Bonsai trees are tiny versions of big trees, and they can live for a very long time. These small trees are taken care of very carefully. People prune them (which means they trim the branches) and take great care of them. This special attention helps these trees live longer than they would in nature, often for more than a hundred years.
The way to keep them healthy and living long is through careful pruning, changing their pots, and making sure they grow the right way. This helps the tree not get too stressed. With lots of care, some bonsai trees can even live for hundreds of years.
- 1. Ficus Retusa Linn at Crespi Bonsai Museum, Italy
- 2. Sandai-Shogun-No Matsu at Tokyo Imperial Palace, Japan
- 3. Jomon Sugi at Shikoku, Japan
- 4. Old Juniper Bonsai at Mansei-en Bonsai Nursery, Japan
- 5. Chinese Elm at Walter Pall, Europe
- 6. Goshin by John Y. Naka at the National Bonsai & Penjing Museum, USA
- 7. Yamaki White Pine at the National Bonsai & Penjing Museum, USA
Here are 7 of the oldest bonsai trees you can admire:
1. Ficus Retusa Linn at Crespi Bonsai Museum, Italy
This bonsai is a stunning specimen, over 1,000 years old. It’s a Ficus retusa Linn, a type of fig tree. The tree is housed at the Crespi Bonsai Museum in Italy.
This museum is known for its extensive bonsai collection. The tree’s gnarled trunk and lush foliage make it a remarkable sight. Its longevity and resilience are admired worldwide.
2. Sandai-Shogun-No Matsu at Tokyo Imperial Palace, Japan
This is a majestic White Pine bonsai. It’s more than 500 years old and has a royal connection. It has been cared for by generations of Japan’s royal family. Located at the Tokyo Imperial Palace, it’s a symbol of tradition and beauty. Its elegant, curved branches reflect centuries of careful cultivation.
3. Jomon Sugi at Shikoku, Japan
This tree is a Japanese Cedar and is extremely old, estimated between 2,000 to 7,000 years. It’s on the island of Shikoku in Japan. Jomon Sugi isn’t a traditional bonsai, but its age and stature are revered. It represents endurance and the passage of time. The tree’s massive size and twisted form are awe-inspiring.
By Chris 73 / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
4. Old Juniper Bonsai at Mansei-en Bonsai Nursery, Japan
Located in the famous Omiya Bonsai Village, this Juniper bonsai is over 1,000 years old. The Mansei-en Bonsai Nursery, where it resides, is known for its historic trees. This bonsai has a rugged appearance, with a thick, twisted trunk. It’s a living testament to the art of bonsai cultivation.
5. Chinese Elm at Walter Pall, Europe
This Chinese Elm is a millennium old. It’s in the care of Walter Pall, a renowned bonsai artist in Europe. The tree stands as a symbol of survival and resilience. Its intricate branch structure and delicate leaves are captivating. The tree’s history and Pall’s expert care make it a remarkable bonsai.
6. Goshin by John Y. Naka at the National Bonsai & Penjing Museum, USA
Goshin, meaning “protector of the spirit,” is a unique creation. It’s a forest planting of eleven Foemina Junipers. Each tree is over 100 years old. Created by John Y. Naka, it’s showcased at the National Bonsai & Penjing Museum in Washington, D.C. This bonsai reflects harmony and balance. It’s a tribute to Naka’s skill and vision.
7. Yamaki White Pine at the National Bonsai & Penjing Museum, USA
This White Pine is over 400 years old. It survived the atomic bombing of Hiroshima. Now, it’s at the National Bonsai & Penjing Museum in Washington, D.C. The tree symbolizes peace and resilience. Its history is as compelling as its appearance. The tree’s graceful form and survival story are truly inspiring.
