vitality.
N – nebari
nebari
Nebari describes the surface root flare at the base of the trunk. A well-developed nebari adds visual strength, balance, and a sense of age to a bonsai tree.
P – pre, pruning
pre
Pre-bonsai are young or untrained trees that haven’t yet been styled into bonsai. They are ideal for hobbyists who want to shape and train their bonsai from the beginning.
pruning
Pruning in bonsai involves trimming branches, shoots, and roots to control growth and refine the shape. It’s a foundational technique used throughout a bonsai’s life.
R – ramification, repotting, root ball
ramification
Ramification is the division of branches into finer, more intricate twigs. Increasing ramification gives the tree a fuller and more mature appearance.
repotting
Repotting is the process of moving a bonsai to a new container and refreshing the soil. It prevents root binding and keeps the tree healthy and vigorous.
root ball
The root ball is the mass of roots and soil at the base of a bonsai tree. It must be carefully managed during repotting to maintain health and stability.
root bound
A bonsai becomes root bound when its roots outgrow the pot, circling tightly around the container. This limits water absorption and can stunt growth if not addressed through repotting.
root flare
Root flare refers to the area where the trunk flares out into the roots at the soil surface. A visible and even root flare adds balance and visual appeal to the tree’s base.
root over rock
Root over rock is a dramatic bonsai style where roots grow over and around a rock before reaching the soil. It symbolizes endurance and adaptation in harsh environments.
root pruning
Root pruning involves trimming the roots during repotting to maintain a compact, healthy root system. It encourages new growth and supports the tree’s overall health and balance.
root rot
Root rot is a fungal condition caused by overwatering or poor drainage. It leads to brown, mushy roots and must be treated quickly to save the tree.
S – sabamiki, sai kei, sashi eda
sabamiki
Sabamiki is a technique that creates hollow or split sections in the trunk to simulate natural damage from lightning or decay. It adds dramatic age and character to a bonsai.
sai kei
Sai Kei combines bonsai with miniature landscaping, creating full scenes with trees, rocks, and figurines. It tells a story beyond a single tree, often representing natural environments.
sashi eda
Sashi-eda is the primary branch of a bonsai, often the first one styled. It helps define the tree’s direction and balance and is key in classical bonsai design.
sashiki
Sashiki is the method of propagating new trees from cuttings. It’s an effective and popular way to start bonsai with characteristics similar to the parent plant.
seed
Growing bonsai from seed offers total control over training from the start. Though slow, it allows for strong roots and personal connection as the tree matures.
shakan style
Shakan is the slanting bonsai style where the trunk grows at an angle, as if shaped by strong wind or reaching for light. It evokes natural movement and dynamic energy.
shari
Shari is a technique where bark is stripped from a section of the trunk to expose deadwood. It simulates natural aging and adds dramatic contrast between life and decay.
sharimiki style
Sharimiki is a bonsai style dominated by exposed deadwood on the trunk, often with just a small strip of living bark. It gives the tree a rugged, ancient appearance.
shohin
Shohin bonsai are small trees typically under 20 cm in height. Despite their size, they require detailed care and are admired for their portability and artistic charm.
sphagnum moss
Sphagnum moss is used in bonsai to retain moisture, aid in air layering, and protect roots during repotting. Its natural antibacterial properties also help prevent rot.
suiban
A suiban is a shallow, flat container often used in display with sand, stones, or suiseki. It provides an elegant base for landscape-style bonsai and artistic arrangements.
sumi
Sumi refers to the visual balance and contrast created through spacing, shape, and negative space. It’s a Japanese aesthetic principle applied in bonsai design.
T – tachiagari, tanuki, technique
tachiagari
Tachiagari is the lower portion of the trunk that rises from the nebari up to the first branch. Its shape and taper are crucial for setting the tone of the entire tree.
tanuki
Tanuki bonsai involves attaching a live tree to a piece of deadwood to create the illusion of age. Though artificial, it offers dramatic styling and is fun for experimentation.
technique
Bonsai techniques include pruning, wiring, grafting, and shaping methods used to train the tree over time. Mastering them is essential for creating a healthy, artistic bonsai.
tokonoma
A tokonoma is a traditional Japanese alcove where bonsai are displayed indoors, often with scrolls and accent pieces. It honors the tree and creates a tranquil viewing experience.
topdressing
Topdressing refers to the layer of material, like moss or decorative stones, placed on the soil surface. It enhances aesthetics and helps retain moisture in the soil.
toriki technique
Toriki is a propagation technique involving air layering to produce new trees from existing branches. It’s ideal for creating strong roots while preserving the original tree.
tosho
Tosho refers to the Japanese needle juniper, a popular bonsai species known for its rugged bark and compact foliage. It’s highly valued for its strength and texture.
training
Training involves shaping and guiding a bonsai over time using techniques like wiring, pruning, and repotting. It’s a long-term process that brings the artist’s vision to life.
tree maintenance
Bonsai tree maintenance includes regular watering, pruning, fertilizing, and checking for pests. Consistent care is essential to keep the tree healthy and beautiful.
tsugiki mean
Tsugiki is the Japanese term for grafting—joining parts of different plants so they grow as one. It’s often used to repair or enhance bonsai with desired traits.
U – underplanting
underplanting
Underplanting refers to adding moss, grass, or small plants around the base of a bonsai. It creates a natural landscape feel and adds depth to the display.
W – wabi sabi, wiring
wabi sabi
Wabi-sabi is the Japanese philosophy of finding beauty in imperfection and transience. In bonsai, it’s reflected in aged trunks, asymmetry, and the passage of time.
wiring
Wiring is the practice of wrapping branches or trunks with wire to guide their shape and direction. It’s a key sculpting tool that allows artists to refine the tree’s form.
Y – yose ue style
yose ue style
Yose-ue is the forest style in bonsai, where multiple trees are planted in a single container to form a natural woodland scene. It emphasizes harmony, spacing, and group dynamics.
Looking to expand your bonsai knowledge even further? Learning how these bonsai terms connect across different styles and care techniques can help you become a more intuitive grower. From wiring to wabi-sabi, each term opens a new door in your practice.
🌿 Final thoughts on using this bonsai glossary and learning key bonsai terms
Bonsai may be a lifelong practice, but understanding the terms doesn’t have to be hard. Whether you’re wiring your first branch or refining your nebari, this glossary is here to guide you every step of the way. Bookmark it, revisit it often, and let it grow with you as your bonsai journey unfolds.
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And if you ever feel lost in a conversation or forum post, returning to this bonsai glossary can bring clarity fast. It’s more than a list—it’s a learning companion that deepens your understanding with each revisit.
