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Bonsai Tree Size Guide

Keshitsubo bonsai tree.

The Keshitsubo size of bonsai trees is the smallest category of miniature trees, measuring less than 3 inches (8 cm) in height. These tiny trees require special care and attention, as they are very delicate and sensitive to environmental changes. The Keshitsubo size of bonsai trees is often used to create intricate landscapes or scenes, such as forests, mountains, or waterfalls. The Keshitsubo size of bonsai trees is considered a challenge and an art form by many bonsai enthusiasts, as it requires skill, patience, and creativity to achieve a realistic and harmonious appearance.

Shito size bonsai tree

The Shito size of bonsai trees is the smallest category, ranging from 2 to 4 inches in height. These miniature trees are also known as "thumb" bonsai, because they can be held in the palm of a hand. Shito bonsai require careful attention and maintenance, as they are more vulnerable to environmental stress and pests. They are often grown in shallow pots or trays, and need frequent watering and pruning. Shito bonsai can be created from various species of trees, such as maples, pines, junipers, and azaleas. They are admired for their delicate beauty and intricate details.
 

Mame sized bonsai tree

The Mame size of bonsai trees is one of the smallest categories, ranging from 2 to 6 inches in height. These miniature trees can be held in one hand and require delicate care and attention. Mame bonsai are often displayed in groups of three or five, creating a harmonious and balanced composition. They can be grown from various species of plants, such as junipers, maples, azaleas, and pines. Mame bonsai are a challenge and a delight for bonsai enthusiasts who appreciate their beauty and elegance.
 

A shohin sized bonsai tree

Shohin bonsai are a type of bonsai that are small enough to be held in one hand. The word "shohin" means "small goods" in Japanese, and these trees are usually no more than 10 inches (25 cm) tall or wide. Shohin bonsai can be made from various species of trees, such as maples, azaleas, junipers, or pines, but they all share the same challenge of maintaining their health and beauty in a small pot with limited soil and water. Shohin bonsai require frequent watering, fertilizing, pruning, and repotting to keep their roots healthy and their shape balanced. Shohin bonsai are admired for their delicate and refined appearance, as well as their ability to depict the essence of nature in miniature form.

Kumono sized bonsai tree

The Kumono "one-hand" size of bonsai trees is a style of miniature bonsai that originated in Japan. The name comes from the fact that these trees can be held in one hand, and are usually less than 15 cm (10 inches) in height. The Kumono style emphasizes the natural beauty and harmony of the tree, and requires careful pruning and wiring to create a balanced and realistic shape. Kumono bonsai are often displayed in small pots or trays, and can be enjoyed as a form of meditation or art.

A katade-mochi sized bnonsai tree

The Katade-mochi "two-hand" size of bonsai trees is one of the most popular and versatile categories of bonsai. It refers to the trees that can be held with two hands, but are still small enough to be displayed on a table or a stand. The Katade-mochi size allows for a variety of styles and shapes, from formal upright to cascade, and from deciduous to evergreen. The Katade-mochi size also offers a balance between the aesthetic appeal and the maintenance requirements of bonsai, as they are easier to care for than smaller trees, but more affordable and transportable than larger ones.

A Chiu sized bonsai tree

The Chiu or Chumono size of bonsai trees is a sub-category of the medium bonsai range, measuring between 41 to 91 centimeters or 16 to 36 inches in height. This size classification is also known as two-handed bonsai, indicating the number of men required to handle one . Chiu or Chumono bonsai trees are popular among bonsai enthusiasts because they can display more character and clout than smaller bonsai, but are still manageable and portable compared to larger bonsai.
 

Dai bonsai

The Dai or Omono size of bonsai trees refers to the large-sized category that can grow up to 30-48 inches (76-122 cm) in height. These trees require four hands to lift and are often displayed outdoors or in large spaces. They are also known as garden bonsai or landscape bonsai, as they can create a miniature representation of a natural scene. Some examples of species that can be grown as Dai or Omono bonsai are pine, maple, juniper, and oak .
 

A Hachi-uye sized bonsai tree

The Hachi-uye size of bonsai trees is one of the largest categories, ranging from 51 to 80 cm in height. These trees are usually displayed on the floor or on low stands, and require "six hands" to move. They are often considered as the most impressive and majestic bonsai specimens, as they can showcase intricate details and realistic proportions. Some of the common species that can be grown in the Hachi-uye size are Japanese maple, pine, juniper, and azalea.
 

An Imperial sized bonsai tree

The Imperial "eight hand" size of bonsai trees is one of the largest and most prestigious categories of the Japanese art of miniature tree cultivation. It refers to trees that are between 152 and 203 centimeters (60 to 80 inches) in height, and that require four people to carry them. These trees are often displayed in formal settings, such as palaces, temples, or museums, and represent the power and dignity of the owner. They are also very rare and expensive, as they require decades of careful pruning, wiring, and shaping to achieve the desired aesthetic effect.

Keishi size bonsai

Keishi is the smallest size classification of bonsai. It literally means “thumb size.” Bonsai of this size are extremely rare and almost impossible to maintain long term.

A Kifu Sho sized bonsai tree.

Kifu Sho is one of the seven size classifications of bonsai, the art of growing miniature trees in containers. Kifu Sho bonsai are medium-sized trees that usually measure between 8 and 16 inches in height. They are slightly bigger than Shohin bonsai, but smaller than Chuhin bonsai. Kifu Sho bonsai are popular among bonsai enthusiasts because they are easy to care for and versatile. They can display a lot of character and beauty in their trunk, branches, leaves, and flowers. Kifu Sho bonsai can be grown in various styles, such as formal upright, informal upright, slanting, cascade, semi-cascade, literati, forest, raft, and root-over-rock.

A Chu sized bonsai tree.

The Chu is a category of bonsai trees that ranges from 16 to 24 inches in height. It is considered a medium large size and can accommodate a variety of styles and shapes. The Chu bonsai requires a pot that is proportional to its trunk and foliage, and that has adequate drainage and aeration. The Chu bonsai should be placed in a location that receives partial sun and shade, and that protects it from extreme temperatures and winds. The Chu bonsai needs regular watering, pruning, wiring, and fertilizing to maintain its health and appearance.