VOLUME 44, NO. 1 THE MAGAZINE OF GOLDEN STATE BONSAI FEDERATION - Golden Statements Cover Tree Winter 2021 Water, Water Everywhere Wetting Agent ...
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
THE MAGAZINE OF GOLDEN STATE BONSAI FEDERATION VOLUME 44, NO. 1
®
Golden Statements Cover Tree Winter 2021
Water, Water Everywhere
Wetting Agent
Wetting Agents - Are They Something New?
FREE Winter 20211
Volume 44, No.1
Visit us on the web at: www.joshuaroth.com Toll Free: 1-800-624-4635 Phone: 1-541-791-5312 Fax: 1-541-791-5337 E-mail: bonsai@joshuaroth.com
GOLDEN STATEMENTS
Table of Contents
Operations
2 Golden Statements Policy 42 Surviving the Pandemic - A Year in the
2 Advertising Rates Life of a Bonsai Collection
Bob Hilvers
Communications 46 Cork Bark Oak, A Brief History
3 GSBF President’s Message George Haas
J Mario Rendina 51 The Nebari-Net - Bonsai in the Age of
4 Editor's Notes the Internet - New Exploration of Designer
George Haas Pots
Jerry Carpenter
Articles 58 Calendar of Events
5 Season's Changes - Winter 2021
Chris Ross
7 Golden Statements Cover Tree
Winter 2021
George Haas
10 Water, Water Everywhere
Cover Tree
Tom Colby
12 Wetting Agent
George Haas
13 Wetting Agents - Are They Something
New?
Don Markiewcz and Jan Harris
14 Welcome to My Blog!
Peter Tea
16 A Complement to Jim Trumbly's
Chronological List of Satsuki Articles in The
Azalean
Ajit K. Thakur, Ph.D.
24 Lifelines/Timelines
The Huntington Gardens Bonsai
Species: California Juniper
Collection (Juniperus californica)
29 Bonsai Garden at Lake Merritt Owner: George Haas
George Haas Shown: 2013 Redwood Empire Bonsai
34 Bonsai Workshop Project Society (REBS) Annual Show
Photo by: Don Van Dyke
Marsha Mekisich
Volume 44, No.1 1
GOLDEN STATEMENTS STAFF GOLDEN STATEMENTS
Editor George Haas gwhaas@comcast.net Winter 2021 Vol. 44 No. 1
Treasurer Rich Guillen richguillen@att.net
Advertising George Haas gwhaas@comcast.net © GOLDEN STATE BONSAI FEDERATION,
Calendar of Events George Haas gwhaas@comcast.net founded in 1978, is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit,
Proof Reader Keith Carter kcarter315@att.net educational organization dedicated to historical,
Columnist Jerry Carpenter jcsf1090@comcast.net scientific features and appreciation of the art of
Columnist Chris Ross cmrbonsai@yahoo.com bonsai. Visit our website at: www.gsbfbonsai.org.
Past Editor Jason Chan jmc1106@gmail.com
“Golden State Bonsai Federation,” “GSBF,” and
its logo are trademarks of Golden State Bonsai
Federation. © 2021 GSBF All Rights Reserved. No
part of this publication may be reprinted, copied, or
otherwise reproduced without written permission
from the Editor. Contributed articles express the
opinion of the author and do not necessarily reflect
the views of the GSBF Executive Board or the
Editor.
All trademarks and registered trademarks are the
property of their respective owners.
GOLDEN STATEMENTS is published
online four times a year by GSBF.
Issue price FREE.
All Mail Inquiries To:
Golden State Bonsai Federation,
PO Box 159, Georgetown, CA 95634
New Golden Statements Magazine deadlines for ads, events,
articles and photo submissions:
Winter issue - December 1 Summer issue - June 1
Spring issue - March 1 Fall issue - September 1
ONLINE ADVERTISING QUARTERLY/ANNUAL RATES:
Send ad ready copy to Editor by above posted deadlines.
Size Issue Year
1/8 page 3.65 x 2.35 inches $ 22.50 $ 90.00
1/4 page 3.65 x 4.90 inches $ 45.00 $ 180.00
1/2 page Horiz. 7.50 x 4.90 inches $ 67.50 $ 270.00
1/2 page Vert. 3.65 x 10.0 inches $ 67.50 $ 270.00
Full page 7.50 x 10.0 inches $120.00 $ 480.00
Back Inside Cover 7.50 x 10.0 inches $145.00 $ 580.00
Front Inside Cover 7.50 x 10.0 inches $160.00 $ 640.00
Back Inside Cover 1/2 page Horiz. 7.50 x 4.90 inches $ 77.50 $ 310.00
Front Inside Cover 1/2 page Horiz. 7.50 x 4.90 inches $ 85.00 $ 340.00
Back Outside Cover 6.85 x 5.85 inches $107.50 $ 430.00
Contact Editor George Haas at gwhaas@comcast.net for details on advertising rates.
2 Winter 2021
President's Message
J Mario Rendina
However, the GSBF board is planning on a one-
day or two-day event for sometime in October
2021. Details will be announced in the spring and
posted on the GSBF website.
Please take care, be safe, and be well.
With December and January comes the Holiday
Season and closing of the books on 2020. It is
supposed to be a merry and cheerful time of the
year. It can be if we focus on the positive things
that surround us.
I hope everyone is healthy and safe from the
coronavirus pandemic of 2020. Hope is on my
mind for 2021 and for the lifting of the pandemic
restrictions that plagued us throughout the past
year.
Golden State Bonsai Federation has posted to
their website the renewal of membership and
insurance instructions. This year these actions
can be accomplished online.
I am impressed by the creativity of many clubs
to stay connected with bonsai activities. Whether
in smaller groups or by virtual meetings and
presentations, you have kept club memberships
active.
GSBF has appointed Rich Guillen as interim
treasurer. All mail inquiries to GSBF should
now be addressed to 'Golden State Bonsai
Federation, PO Box 159, Georgetown, CA
95634'.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the GSBF 2021
"MISSION: Bonsai" Convention will not be held.
Volume 44, No.1 3
to all the contributors who submitted articles and
images making the magazine what bonsai is in
Editor's Notes the western United States.
A special thanks to all the advertisers. Funds
received from advertisements pay for operational
George Haas costs and will help keep Golden Statements
Magazine online free.
The digital magazine is made possible
through Joomag, a digital publishing company
representing 500,000+ clients.
Golden Statements Magazine is free online
Dear Golden Statements with new and easy access through the GSBF
Magazine readers, website. Subscribership is growing at a fast pace.
A new goal is to have 800 active subscribers
This is my last issue to the online magazine by the end of 2021.
as editor of the Golden This can be achieved by viewers spreading the
Statements Magazine. A word. Golden Statements Magazine is a digital
new editor must be found to magazine, published quarterly. If you don't
continue the magazine now in its want to miss a single publication, subscribe
44th year of publication. It has been a pleasure at www.gsbfbonsai.org/Articles.asp?ID=291.
and honor to serve the Golden State Bonsai For more information, please contact me at
Federation as the magazine editor. I served gwhaas@comcast.net.
from 2011 to 2013 and from 2018 to 2020.
I saw it go from black and white to full color
and from print to digital. The free digital online
publication is viewed in more than 30 countries.
Active subscribers to the digital magazine have
surpassed the 400 previous print subscribers
and now stands at 539. Active subscribers are
expected to grow with the spreading of word
by bonsai professionals and hobbyists. In
2020, each quarterly issue was viewed online
an average of 746 times. This attracts bonsai
vendors and businesses to advertise in the
magazine.
A special thanks to the Golden Statements
Magazine staff - Janice Hale, Keith Carter, Jerry
Carpenter, Chris Ross. They were indispensable
to the publication of the quarterly magazine. And,
ARTICLES, announcements and photographs intended for publication in Golden Statements must reach the Editor by deadlines shown on page 2.
Golden Statements reserves the right to edit any material submitted for publication. It is assumed that all submissions made to Golden Statements
may be published both in print and online at www.gsbfbonsai.org/.
TITLES such as Dr. are not used in by-lines. FOREIGN WORDS are used without diacritic marks or macrons for Japanese. UNSIGNED ARTICLES
are by the Editor.
4 Winter 2021
edge of the repotting table.
Season's Changes Use a chopstick or small short-tooth rake to gently
scratch at the surface of the soil, from the trunk
outward toward the edge where the pot was, so
Chris Ross you can expose the surface roots that will become
the primary means of expanding the nebari, that
handsome flare at the base of the tree. This
important step, which takes patience and a gentle
Winter-into-spring for bonsai artists in the hand, is often rushed and bungled, and then
Mediterranean-type microclimates that exist takes two or three years or more to correct. Once
in so much of Californnia is a very busy time. the surface roots are exposed, it should be more
Repotting as the buds begin to open is prime apparent how much of the bottom of the root
time for all the deciduous trees. After the buds mass can be removed. Tip the tree on its side
open, it’s too late. People who really know what and use the stick, the rake, or a small root hook to
they’re doing can get away with a bit more on strip and comb across the bottom of the root ball
trees that they’re familiar with, but the best in one direction only, over and over until enough
advice is to get it all done before the buds open. roots are freed from the soil to allow you to scissor
Young trees should be repotted every one or across the entire bottom of the root ball to create
two years, certainly no more than three years, a nice flat surface. The edges of the root ball can
so that the roots can be directed and refined, then be trimmed to a convenient length, and the
and the trees will be rejuvenated so that weaker whole process repeated until a fairly thin, very flat
branches are less likely to die back or dwindle. pad of roots is created to tie into the new pot.
Any recently acquired tree should be repotted
so that you know what the roots are like and Add a thin base of larger-grain drainage material
that it’s all properly done, healthy, and secure. to the bottom of the pot, and add some bonsai
Repot anything that didn’t thrive, anything that soil in a heaping pile in the middle. Place your flat
may have been a little slow to grow or slow to little root ball on the pile, set the tree slightly off-
drain, anything that deserves a better pot, a center in the pot, settle it by rotating it right and
better position or angle, an escape from nursery left a quarter-turn a couple of times, and wire it
containers and buckets, or just a second chance. in. There are several methods of tying the wire
You should even repot the trees you’ve decided and snugging it down that will work. If you don’t
to get rid of, so they’ll look better and be worth know how it’s done, it’s hard to fake it, so get
more. Some people keep a few very cheap some advice or use diagrams or get someone to
bonsai pots around, easily found at sales and help you. Once it’s all secure, run lots of water
auctions, for just this purpose. through the pot to rinse out the dust, which would
otherwise migrate toward the bottom and slow
First clean, screen, and wire an appropriate new down the drainage from the very start.
pot. Cut deeply all around inside the edges of
the old pot, ideally with a small curved root saw. It turns out that there are some things at almost
Other tools may do, but most will be difficult and every phase of bonsai that are very hard to
may cause some root damage. Then turn the describe verbally, sometimes difficult even
pot up on edge and gently tip the pot and tree in with pictures or diagrams, so that the outcome
opposite directions. Recut the inside edges if this is unpredictable. This is one reason why the
doesn’t happen easily, don’t use a lot of force or clubs are so important. There is sometimes
you could tear some roots that you may need. just no substitute for hands-on instruction and
Remove the pot and place the root ball at the personal assistance when it comes to details, and
successfully accomplishing the details sometimes
Volume 44, No.1 5
takes several repetitions to begin to master. And sooner or later the success of each bonsai creation always comes down to the details. When the deciduous trees are repotted, move on to the evergreen broadleaves, then the junipers, conifers, and other evergreens. A few tree types, like most tropicals for instance, should be repotted at an entirely different time of year. Put all repotted trees out in full sun, and remember that new, unsettled soil may dry out much faster than the soil you’re used to so be careful about the watering. Green moss can be removed from trunks and exposed roots by gently brushing with a soft brush, but frequently the bark beneath it will be wet and tender and easily injured and it takes years to grow it back. Kill the moss first with alcohol in a spray bottle set for misting, then brush it off when it’s dry with a denture brush or a tiny whisk broom. Freezes may still suddenly descend on the garden, and potted plants freeze more quickly and more thoroughly than those in cans or in the ground, so keep the soil moist not wet and when you suspect trouble put the pots under the benches, under the eaves, under taller shrubbery, or in the garage for a couple of days. There’s plenty to do. By the end of February, you can feel and practically even hear spring approaching. It’s a heart-moving and lovely time of year full of promise and pleasant expectation. Try to make sure that the same can be said for your garden, and your everyday life, and your close relationships. Life is beautiful. CR 6 Winter 2021
Golden Statements Cover Tree
Winter 2021
By George Haas
I got interested in bonsai about 17 years ago by a dear friend, Earl Minagawa of San Rafael,
California. Earl introduced me to the Marin Bonsai Club, which my wife and I visited a couple of
times to get acquainted with club activities. He also introduced us to the Redwood Empire Bonsai
Society (REBS). Earl said check out the REBS' monthly meeting and demonstration. We attended a
September meeting and demonstration hosted by REBS featuring club sensei Kathy Shaner as the
guest demonstrator. That occasion caused us to join REBS.
Here is a story that many can relate to. I was new to REBS and a beginner at bonsai. I signed up
for a beginners' workshop and learned how to create a bonsai with a common juniper (Juniperus
procumbens nana), which I still own in my collection of bonsai. Shortly afterwards, I took on the
role as the club newsletter editor. My bonsai collection steadily grew from REBS members gifting
their trees to me. And, I won a wild number of raffle trees by attending the monthly meetings and
demonstrations.
On August 30, 2009, I won the demonstration tree by purchasing $40 worth of raffle tickets at
the annual REBS show. Kathy performed the demonstration on a California juniper (Juniperus
californica). Suddenly, my bonsai collection became serious. The California juniper was estimated
to be 250 years old. I made an effort to determine the history of the demonstration tree. Who
previously owned the tree? When was it collected (Mojave Desert in southern California)? I learned
over time that REBS member Bob Shimon purchased the demonstration bonsai from Dr. Robert K.
Washino, Ph.D., a retired UC Davis professor residing in Davis, California. I approached Robert, as
Volume 44, No.1 7
the previous owner of the California juniper. He recalled the California juniper and its blue glazed Japanese pot, but could not offer any information as to where and how he acquired it. I thought the history of the tree was then lost for sure. I informed Bob about my efforts to learn more about the bonsai. Bob said he knew where the bonsai came from and informed me that Robert had purchased the California juniper from a past REBS show member sales. There is no identity of the REBS member who sold the tree, and so, the real history is unknown. Over the years, I attended advanced workshops with Kathy, who provided care and styling instructions for the California juniper. On August 24, 2013, the California juniper was shown at the annual REBS show. The tree remains in my bonsai collection. I wonder if someone else has a story simillar to the one above and is willing to share it with Golden Statements Magazine. If so, submit your write up and images to the editor at gwhaas@comcast.net. 8 Winter 2021
BAIKOEN BONSAI KENKYU KAI
Virtual 57th Winter Silhouettes Show and Auction
February 6, 2021
The 57th Winter Silhouettes Show will feature deciduous trees in all their leafless glory. In lieu
of an actual show, there will be a virtual YouTube video, premiering on February 6, 2021 at 12
noon. Trees from club members and invited Guest Exhibitors will be on display. A short
commentary of the trees, interesting facts and its owner will be presented by Tom Lau and Joe
Galgoul. The Nagata-Komai award for excellence of instruction and encouragement in the art
of Bonsai will be announced. In addition, an on-line Auction of Bonsai plants and related items
will be held between February 1-6, 2021. For more information please see
https://www.YouTube.com/c/BaikoenBonsaiClub. Or visit our web site at
https://www.baikoenbonsai.com/ or contact Joe Galgoul at joegalgoul@yahoo.com.
A Ficus tree initially designed by John Naka
growing in a pot made by Jim Barrett, 26”Hx30”W, available at the Auction..
Volume 44, No.1 9Water, Water Everywhere for a week, the dog will be pretty mad at you and
if you skip feeding him for a couple of weeks you
By Tom Colby will find that the dog has packed up and left. It is
the same way with bonsai. Skipping water for a
You have been engaged in the wide world of week will make your tree look pretty sick and if
bonsai for a while and you want to upgrade your the drought extended to a couple of weeks your
collection with a really nice tree. You spot a tree tree will be in need of a decent burial because
for sale at a show which makes your dreams it will no longer be in the land of the living.
come true. Talking with the owner of the tree you You might ask why all the fuss about constant
find that the tree was originally purchased from watering? After all, trees in nature are not
a nursery in a gallon can twenty years ago. The watered every day. The answer to this question is
price for the tree will probably be in the range of lies in how roots function.
a few hundred to a few thousand dollars. So why
is the tree so expensive? There are at least three When the roots become completely dry, they
reasons which figure in pricing a tree. die. If the soil that the tree is planted in does
not drain well, the roots can rot. To prevent this
The most obvious reason is the appearance of from happening, soils can be chosen for our
the tree which is what attracted your attention trees that drain well. These soils can also dry out
to the tree in the first place. All the branches are very quickly leading to death of the roots. Not a
in the right place and the tree is showing all the good thing. Thus, water becomes a major issue
signs of great age such as a thick trunk and aged to maintain healthy roots. We select soils that
bark. The cost of the tree is in part due to the skill allow for good root growth and are compromises
that was needed to bring the tree to the current between these two extremes. Our trees look best
stage of perfection. Bonsai trees are living trees when potted in shallow pots and the shallow pots
and as a result are constantly changing. After aggravate how fast the potting medium can dry
twenty years of careful attention the tree is not out. In fact, in warm weather the soil in a bonsai
considered finished but only a little is needed to pot can completely dry out to the bottom on the
maintain it as a fine bonsai. The second factor pot as quickly as a couple of days and this leads
in pricing a tree is the simple law of supply and to dry (and dead) roots. There are summer rains
demand. There are fewer fine bonsai trees on in the natural habitats where most of the trees
the market than there are people that want to buy that we select for bonsai grow. The soil near the
them and this drives up the price. surface may dry out between rains but there is
enough moisture beneath the surface to prevent
There is a third and less obvious factor in pricing the loss of roots. The soil does not dry out
a bonsai and that is the fact that the owner has completely as it would in a shallow pot.
asked a simple question each day without fail:
does this tree need watering? Over the twenty What happens in places where there is little
years he has owned the tree, he has asked this or no summer rain? Native California oaks are
question without fail for an amazing 7,300 days. found in such places. If we neglect to water our
If it is pouring rain in the middle of winter the oak bonsai for more than a few days, they will
answer to the question is easy but nonetheless die. Why the difference? In the wild the oaks
the question is asked. The pricing of the bonsai get by with the lack of summer rain in part by
also reflects this remarkable and unfailing going semi-dormant in the summer. Probably
devotion to the tree over the years. part of the dormancy cycle includes the roots
slowly hardening off to prepare for the dryer soil.
Watering your bonsai is a lot like feeding the Also, although the soil appears to be dry at the
family dog. It is not hard to do but must be surface, the level of moisture left deep in the
addressed every day. If you skip feeding the dog soil is enough to sustain the dormant roots. The
10 Winter 2021roots of the tree grow deeply to find the residual
moisture. If the winter rainfall is poor, the tree will
suffer because of low residual moisture content
of the deep soil and the tree may not survive an
extended period of drought lasting several years.
One can speculate that in nature the soil near the
surface slowly dries out as summer approaches,
leaving the roots time to prepare for a period of
low moisture. Oak bonsai however can dry out
quickly in the fast draining soil leaving no time for
the roots to harden off, so they die.
How often should you water your bonsai? That
depends on the soil you use and how quickly it
dries out as well as the weather where you live.
Obviously on hot days the soil will dry out more
quickly. Is your tree in full sun or part shade?
This, too, influences the dry out rate. Taking all
these factors into account you should probably
water about every three days or less in cold
weather, every two days in mild weather and
every day in hot weather. There are only rough
guidelines and, of course, actual water needs for
your trees may vary depending on your specific
circumstances. The crucial thing is to ask every
day without fail the question does this tree need
water?
This article appeared in the November 2020
newsletter, The Tree Shrinker, Volume LIX,
No.11, A MONTHLY BULLETIN, by the East
Bay Bonsai Society, Oakland, California. Tom
Colby is a long time member of EBBS and
author of numerous articles.
Volume 44, No.1 11Wetting Agent
By George Haas
On November 7, 2020, Peter Miller of the Marin Bonsai Club, San Rafael, California, presented me
with Grow More EZ Wet Soil Penetrant 26%, 1-Gallon in size. Peter and his wife are active in Master
Gardeners and have a history of using the product in growing their plants, including bonsai.
I have no experience with using a "wetting agent"
in either growing plants or bonsai. I checked
with the product's promotional information and
determine the following:
"EZ wet soil penetrant.-Can be used on any soil.-
Promotes a deeper root system.-Helps move
excess salt away from the root zone.- Non-ionic
and has a neutral ph.-Helps alleviate dry spots
and soil compaction problems.-Regular use will
promote a deeper root system.-Leach excess
salts away from the root zone, alleviate nun-off,
erosion.
Increases aeration
Improves drainage
Minimizes paddling
Leaches excess salts
Alcohol-free"
By chance, I came across an article in Golden Statements Magazine, dated June 1981, entitled
"Wetting Agents - Are They Something New?" by Don Markiewicz and Jan Harris. See the entire
article on page 13.
If anyone has personal experience with using a wetting agent with their bonsai, please provide your
feedback by emailing the editor at gwhaas@comcast.net.
12 Winter 2021WETTING AGENTS - ARE THEY SOMETHING NEW?
Don Markiewicz and Jan Harris
No, not really, because bonsaists have been using them for some time. Well, what are they? What
they are is much less important than what they do. But to satisfy your technical curiosity, the
label reads alkyl poly-ethylene ether. It is said to make plants stronger, aerate soil, quickens seed
germination, enhances the use of fertilizers, but above and beyond all that – it “wets peat moss!"
Have you ever tried to wet peat moss? With this new chemical it is most definitely a “cinch.”
This product, or wetting agent, is generally referred to by manufacturers as “a soil penetrant.” Check
the garden supply shelves where you do business and read carefully any label which boasts of
containing a “soil penetrant.” While there you may also notice commercially bagged planting and
potting soils claiming to have “a wetting agent” incorporated in their mix.
Hopefully, this will be “timely” information for the Azalea bonsai enthusiasts. And while the Azalea
folk are gearing up for their working peak, they might also give some thought to the use of fir bark. A
number of people are substituting fir bark for peat moss in their azalea mixes. Sometimes it is difficult
to acquire the “just right” size bark. In the San Francisco Bay Area, it is bagged in several convenient
sizes by the Rod McLellan Co., (noted growers of orchids).
But regardless of what kinds of plants you have or mix you use, give this stuff a try - you may like it.
P.S.: Don't rush to buy the big economy size yet - a little (l tbs. per gal.) can go a long way.
This article first appeared in Golden Statements Magazine, Volume IV Number VI, June 1981.
Volume 44, No.1 13Welcome to my Blog! person to study with in the United States. After
finishing his three year intensive program, I
By Peter Tea graduated and decided joined the Bay Island
Bonsai in 2007.
My name is Peter Tea and in this blog I will be
sharing my experiences as a bonsai artist and In 2008, I started my own bonsai business
instructor. I am located in San Jose, California called Peter Tea Bonsai as a way for me to
and have been working and traveling all over help educate the bonsai community, hone my
the United States. The purpose of this blog and teaching skills and make some extra money to
website is to share some of the things I’ve learned fund my bonsai hobby. I held workshops, study
in bonsai and to keep in touch with the ever groups, demonstrations, and sold bonsai related
growing bonsai community. I will post articles items.
about my bonsai projects along with helpful tips
and techniques for those seeking information
in improving their own skills. On top of all that, I
will also post about my bonsai life and the inner
workings of being an artist and instructor.
Aichien Bonsai Garden
Working on a large Japanese Black Pine in Japan.
A Little History of Myself
I started learning about Bonsai in 2001. I was an
automotive technician at a Ford dealership for
almost 10 years and bonsai was my hobby on the
side. As I got more interested and deeper into the
world of bonsai, I found myself thinking about it all
the time. I joined the Midori Bonsai Club in 2002 In 2011, I decided to change career paths and
and become the president in 2007 and 2008. traveled to Japan to study bonsai full time under
Mr. Junichiro Tanaka at Aichien Bonsai Garden.
Most of my bonsai training came in 2003 when I I was an apprentice for over two years and was
met Boon Manakitivitpart of BonsaiBoon.com. I released in 2013 having completed my five
signed up for his Bonsai Intensive Program after year apprenticeship early. With Mr. Tanaka’s
seeing him do a demonstration at the Sei Boku blessing, I returned to the United States in 2013
Kai Bonsai club meeting in San Mateo, California. ready to continue my business and work.
Once I visited his garden, I knew he was the
14 Winter 2021PETER TEA
BONSAI
Mr. Junichiro Tanaka
It’s been a heck of an experience so far and I
look forward to new experiences and meeting An American Bonsai Artist and Instructor
new people in the future!
• BONSAI LINKS
Peter Tea currently operates a full service
bonsai business in Auburn, California. • POST INDEX
His blog contains many articles of his
personal experiences in Japan as well • CONTACT ME
as tips and techniques in the art form of
bonsai. You can subscribe to his blog at • BONSAI SERVICES
https://peterteabonsai.wordpress.com/.
• ABOUT ME
• HOME
Volume 44, No.1 15A Complement to Jim Trumbly's Chronological
List of Satsuki Articles in The Azalean
By Ajit K. Thakur, Ph.D. - Springfield, Virginia
Introduction: The collective name Satsuki unusual azaleas (such as strap petals, petal-
comprised of two species, R. indicum Sweet less, variegated, etc.) From Creech's notes in
and R. tamurae Masamune (previously R. the English translation, Ihei's purpose was "
eriocarpum Nakai) and their various forms, ... to provide an illustrated description of the
varieties, cultivars, and hybrids is probably the azaleas in cultivation and to correct some of the
largest group of "evergreen" azaleas (over 4,000 confusion caused by name duplication." One
and still growing) in the world. Many of these finds association of many of Ihei's plants with
plants are popular bonsai materials as well as modem day Satsuki, R. kaempferi Planchon,
favorites of gardeners. There has been extensive and R. stenopetalum (Hogg) Mabb (previously
literature on the Satsuki describing their flower R. macrosepalum Maxim.) Makino forms. This
and leaf patterns, horticultural and agronomical collection is the first such on Satsuki azaleas that
aspects, their distribution in the wild, etc. The bloom during the fifth month of the Chinese lunar
present work summarizes most available calendar (approximately from the last week of
previous works on the Satsuki complementing May to the third week of June). There are a few
what Jim Trumbly has previously published. kaempferi and some stenopetalum azaleas and
Jim summarizes his findings on articles from hybrids that also bloom during this period. The
The Azalean and some monographs/books on term Satsuki was not coined at that time.
Satsuki azaleas in the following article:
Trumbly, J., "Chronological List of Satsuki
Articles in The Azalean." The Azalean. Winter
2016.38(4):85-86. The purpose of this present
article is to list works from other journals and
books/monographs on Satsuki azaleas published
in both English and Japanese with a few notes
by this author.
Other Informative Sources: Let us begin by
stating that any discussion of the Satsuki (R.
indicum Sweet) and Mamba Satsuki (R. tamurae
Masanume, previously R. eriocarpum Nakai) and
their hybrids must start with References 1 and 2
below:
1. Ihei, Ito. Kinshu Makura (English
translation-A Brocade Pillow, Azaleas of Old
Japan by Kaname Kato with introduction and
commentary by Dr. John L. Creech). Weatherhill,
New York. 1984. (See Fig. 1.) Ihei 's Kinshu
Makura was published in 1692 and included a
collection of 154 woodblock prints of flowers 2. Ohwi, J. Flora of Japan. (English
and foliage. The collection contained many edition of the author's 1953 original Japanese
16 Winter 2021work edited by Frederick G. Meyer and Egbert pink as he described; it is solid reddish orange. In
H. Walker). Smithsonian Institution, Washington, any case, this article contains one of the earliest
D.C., 1984. Dr. Ohwi's monumental work on American descriptions of the Satsuki outside of
Japan's flora is the most authentic of its kind. the USDA.
He describes the distribution of the Satsuki (R.
indicum and R. tamurae), their variability, and 6. Suzuki, H. and Suzuki, M. Satsuki
their natural hybrids. The book also contains Taikan. Unspecified Publisher. Tokyo. 1972. The
extensive coverage of all the Japanese species Suzukis published several monographs and
rhododendrons and azaleas and all other plants articles on Satsuki and bonsai. This book was
endemic to Japan. a compendium of all of that work by these two
famous authors.
3. Stevenson, J.B. Ed. The Species of
Rhododendron Azalea Series. Rhododendron 7. Creech, J.L. "A Distribution Note on
Society (United Kingdom). University Press, Rhododendron tamurae." Journal American
Edinburgh, Scotland. 1947, 2nd Edition. The Rhododendron Society. 1978. 32(2): 100.
section of this book that deals with azaleas (pp.
42-123) has a plant physiological description of 8. Creech, J.L. "Small and Sheared
the Satsuki along with the other series members. Rhododendrons Can Enhance Gardens."
It is a valuable reading. American Nurseryman. 1985.163: 48. (Reprinted
in The Azalean. December 1987. 9(4):63-65.)
4. Creech, J.L. Ornamental Plant
Explorations Japan 1961. Agricultural Research 9. Creech, J.L. "Evergreen Azaleas of
Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture in the Orient and Some Deciduous Species." The
cooperation with Longwood Gardens of the Azalean. September 1988. 10(3):43-45. Creech
Longwood Foundation, Inc. Volumes 34 - 75. discussed the origins of Satsuki (R. indicum)
1961. Figure 1-A Brocade Pillow by Kaname and Maruba Satsuki (Round Leaf Satsuki)
Kato and Introduction and commentary by (R. tamurae, previously R. eriocarpum), their
John L. Creech. (Reference 1.) Dr. Creech distribution, natural hybrids, color forms, and
went through the entire Japanese archipelago, other aspects. He described his visits and
including the Northernmost island Hokkaido experience in Kyushu and other islands in search
with his Japanese friends in search of various of these two species.
ornamental plants. They obtained cuttings and
seeds from the plants and took meticulous notes 10. Greer, H. "The Satsuki Azaleas."
including plant habits and location. Many aspects Journal American Rhododendron Society.
of R. indicum and R. tamurae are well covered in 1984.38(4): 174. The author discusses many
the monograph. historical aspects regarding the two Satsuki
species (R. indicum and R. tamurae), the
5. Radcliff, A.E. "Notes on Satsuki confusion in their species designations, and
Azaleas and Their Allies." Journal American many other relevant points. He also provides
Rhododendron Society. 1965.19(4):211. The some beautiful color photographs in this article.
author described his observations for several This is an article that Satsuki enthusiasts would
Satsuki hybrids based on his personal knowledge love to read.
of these plants. Many of them are correct with
some exceptions. For example, what the author 11. Kurume Tsutsuji Magazine Group.
called 'Gyrokushin' is actually 'Gyokushin'. The Kurume no Tsutsuji (Azaleas in Kurume).
former is not a Japanese name. Some of the
color descriptions are not correct either. For
example, 'Amagasa' (also called 'Tengasa') is not
Volume 44, No.1 17Ashishobo, Fukuoka, Japan, 1989. (See Fig. 2) cultivars that many of us are familiar with are
'Adesugata' and 'Seidai' ('Akashi'), 'Sankatsu' and
'Banzai' (Kuwano), 'Isochidori' and 'Wakaebisu'
(Annou), 'Otome' and 'Narihira' (Hisatomi).
According to this monograph, the commercial
production of Satsuki azaleas in the Kurume
area started in 1905 by three local nurserymen-
Messrs. Kumashiro, Egashiro, and Annou. They
published an exclusive Satsuki azalea catalog,
the first in Japan with a single plant group, in
1908.
Author's Note: From discussions with various
Satsuki enthusiasts in Japan and John Creech,
my understanding is that these nurserymen
called these plants Satsuki Tsutsuji or the
Fifth Chinese Lunar Calendar Month blooming
azaleas. In other words, the word Satsuki was
then used as an adjective. Shortly thereafter, the
Tsutsuji part was dropped in the common usage
and many collectors started calling them Satsuki
by making the word a proper noun. Actually, it
created a misunderstanding among the azalea
experts in Japan whereby they started listing
the Satsuki as a separate genre from the other
evergreen azaleas.
This monograph was published in conjunction
with the 1989 First International Azalea Festival 12. Okita, I.Zi Kan Satsuki (Satsuki Picture
that took place in Kurume, Japan. Each chapter Dictionary). Bunken Shupan, Year of Publication
of this wonderful monograph is in both Japanese Missing. Tokyo, Japan. (In Japanese with English
and English, the latter having been supervised plant names.)
by Dr. John L. Creech. There were speeches
by various experts on both Japanese species 13. Nakajima, S. Satsuki Niumon
and hybrid azaleas (evergreen and deciduous). (Introduction to Satsuki). Kin Ensha, Tokyo,
The hybrids covered were the Kurume, Satsuki, Japan, 1985 (in Japanese). The above two
Hirado, and some other minor groups. It contains books complement John Creech's findings of the
many Satsuki, Kurume, and Kurume-Satsuki Satsuki.
intergroup hybrids developed in the Kurume
area. It discusses the origin, culture (such as 14. Thakur, A.K. "The Enchanting Satsuki,
soil condition, fertilizers, watering, fungicides Part I." The Azalean. December 1989. 11(4):64-
and pesticides) and developmental history 68.
of the Satsuki azaleas. It lists many of the
modem Satsuki cultivars by various growers In the Fall of 1988, I gave a two-hour
and hybridizers in the Kurume area. The Akashi presentation on the Satsuki at the Potomac
Kourakuen Nursery, Kuwano Youseien Nursery, Valley Chapter of the American Rhododendron
Annou Kairakuen Nursery, Hisatomi Senkaen Society. Donald Voss presided over the meeting
Nursery, and Hisatomi Koukaen Nursery are and took meticulous notes. Later, I gave another
some of the prominent ones. Some of their talk at the ASA annual meeting held in Northern
18 Winter 2021Virginia attended by Don, Malcolm Clark, and being a plant geneticist, further discusses some
Fred Galle. They all encouraged me to write it scientific aspects of the Satsuki.
up and publish in The Azalean. Don gave me
his notes from my lecture and I wrote a two part 19. Rokkaku, K. Satsuki Hanagara Hya Ka
article that was published by The Azalean. In (One Hundred Satsuki Flowers). Gekkan Satsuki
Part 1, I described the origin, distribution, naming Kenkyusha. Tochigi-Ke, Japan. 1979.
convention, and various other aspects of the
Satsuki and Maruba Satsuki. My descriptions 20. Rokkaku, K. Joku Satsuki Hanagara
were based on my personal visits of various Hya Ka (Another Hundred Satsuki Flowers).
locations in Japan and conversations and Gekkan Satsuki Kenkyusha. Tochigi-Ke,
contacts with my friends Hideo Suzuki, Yuji Japan. 1980. The Gekkan Satsuki Kenkyusha
Kurashige, Dr. Tsuneshigo Rokujo, Dr. John introduced two hundred Satsuki with photographs
Creech, and Dr. Masaaki Kunishige, all Japanese and descriptions in the above two books.
plant explorers and horticulturalists. I also
gathered quite a lot of Japanese literature from 21. Kunishige, M. and Y. Kobayashi.
both new and used book stores in Kyoto, Tokyo, "Chromatographic Identification of Japanese
and Osaka. My wife Dr. Yoko Hirohashi Thakur Azalea Species and their Hybrids" in
translated them when I needed help. I will not Contributions toward a Classification of
repeat what I wrote because one can read them Rhododendrons. J.L. Luteyn and M.E. O'Brien,
in my article in reference number 14 above. Eds. New York Botanical Garden. 1980. As the
title implies, this publication discusses many
15. Creech, J.L. The Bonsai Saga: How genetic and other scientific investigations
the Bicentennial Collection Came to America, of Japanese azalea species and hybrids
U.S. National Arboretum. National Bonsai including the Satsuki. They did chromatographic
Foundation. 200l. Creech discusses how the identification of these plants. Their investigation
bonsai collection which contains many Satsuki, reveals the complex anthocyanin complement
a few Kurume, and a few conifers found their due to crossing of species containing cyanidin
way to the National Arboretum. There are and malvidin. Though the article is rather
photographs of these plants along with his notes. technical, it helps in understanding the
characteristics of different hybrid groups.
16. Kennedy, A. Floral Treasures of Japan:
Satsuki Azaleas. Stone Lantern Publishing 22. Tasaki, K, Nakatsuki, A., and
Company. Passumpsic, Vermont. 1997. N. Kobayashi. "Morphological Analysis of
Narrow-petaled Cultivars of Rhododendron
17. Ugajin, T. "Satsuki Azaleas as Dwarf macrosepalum Maxim." Journal of the Japanese
Potted Shrubs," in Sam Gardener, Toyotaeo Society of Horticultural Science. 2012.81(1):72.
Aoshima, Kan Yashiroda et. al., Eds. The Art of
Japanese Bonsai Trees-How to Grow and Train Although the title of the article may seem to imply
Dwarf Trees Like a Bonsai Master. Kindle Edition, that it is on the linearifolium (strap-petal) forms of
August 9,2001 (ASIN B005GR11GE). R. macrosepalum (now R. stenopetalum) (Mochi
Tsutsuji or the Big Sepal Azalea), it covers similar
18. Callaham, R.Z. Satsuki Azaleas for forms of R. kaempferi (Yama Tsutsuji, Torch
Bonsai Enthusiasts and Azalea Lovers. Stone Azalea), and R. indicum (Satsuki). It provides a
Lantern Publishing Company. Passumpsic, detailed morphological analysis to investigate the
Vermont. 2006. The authors of these books origin of linearifolium forms of many cultivars of
discuss various aspects of Satsuki azaleas in these three species.
general and their bonsai forms in particular, such
as their cultural requirements. Dr. Callaham, The Gekkan Satsuki Ken Kyusha (Satsuki
Volume 44, No.1 19Research Association) is the most authentic that are narrow like the mother plant's. Its name
and extensive organization for Satsuki azaleas. is 'Yuki-nohana' (Snow of Brilliance). The plant
They publish monthly newsletters (available for was introduced first in the 1992 edition. So far as
members only) but unfortunately, all of them are I know, it has not been brought into the U.S. I will
in Japanese with Kanji characters for the plant cite the editions I have:
names. Every 4-5 years, since 1979, they have
been publishing a beautiful "encyclopedia" of 23. Rokkaku, K. Shin Satsuld Jiten, (New
available Satsuki and Mamba Satsuki (species, Satsuld Dictionary). Gekkan Satsuki Ken Kyusha
varieties, forms, and hybrids) with slightly (Satsuki Research Association). Kanuma-Shi,
variable titles. The 1983 edition had the title Shin Tochi-Ken, Japan. 1983.
Satsuki Jiten (The New Satsuki Dictionary) with
Kenko Rokkaku as the editor. The books contain 24. Gekkan Satsuki Ken Kyusha (Satsuki
beautiful color photographs with the origins of Research Association). Satsuld Jiten (Satsuld
the plants (when known) along with their cultivar Dictionary). Tochino-Ha-Shobo, Kanuma-Shi,
names in English. Originally, they used to name Tochigi, Japan. (Revised Edition). 1987.
the title as Satsuki Jiten (Satsuki Dictionary).
Then, with the 2001 edition, they changed the 25. Gekkan Satsuki Ken Kyusha (Satsuki
title to Satsuki Dai Jiten (Satsuki Big Dictionary). Research Association). Satsuld Dai Jiten
Finally, for the 2014 edition, they changed the (Satsuld Large Dictionary). Tochino-Ha-Shobo,
title again to Satsuki Zukan (Satsuki Illustrated Kanuma-Shi, Tochigi, Japan, 1992.
Encyclopedia). I have their 1983 edition Shin
Satsuki Jiten (the New Satsuki Dictionary), 26. Gekkan Satsuki Ken Kyusha (Satsuki
the 1987 edition (Satsuki Jiten, the Revised Research Association). Satsuki Dai Jiten (Satsuki
Edition), the 1992 and 1995 editions (Satsuki Large Dictionary). Tochino-Ha-Shobo, Kanuma-
Jiten), the 2001 edition (Satsuki Dai Jiten) and Shi, Tochigi, Japan, 1995.
finally the 2014 edition tSatsuki Zi Kan). Each
edition excludes some plants that are not readily 27. Gekkan Satsuki Ken Kyusha (Satsuki
available and includes new introductions. The Research Association). Satsuki Dai Jiten (Satsuki
2014 edition of the book is under a new title, Large Dictionary). Tochino-HaShabo, Kanuma-
Satsuki Zi Kan, includes an English index for the Shi, Tochigi, Japan, 2001.
first time. Along with many other rare Japanese
publications, this item can be had from the 28. Gekkan Satsuki Ken Kyusha (Satsuki
Kino Kunya book store chain in Seattle, New Research Association). Satsuld Dai Zukan
York, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Chicago and (Satsuld Illustrated Encyclopedia). Tochino-Ha-
several other places. All enquiries should be Shobo, KanumaShi, Tochigi, Japan, 2014.
made online to: bookwebusa@kinokuniya.com.
29. Gekkan Satsuki Ken Kyusha (Satsuki
The orders are shipped directly from their Research Association). Satsuld Sen Sue Zukan
headquarters in Shijuoka, Tokyo. In the later (Pictorial Book of the 1000 Varieties of Satsuki).
issues, the work lists a newly introduced branch Tochino-Ha-Shobo, Kanuma-Shi, Tochigi, Japan,
sport of 'Kinsai' an indicum selection, which 2017. (See Fig 3)
also goes by the name 'Kin-no-sai', 'Kinzai',
'Kinno-zai', 'Shide-satsuki' (Satsuki with Ragged 30. Gekkan Satsuki Ken Kyusha (Satsuki
Streamers, referring to strap or laciniated petals); Research Association). Reiwa Version of Satsuki
and sold in America as 'Polypetalum'). This new Illustrated Book of 1400 Species. Tochino-Ha-
sport, 'Yuki-no-hana' (Snow Brilliance) is a neat Shobo, KanumaShi, Tochigi, Japan, 2020.
plant with red strap petal flowers like the ones
on 'Kinsai' with white edged or variegated leaves Author's Note: When I started collecting Satsuki
20 Winter 2021Satsuki 'Kazan' (meaning Flowery Mountain,
with entirely different flower and plant forms), a
Kurume hybrid, and a Hirado hybrid that are also
pronounced as 'Kazan' but their Kanji characters
are different from each other.
31. Thakur, A.K., "The Enchanting Satsuki,
Part 2." The Azalean. March 1990.12 (1):4-7,15-
16. The Bonsai Clubs International (BCI), which
has many international clubs under its umbrella,
publishes a magazine (Bonsai Magazine) that
contains many pieces of information regarding
the Satsuki. It is not just for bonsai lovers; it is
an important magazine for Satsuki lovers as
well. The following article by the Bonsai master
Tatemori Gondo discusses some interesting
issues about the use of Satsuki. According to
records, Satsuki azaleas were prohibited for the
in the 1980s, several azalea propagators were commoners to use. They were only allowed to be
selling 'Kinsai' (Golden Plant) by all different used by temples, shrines, and noble people until
names stating there were different plants. (See during the early Edo period (1603-1864). During
Photo 1.) One nurseryman who sold thousands the Taisho period (1912-1926) Japanese people
of Satsuki to garden centers and naive collectors got interested in using the Satsuki for bonsai
like me, even called it a form of R. linearifolium purposes.
(now considered to be R. stenopetalum), variety
'Red Spider'. So, after my first year my 'Kinsai', 32. Gondo, T. (Translated by K. Okimura
'Kinzai', in the West also called 'Shide-satsuki' with Sketches by C. Gratz). "Satsuki Bonsai",
(Satsuki with Ragged Streamers), 'Red Spider' Bonsai Magazine. 2001.40(3):20.
all bloomed. They all had identical narrow
leaf form and narrow laciniated flowers! One The following article provides some suggestions
interesting thing about the meaning of the name regarding pruning of Satsuki azaleas:
'Kinsai'- in English it means golden plant. The
flowers are red on this plant. I suspect the name 33. Fassio, D. "After-Flower Pruning
derives from the autumn foliage which could be of Satsuki Azaleas in California." Golden
deep orange. In an earlier article in The Azalean Statements. 2005. 28(3):13.
(Reference No. 31 below), I mentioned another
Satsuki that was incorrectly named in America The following books are for various aspects
and was being sold under three different names. of Satsuki such as their cultural requirements,
The beautiful dwarf Satsuki is 'Kazan' (Deer bonsai quality, etc. Most of them are how-to type.
Mountain), in Japan, also called 'Buncho'- (Java They have beautiful color photographs:
Sparrow), and in the West 'Kakuba-chinzan'
which means Pointed Leaf Chinzan; a sport of 34. Token, K., Editor. Satsuki Meika (The
the old garden variety of R. indicum selection Book of Satsuki Azaleas). Ikeda Publishing Co.,
called 'Osakazuki'. Because of a mix-up Kanagawa. 1971.
during the original introduction, it was listed as
'Rukizon' in American publications. The word 35. Okita, Y. Satsuki Nyumon (Introduction
'Rukizon' does not exist in Japanese language!
To make matters even worse, there is a second
Volume 44, No.1 21to Satsuki). Hoikusha, Osaka. 1971. or another, he collected all the evergreen
and deciduous species and most of the
36. Suzuki, M., Editor. Satsuki Nyumon Satsuki hybrids introduced into the USA.
(Introduction to Satsuki). Goto Shoin, Osaka, Many of them are still thriving. (See examples
1971. in Photos 2-4.) He has given seminars on
azaleas on many occasions at various
37. Ishikawa, M., Suzuki, N., and Kurihara, locations and has written about these azaleas
S. Satsuki Kante Jiten (Satsuki Appraisal in The Azalean. He is a long standing member
Dictionary). Gendai Kikaku Shitsu, Tokyo. 1975. of the Northern Virginia Chapter of the ASA.
Remember, you too can write for the The
38. Naka, lY., Ota, R.K., and Rokkaku, Azalean. Contact: theazalean@gmail.com.
K. Bonsai Techniques for Satsuki. Ota Bonsai
Nursery Publication, Gekkan Satsuki Kenkyusha.
Tokyo, Japan, 1979. (Very Expensive, $200 on
Amazon.)
39. Akabane, M. Satsuki, 2nd Edition.
Nippon Hoso Kyokai (NHK, the only Japanese
Public Broadcasting Corporation) (Japan
Broadcasting Corporation). Shibuya-Ku, Tokyo.
1989.
40. Nakayama, S. Satsuki Nyumon
(Introduction to Satsuki). KinEnsha, Tokyo. 1985.
41. Tochinoha Shobou Co. Ltd. Satsuki
Jiten (Satsuki Dictionary). Kanuma-Shi, Tochigi,
Japan, 2004.
42. Www.satsukimania.com/en/varieties.
Shibue Satsuki Azalea Bonsai Garden, Kanuma-
Shi, Tochigi, Japan, (A website maintained by
the Bonsai Garden containing high resolution
authentic photographs of many Satsuki azaleas
along with their origins, when known). Remember
to put the "en" in the link to get the English
version.
43. Www.tangorin.com (An online
Japanese-to-English dictionary. Very helpful
to understand the Japanese names of many
plants.)
Dr. Ajit K. Thakur is a retired statistician
whose love for azaleas (East Asian evergreen
species, East Asian and North American
deciduous species, and Satsuki and Kurume
hybrids) spans about 45 years. At one time
22 Winter 2021This article first appeared in The Azalean,
Vol 2, No 2, Summer 2020 and is reprinted
with the permission of its author, Dr. Ajit K.
Thakur
Volume 44, No.1 23Lifelines/Timelines
The Huntington Gardens Bonsai Collection
One of the most common questions we get about our bonsai collection at the Huntington is “How old
is that tree?’” notes Huntington Gardens Bonsai Curator Ted Matson, talking about the new “Lifelines/
Timelines: Exploring The Huntington’s Collections Through Bonsai” exhibit at the Huntington. In this
exhibition, Matson continues, “we not only reveal how we can estimate the ages of some of our oldest
bonsai trees, but demonstrate how a lifeline for a tree’s survival builds a timeline into history.”
The exhibition links works from The Huntington’s broad collections and traces the flow of time as it
compares the age of five California juniper bonsai trees to significant pieces in the library and art
collections and to landmarks in the Huntington’s 100-year history.
One bonsai tree and a related display have been placed outside each of five gallery spaces: the
Mapel Orientation Gallery, the Library Exhibition Hall, the Dibner Hall of the History of Science, the
Huntington Art Gallery, and the Virginia Steele Scott Galleries of American Art.
Lines in the grain of natural deadwood sections of the five bonsai on display have been used to
calculate each tree's age, much like the rings in a cross-section of a trunk are counted to determine a
tree’s age.
Which line of a tree's growth corresponds to the publication of Shakespeare's First Folio in 1623?
How does its age relate to the creation of Thomas Gainsborough's masterpiece, The Blue Boy? Each
of the bonsai include an illustrated timeline that helps answer these questions and highlights three
items normally on view in the respective gallery. Flags pinned to ridges in the bonsai's deadwood
indicate how old the tree was when the gallery objects were created.
Unfortunately, the galleries themselves are currently closed due to COVID-19.
In fact, the exhibit was originally scheduled to open early this past spring as one of the keystone
events of the Huntington’s yearlong Centennial Celebration. The exhibition had to be postponed
because of COVID-19. “A few days after the exhibition’s opening in March, The Huntington closed to
visitors,” recalls Matson. “We eventually moved the bonsai back to the nursery.”
Over the summer, the trees had to be rewired, groomed, and prepped all over again for the
rescheduled October opening. And, says Matson, “Thanks to our dedicated bonsai volunteers, the
trees are once again looking their very best for this special exhibition."
“Lifelines/Timelines” will be on display at the Huntington through January 25, 2021.
The Huntington is located at 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino, CA, 12 miles from downtown Los
Angeles. Information: 626-405-2100 or huntington.org.
Portions of this article are reprinted from the Huntington's Verso blog, used with permission.
24 Winter 2021California juniper bonsai (Juniperus californica), styled from plant material approximately 500 years.
Photo by Andrew Mitchell. Right: Frederic Edwin Church, Chimborazo, 1864 (detail.) The Huntington
Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens
California juniper (Juniperus californica), moyogi or informal upright style bonsai, estimated age of
original plant material: 1,000 years. Collected from Jawbone Canyon, Mojave Desert in 2002, grafted
in 2006, and styled by Tak Shimazu, displayed in Keizan Tokoname pot from Japan, donated by the
Bergstein Family. Photo by Andrew Mitchell. Mark Catesby, Bull Frog (Rana maxima), Natural History
of Carolina, Florida and the Bahama Islands, 1743. The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botani-
cal Gardens
Volume 44, No.1 25California juniper (Juniperus californica), han-kengai or semicascade style bonsai, estimated age of original by Sara Rayner, collected, styled, and donated by Shig Miya. Photo by Andrew Mitchell. Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens California juniper (Juniperus californica), shakan or slant style bonsai, estimated age of original plant material: 200–300 years. Collected from the Mojave Desert, displayed in Tokoname pot from Japan, donated by Grigsby Cactus Gardens. Photo by Andrew Mitchell. Early visitors tour The Huntington in an undated photo. The institution opened to the public in 1928. The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens 26 Winter 2021
plant material: 1,500–1,800 years. Collected from Jawbone Canyon, Mojave Desert, displayed in pot made
Ellesmere manuscript of Geoffrey Chaucer’s The Canterbury Tales, ca. 1400–1410. The Huntington Library,
California juniper (Juniperus californica), moyogi or informal upright style bonsai, estimated age
of original plant material: 1,200–1,500 years. Collected from the Mojave Desert, displayed in Ita-
yama Tokoname pot from Japan, donated by the Bergstein Family, on loan from the Golden State
Bonsai Federation. Photo by Andrew Mitchell. Edward Burne-Jones (designer) for Morris and
Company, David Healey Memorial Window, 1898, glass and lead. Photo by Tim Street-Porter.
The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens
Volume 44, No.1 27Volunteers needed!
The core of Golden State Bonsai Federation is comprised of some very dedicated, intelligent and
friendly people who thoroughly enjoy the art of bonsai. It is because of this interest in bonsai, many
are willing to unselfishly teach and promote to perpetuate the art form…for nearly 44 years, GSBF
has operated successfully as a volunteer non-profit organization.
Those who have served on the GSBF Board and committees have managed to keep the organiza-
tion operational and successful. The results of their efforts have been commendable having created
a viable club insurance program, held 42 annual conventions…produced a quality magazine and
partnered with other organizations to create and manage three major bonsai collections. GSBF once
again as it has in the past has some significant challenges that if ignored could be very detrimental
to the future sustainability of the organization. Fortunately, there are many past presidents and board
members that continue to volunteer their time to keep the organization operating. However, we want
you to think about how you can contribute to having GSBF continue for another 40 years. Give some
serious thought to volunteering even if it’s in a minor role. GSBF is only as good as its volunteers and
you can be one. Don’t be shy about asking? We promise you that it will be a rewarding and worth-
while experience.
At present, the Golden State Bonsai Federation has the following volunteer openings:
»» 2nd Vice President
»» Insurance Coordinator
»» Comptroller
»» Editor of Golden Statements Magazine starting in January 2021 – George Haas has been
outstanding as the Editor for the last 3 years. George is stepping down in December 2020 and will
not be filling that role in 2021.
If you are interested in any of the open positions or might wish to volunteer to help GSBF in any other
way, please contact Mario Rendina at jmariorendina@gmail.com or via cell phone: 619-743-6664.
28 Winter 2021You can also read
