When you want to grow a bonsai tree, you must start by choosing the appropriate style. Choosing a bonsai style is a personal decision based on the gardener’s skill level and creativity. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, there is a bonsai style for you.
Different bonsai styles closely resemble trees found in nature. There are many different tree style variations- from slanting to upright and groupings. The weather, wind, and other elements reflect the shapes of trees in nature. A bonsai gardener aims to recreate that same shape in a shallow pot. There are many different bonsai shapes and forms for a gardener to choose from.
This article provides a bonsai style chart with explanations of each style.
Basic Bonsai Tree Style
When you begin to shape a bonsai tree, you need to choose a style that compliments your tree’s natural design. There are five basic bonsai tree styles based on the tree’s shape and the angle it grows. These styles are best suited for beginners who are learning proper pruning techniques. These basic styles are:
- Formal Upright
- Informal Upright
- Slanting
- Cascade
- Semi-Cascade
Formal Upright | Chokkan
The Chokkan, or formal upright style, is one of the most common bonsai shapes. This style gives a bonsai tree a conical shape, sometimes rounded. You’ll find many trees in nature with a similar style because it does not cause a lot of stress to the plant. Formal upright bonsai trees are known for their straight, upright trunk and thick, long branches.
Formal Upright Style Characteristics
There are a few distinct features of a bonsai tree with a formal upright style.
Trunk
The formal upright style has a perfectly straight trunk line. Another defining characteristic of a formal upright style tree is the tapered trunk. A tapered trunk is wider on the bottom and gradually gets thinner with height. It takes years to achieve the perfect tapered trunk.
Branches
A formal upright style bonsai tree will have branches at about one-fourth of the way up the trunk. The lowest two branches are usually trained to extend to the front side while the third branch extends toward the back to create depth. The lower branches are pruned and trained until they achieve a “Christmas tree” look. The branches are thick and long on the bottom of the tree and get shorter with height.
Tree Top
The top of a formal upright style bonsai tree should be formed with one branch. The very top of the tree will be a branch, not the trunk.
Roots
A formal upright bonsai tree may have visible roots above the soil.
Why Choose The Formal Upright Bonsai Style
The formal upright style is one of the most basic styles for bonsai trees. It’s also the easiest style for beginners.
The features of the Formal Upright Bonsai Style include:
- Easy Shape
- No Advanced Pruning Techniques Necessary
- Quick To Shape
Best For: Beginners
Best Tree Types For The Formal Upright Style
Coniferous trees are the best trees for this style because of their natural tapered shape. Some suitable tree types for the formal upright style are:
- Juniper
- Pine
- Spruce
- Maple
Informal Upright | Moyogi
The Moyogi, or informal upright style, is the most popular style for bonsai trees. This style mimics the shape of a tree in nature that has grown in rough conditions. Unlike the formal upright style, the informal upright style does not have a straight trunk line. Instead, an informal upright style bonsai tree will have a “S” shaped trunk to show contortion. In nature, this shape is created due to the constant breaking of the tree trunk by weather or animals.
Informal Upright Style Characteristics
There are a few distinct features of a bonsai tree with an informal upright style.
Trunk
The informal upright style has a tapered, single trunk in which the base of the trunk is thicker than the portion above it. The trunk grows outward, creating an “S” shape rather than growing straight up. The trunk should have some curves and angles. The trunk bends slightly forward which can be achieved by using wires. Another way to create this slant is to repot the tree and tilt it before covering the bottom portion with soil.
Branches
An informal upright style bonsai tree will have branches starting at about one-fourth of the way up the trunk. The branches should only be growing outward and away from the trunk.
Tree Top
The top of the bonsai should be bent toward the front. This bend is what gives this style a sense of informality and gives the bonsai tree the appearance of being in motion.
Roots
An informal upright bonsai tree may have visible roots above the soil.
Why Choose The Informal Upright Bonsai Style
The informal upright style is the most popular bonsai tree style. It works well for different kinds of trees and gives the illusion of being in motion in nature.
The features of the Informal Upright Bonsai Style include:
- Easy Shape
- Stunning Look Even When Trees Lose Their Leaves
- Good Style For Trees That Already Show Stresses
Best For: Beginners
Best Tree Types For The Informal Upright Style
Most species are suitable for this bonsai style including any coniferous tree. Some suitable species for the informal upright style are:
- Japanese Maple
- White Pine
- Crab Apple
- Trident Maple
- Juniper
- Beech
- Pomegranate
Slanting | Shakan
The Shakan, or slanting style, mimics a tree that has been exposed to a strong wind blowing in one direction. With this style, the tree trunk slants dramatically in one direction. In nature, this style can also be achieved when a tree is grown in a shady area and it begins to bend toward the sunlight.
Slanting Style Characteristics
There are a few distinct features of a bonsai tree with a slanting style.
Trunk
The slanting style has a tapered, single trunk in which the base of the trunk is thicker than the portion above it. The trunk grows at an angle of about 60 to 80 degrees relative to the ground. For a slanting style, the trunk can be either straight or slightly bent. The slant can be difficult to achieve because there needs to be a balance between the trunk and the branches.
Branches
A slanting style bonsai tree will have its first branch growing in the opposite direction of the slant of the tree. The lower branches are arranged in groups of three and start about one-third up the trunk. It’s important to arrange the branches in a way so they don’t cause the tree to appear lopsided. Any large limbs should be grown on the opposite side of the tree’s slant to maintain visual balance.
Tree Top
The top of a slanting bonsai tree is slightly bent toward the front.
Roots
On the side in which the tree is leaning, the roots of a slanting bonsai are not well developed. Because of this, the other side of the tree trunk will have a well-developed, overly strong root system to counter the weight of the tree’s slant.
Why Choose The Slanting Bonsai Style
The slanting style is a symbol of longevity and power.
The features of the slanting style include:
- Popular Shape for Coniferous Trees
- Trunk Can Be Straight Or Slightly Bent
- Number of Branches and Their Placements Aren’t As Significant Compared To Other Bonsai Styles
Best For: Beginners
Best Tree Types For The Slanting Style
Many tree species work well with the slanting style, particularly coniferous trees. Some suitable tree types for the slanting style are:
- Juniper
- Japanese White Pine
- Japanese Cedar
- Crab Apple
- Beech
- Trident Maple
- Any Coniferous Tree
Cascade | Kengai
The Kengai, or cascade style, mimics a tree in nature that lives on a steep cliff and is bent downward. With this style, the trunk grows upward slightly and then abruptly goes down to a point where the treetop reaches the bottom of the plant’s container. If you choose a cascade style bonsai tree, you will need to keep the plant on the edge of a table or in a tall pot. Most of its foliage will be below the soil surface.
Cascade Style Characteristics
There are a few distinct features of a bonsai tree with a cascade style.
Trunk
A cascade style bonsai tree will have a trunk that grows upright briefly and then abruptly bends downward. The trunk will form a “S” shape on the way down.
Branches
A cascade style bonsai tree will have alternating branches on the outermost curves of the trunk. The branches grow horizontally to maintain visual balance.
Tree Top
The top of a cascade style tree will be hanging over the pot and will be below the soil surface.
Roots
On the side in which the tree is leaning, the roots of a cascade bonsai are not well developed. Because of this, the other side of the tree trunk will have a well-developed, overly strong root system to counter the weight of the tree’s abrupt drop to one side. Particular pots allow for roots to grow deeper to ensure that the tree won’t tip over.
Why Choose The Cascade Bonsai Style
The shape of a cascade bonsai tree represents perseverance during a difficult time.
The features of the cascade style include:
- Longer training time compared to other basic styles
- Requires more advanced wire training and pruning techniques to achieve the look
Best For: Intermediates
Best Tree Types For The Cascade Style
Low growing species work best for a cascade style because the gardener does not have to force the tree to bend unnaturally. Although, almost any species can be suitable for a cascade style.
Some suitable tree types for the cascade style are:
- Chinese Juniper
- Japanese White Pine
- Mountain Pine
- Scotch Pine
- Any Ficus Tree
- Any Coniferous Tree
Semi-Cascade | Han-Kengai
The Han-Kengai, or semi-cascade style, is similar to the cascade style because it mimics a tree in nature that lives on a steep cliff and is bent downward. With this style, the trunk grows upward for a small distance and the bends slightly downwards, almost sideways. Unlike the cascade style, the trunk will not grow below the bottom of its container and the top of the tree is around the rim of the container.
Semi-Cascade Style Characteristics
There are a few distinct features of a bonsai tree with a semi-cascade style.
Trunk
A semi-cascade style bonsai tree will have a trunk that grows upright briefly and then bend slightly downward or to the side. The trunk is curved but does not reach the bottom of the pot.
Branches
A semi-cascade style bonsai tree will have alternating branches between the front and the back to create an illusion of depth. The branches and foliage of a semi-cascade style bonsai tree will never touch the bottom of the container, but it will be under the soil surface level.
Tree Top
The top of a semi-cascade style tree will be hanging over the pot, but will not reach the bottom of the plant’s container.
Roots
The root system on the semi-cascade style tree is similar to that of a cascade style. On the side in which the tree is leaning, the roots are not well developed. Because of this, the other side of the tree trunk will have a well-developed root system to counter the weight of the tree’s abrupt drop to one side.
Why Choose The Semi-Cascade Bonsai Style
Although the semi-cascade style is very similar to the cascade style, it is still defined as its own distinct form.
The features of the semi-cascade style include:
- Longer training time compared to other basic bonsai styles
- Requires advanced wire training and pruning techniques to achieve the look
Best For: Intermediates
Best Tree Types For The Semi-Cascade Style
Tree types that are suitable for the cascade style are also suitable for the semi-cascade style. Flowering trees work particularly well for this style.
Some suitable tree types for the semi-cascade style are:
- Chinese Juniper
- Japanese White Pine
- Mountain Pine
- Scotch Pine
- Willows
- Chrysanthemums
- Wisteria
- Star Jasmine
- Any Ficus Tree
- Any Coniferous Tree
Advanced Bonsai Tree Styles
Advanced bonsai styles are:
- Literati
- Windswept
- Broom
- Double Trunk
- Multi-Trunk
- Forest
- Raft
Literati | Bunjingi
The Bunjingi, or literati style, depicts trees that are grown in overcrowded areas and are competing with other trees for resources. This style features a thin trunk and minimum branches. Although this tree can look quirky to many, this design is thought to be one of the more difficult styles to achieve. It takes many years of bonsai experience and tree knowledge to successfully create a literati bonsai tree.
Literati Style Characteristics
There are a few distinct features of a bonsai tree with a literati style.
Trunk
The literati style bonsai tree has a crooked trunk that moves upward. The style also calls for one side of the trunk to be free of bark. The trunk does not grow straight up, instead the trunk grows slightly slanting to represent growing toward sunlight.
Branches
The literati style involves a small number of branches located only at the top of the tree. There are no branches on the lower level of the trunk. This style creates balance at the treetop. Because the foliage is on the top of the tree and the trunk is very thin, a literati style bonsai tree looks intentionally unstable.
Tree Top
All the branches and foliage are located at the very top of the tree.
Roots
The surface roots are not important to the literati bonsai style.
Why Choose The Literati Bonsai Style
The literati style represents a tree that is struggling to survive.
The features of the Literati Style include:
- Quirky, Non-traditional Style
- Little Tapering Required
- Difficult to Prune and Train
Best For: Experts
Best Tree Types For The Literati Style
Some suitable tree types for the literati style are:
- Red Pine
- White Pine
- Japanese Plum Tree
Windswept | Fukinagashi
The Fukinagashi, or windswept style, is another representation of a tree that must struggle to survive. Although it is similar to some basic bonsai styles, the windswept is considered a non-traditional bonsai style. This style features a slanted trunk and branches to replicate the look of a tree being exposed to strong wind. Trees with this style are naturally found on the coastline and in the mountains.
Windswept Style Characteristics
There are a few distinct features of a bonsai tree with a windswept style.
Trunk
The windswept style bonsai tree has a slanted trunk with branches growing in the same direction.
Branches
The windswept style has branches growing toward one side as if the wind is constantly blowing from one direction. The branches do not grow upwards. The branches require a lot of wiring work so that they bend properly. Some branches will need to be bent at a 180-degree curve to achieve a natural look.
Tree Top
The top of the tree is also bent in the direction of the trunk and other branches.
Roots
Like other slanting trees, on the side where the tree is leaning, the roots are not well developed. Because of this, the other side of the tree will have a well-developed, overly strong root system to keep the tree stable.
Why Choose The Windswept Bonsai Style
The windswept style represents a tree that is struggling to survive.
The features of the Windswept Style include:
- Non-Traditional Style
- Requires A Lot of Wiring for Proper Branch Bending
Best For: Intermediates, Experts
Best Tree Types For The Windswept Style
Some suitable tree types for the windswept style are:
- Chinese Juniper
- Japanese White Pine
- Mountain Pine
- Scotch Pine
- Red Pine
- Japanese Plum Tree
Broom | Hokidachi
The Hokidachi, or broom style, mimics the decorative trees that are found in orchards. This style features branches that are pruned into a round crown at the top of the tree. Broom trees can be formal or informal, like the upright style. The broom style is a unique form that appeals even to people who aren’t bonsai enthusiasts. This style is very difficult to create and maintain so many are in awe when they see one.
Broom Style Characteristics
There are a few distinct features of a bonsai tree with a broom style.
Trunk
The broom style has a straight and upright trunk, although it is possible to use a tree with curves and slight bends. The trunk does not continue to the top of the tree. As with other styles, the trunk should be tapered.
Branches
The broom style has branches that grow in all directions starting about one-third of the way up. The branches and leaves are pruned to form a round shape on the top of the tree. The branch arrangement is so stunning that the tree even looks amazing during the colder months after its leaves fall off.
Tree Top
The top of the tree is pruned to a round shape to create a crown.
Roots
The broom style has a wide root system growing in all directions.
Why Choose The Broom Bonsai Style
The broom style represents a beautiful, decorative tree.
The features of the Broom Style include:
- Rare, Non-Traditional Style
- Difficult to Create and Maintain
- Time-Consuming Pruning Techniques
Best For: Experts
Best Tree Types For The Broom Style
Deciduous trees are best suited for the broom style because of their fine branches. Some suitable tree types for the broom style are:
- Chinese Elm
- Japanese Maple
- Japanese Zelkova
- Brush Cherry
- Pomegranate
- Siberian Elm
- English Elm
- Crab Apple
- Beech Olive
Double Trunk | Sokan
The Sokan, or double trunk, is a common style found in nature. Trees in nature are forced into many different shapes under the pressure of the weather and wind. The double trunk style features two tree trunks growing from one root system. The point where the two trunks meet must be a sharp “V” shape and not a “U” shape. The space between the trunks should be wider, the higher up the tree it goes.
Double Trunk Style Characteristics
There are a few distinct features of a bonsai tree with a double trunk style.
Trunk
The double trunk style features two trunks grown from one root system. Sometimes, a smaller trunk will grow out of a larger trunk above the ground. The two trunks are typically not identical. They can be different heights and vary in thickness. Usually, the larger trunk is thicker and upright and the smaller trunk is thinner and slanted. The trunks must not cross each other and should not slant to the front.
Branches
The double trunk style has branches that blend at the top of the tree. No branches should grow in between the trunks.
Tree Top
The two trunks have blended foliage to create a single crown of leaves at the top of the tree.
Roots
The double trunk style has a wide root system growing in all directions to support two trunks.
Why Choose The Double Trunk Bonsai Style
The double trunk style represents trees that need to manipulate their shapes to survive.
The features of the Double Trunk Style include:
- Non-Traditional Style
- Difficult to Create and Maintain
- Advanced Training to Create The Distinct “V” Shape Between Trunks
Best For: Experts
Best Tree Types For The Double Trunk Style
Some suitable tree types for the double trunk style are:
- Japanese Beech
- Japanese Maple
Multi-Trunk | Kabudachi
The Kabudachi, or multi-trunk style, is very similar to the double trunk, but it has more than 3 trunks. Trees in nature are forced into many different shapes under the pressure of the weather and wind. All of the trunks grow out of one root system and give the illusion of multiple trees growing in one pot. The multi-trunk bonsai tree is still considered one tree.
Multi-Trunk Style Characteristics
There are a few distinct features of a bonsai tree with a multi-trunk style.
Trunk
The multi-trunk style features three or more trunks being grown from one root system. Sometimes, a smaller trunk will grow out of a larger trunk above the ground. The tree trunks are typically not identical. They can be different heights and vary in thickness. Usually, the larger trunk is thicker and upright and the smaller trunks are thinner and slanted. The trunks must not cross each other and should not slant to the front.
Branches
The multi-trunk style has branches that blend at the top of the tree. No branches should grow in between the trunks.
Tree Top
The most developed trunk will form the top. The trunks have blended foliage to create a single crown of leaves at the top of the tree.
Roots
The multi-trunk style has a wide root system growing in all directions to support multiple trunks.
Why Choose The Multi-Trunk Bonsai Style
The multi-trunk style represents trees that need to manipulate their shapes to survive.
The features of the Multi-Trunk Style include:
- Non-Traditional Style
- Difficult to Create and Maintain
Best For: Experts
Best Tree Types For The Multi-Tree Style
Some suitable species for the multi-trunk style are:
- Japanese Beech
- Japanese Maple
Forest | Yose-ue
The Yose-ue, or forest style, is very similar to the multi-trunk style. The difference between the two styles is that the forest style is made of multiple trees while the multi-trunk style is only one tree with many branches. The style is intended to replicate a natural forest so the trees are planted in a staggered pattern. All the trees vary in thickness and height. The trees are planted at different distances for a more natural look.
Forest Style Characteristics
There are a few distinct features of a bonsai tree with a forest style.
Trunk
The forest style has multiple trees. The trees with thicker, more developed trunks are planted in the middle of a large, shallow pot. The smaller trees are planted on the sides to create one, single crown. Although three trees are the minimum for the forest style, it looks more realistic with at least five trees.
Branches
The forest style has branches that blend at the top of the tree. No branches should grow in between the trunks.
Tree Top
The most developed tree will form the top. The trees have blended foliage to create a single crown of leaves at the top of the tree.
Roots
The forest style has trees with wide root systems growing in all directions to support them.
Why Choose The Forest Bonsai Style
The forest style represents trees that grow together and complement one another.
The features of the Forest Style include:
- Non-Traditional Style
- Utilizes Multiple Trees
Best For: Experts
Best Tree Types For The Forest Style
Most forest styles are formed by trees of one species.
Some suitable tree types for the forest style are:
- Japanese Beech
- Japanese Maple
Raft | Ikadabuki
The Ikadabuki, or raft style, is a uniquely beautiful bonsai form in which branches grow from a cracked tree. The raft style mimics a tree in nature that has been damaged by a storm or wind. Eventually, new roots develop from the fallen trunk and the branches begin to grow vertically. Over time, a new tree is grown and remains connected to the fallen trunk.
Raft Style Characteristics
There are a few distinct features of a bonsai tree with a raft style.
Trunk
The raft style begins with a tree trunk that is wired and laid horizontally, slightly under the soil in a shallow container. Over time, a new trunk is formed with the new root system.
Branches
The raft style has branches from the unharmed side of the fallen tree trunk that grows vertically.
Tree Top
The trees have blended foliage to create a single crown of leaves at the top of the tree.
Roots
The old root system of a raft style bonsai tree can provide enough nutrients to keep the tree alive. New roots will grow and will encourage branch growth.
Why Choose The Raft Bonsai Style
The raft style represents trees that have been damaged by the elements.
The features of the Raft Style include:
- Rare, Non-Traditional Style
- Extensive Wiring Required
Best For: Experts
Best Tree Types For The Raft Style
Some suitable tree types for the raft style are:
- Japanese White Pine
Learn More About Bonsai
Growing a bonsai requires horticultural skill, artistic skill, patience, and dedication. Bonsai trees are fragile pieces of art that need constant and proper care.
As a bonsai artist, you will need to have an extensive understanding on topics including:
* How to get started
* Bonsai History
* Major Bonsai Styles
* Bonsai tree species
* Bonsai specialty tools
* Healthy, Aged appearance
* Trunk line & Branching Patterns
* Potting your Bonsai
*Wiring and Shaping
* Pruning
* Watering & Fertilizing
* Repotting & Seasonal Care
* Displaying your bonsai
If you want to learn these topics quickly and ensure that your bonsai trees thrive, check out this easy-to-follow guide on How To Grow and Care for a Bonsai Tree.
