A strange sort of root-over-rock. You might imagine that it started more or less like other root overs, but because the rock is so small, the roots grew under it and pushed it up, while also growing around one side and creating a firm grip on the rock. Though I originally thought the result might simply be an happy accident, upon reflection I think it was the intention of the original artist 40 to 50 years ago.* It's just too perfect the way most of the rock, particularly the bowl is left uncovered and even emphasized. Like so many root-over-rock bonsai, the tree is a Trident maple
Continuing with our Root-over-rock theme from the last two days. The photos and some of the text featured here are from Peter Tea’s blog ( August, 2012). Peter has been featured several times here on Bark.
Peter Tea is a very good story teller and the story that goes with this tree is no exception. We’ll offer a taste here and if you’d like you can read it all and see some more photos on Peter’s blog
Continued below…
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Close up. Such a unique look. The rock is well chosen with it's mini pond (for small birds and other critters to grab a drink?) and the nebari might be best describe as gnarly. Or maybe gnarled? Or both.
Continued from above in Peter’s own words …
“This Trident Maple came to the yard about 3 months ago and is one of the trees I water on a regular basis. It belongs to another professional and is being kept at the nursery for the time being. As I walk by the tree, I always admired the strange stone that the tree is growing around. One day I asked Mr. Tanaka about the stone and if it’s the reason why there is some value in this tree and he quickly pointed out that this was a great tree and that the stone had little to do with it.”
Continued below…
Closer up
Peter continued…
“I was a bit surprised when he said that and it got me to examine the tree more closely. As I sat in the workshop looking at the tree, I started to realize why this tree is quite nice. Mr. Tanaka pointed out a few things and then went on to say, “Only crazy Bonsai people can understand this tree, this tree has Great Taste!” Wow, I really needed to examine what this tree is all about. I went ahead and took some photos of different areas of the tree so you too can see what makes this tree special. We are in for a treat because a tree like this is not easily duplicated or found.”
Continued below…
The back is pretty impressive too and quite similar to the front at a glance. Though looking a little closer, the differences begin to stand out.
Peter continued…
“The main reason why this tree is prized is the age. Looking at the characteristics of the tree roots, trunk and branches tells us that this small tree is actually 40-50 years old! The stone then adds that extra bit of charm that makes this entire tree interesting and desirable. Lets take a closer look at the little things that tell us this tree is old…”
For the rest of the story, visit Peter’s blog
Looking up into the branching. This branching plays into Peter's story about the age and worthiness of this tree
Rock swallowed by roots. Another Trident maple from Peter's post.
*40 to 50 years old according to Mr Tanaka, Peter’s teacher
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