Bay Area Bonsai Associates

BIB Tonight, BABA Last Night

I wonder where this little Japanese black pine came from originally. My guess is that it was imported from Japan. I’ll also guess that, though it looks like a Yamadori (collected from the wild), it was actually grown for bonsai. I could be wrong on both counts, but there’s one count I’m pretty sure of; this is an excellent little tree, with it’s strong base, aged bark, compact twisted shape, small bright needles and complimentary pot. BIB then BABA I should have posted BIB before BABA (see last post). Confused? Okay, here’s how it goes: There are two (at least) … Continue reading BIB Tonight, BABA Last Night

BABA Tonight

One things that has long distinguished Japanese bonsai from bonsai in the West is superior ramification. This noble Trident maple, sans leaves, aptly represents a trend; gradually Western bonsai artists are taking the time and trouble to develop fine branching. I don’t think we’re all the way there yet, but trees like this are a clear sign that we are on our way. A few other things that stand out about this tree are; how well balanced it is, how lush and bright the moss is, and the absolutely wonderful pot. Normally you see deciduous trees in glazed pots. Not … Continue reading BABA Tonight

BABA & Boston Ivy Bonsai

Boston Ivy bonsai at the Bay Area Bonsai Associates 29th annual exhibition. As usual when it comes to BABA, I’m borrowing from The three photos shown here are by Jonas at Bonsai Tonight. Consistent high quality bonsai I’m impressed with what the Bay Area Bonsai Associates has been up to. High quality bonsai just keep coming from that dynamic Northern California group. A big part of their excellence is due to the energy and skill of Boon Manakitivipart, founder and operator of Bonsai Boon and BABA’s prime player. But he’s not alone. (Whoops! Boon is associated with Bay Island Bonsai. … Continue reading BABA & Boston Ivy Bonsai

Accent Plants!

Ajuga, fern, sedum. Artist and potter unknown. Bonsai Tonight and the Bay Area Bonsai Associates’ 28th annual show I found these sweet little accents on Bonsai Tonight. They are from the Bay Area Bonsai Associates’ 28th annual show. Unfortunately, no artist’s or potter’s names are listed. Can anyone out there offer any help? I like this earthy, uniquely shaped hand made pot. Anybody know who made it and who did the planting?