What picture does your mind paint when you hear the ‘bonsai tree’? Do you think of a small, cute tree sitting on your shelf? Well, that is right! bonsai trees are usually known to be miniaturized plants and trees which are kept in containers.
But have you ever wondered how big do bonsai trees get? The answer is, it varies. Depending on the type of tree, the pot size, and how old it is, bonsai trees can be anywhere from a few inches to several feet tall.
We’ll cover everything about how big can bonsai trees get. So, let’s begin:
The Major Categories – Dwarf, Mini, Medium and Large Bonsai Trees:
| Bonsai Tree Category | Height | Requirements | Hand Size |
| Dwarf bonsai trees | 1 – 3 inches | Need to be put in a mini pot | Fingertip |
| Miniature bonsai trees | 3 – 8 Inches | Need to be put in smaller containers (bigger than mini pots) | One-hand |
| Medium bonsai trees | 10 – 36 inches | Need to be put in a larger pot | Two-hands |
| Large bonsai trees | 36+ inches | They need more space and require a larger pot and more soil to accommodate their root systems. | Four-hands to Eight-hands |
When it comes to training bonsai trees, size matters. Smaller trees are easier to shape and can be shaped more quickly, while larger trees take longer and require more skill.
How Big Do Dwarf Bonsai Trees Get?
Kenshitsubo
These tiny bonsai trees can fit in the palm of your hand and hardly grow up to 3 inches tall. These bonsai trees originated in Japan and are popular amongst micro-bonsai hobbyists.
Mame Bonsai
These small bonsais usually measure no more than two inches in height and can be trained to fit into a mini pot or even a thimble.
Shito Bonsai
This mini bonsai tree grows to a maximum of three inches in height and is often used for micro-bonsai displays. They are commonly known as fingertip size.
How Big Do Mini Bonsai Trees Get?
Shohin
This miniature variety of bonsai can reach up to 10 inches in height, making them the tallest of the mini bonsais. An interesting thing about this type of bonsai is that they can be trained with wires or ties to shape the branches and trunk.
Komono Bonsai Tree
The Komono Bonsai is a popular species of tree used in bonsai cultivation. It has a slow growth rate and is between 6 to 10 inches tall. The trunk is usually one and a half inches in diameter, and the foliage is delicate, dark green, needles. This species of tree is excellent for beginners because of its slow growth rate and easy-to-manage size.
How Big Do Medium Bonsai Trees Get?
Katade-Mochi
This variety of the Bonsai tree can reach between 10-18 inches in height. It is a deciduous, coniferous tree, which means it will lose its leaves in the winter and is native to Japan. It has short, broad foliage that turns beautiful shades of red and purple during the fall season.
Chokkan
Chokkan is another type of medium-sized bonsai tree that typically grows between 12-20″ in height. The tree’s trunk is straight, and its branches are symmetrically placed. This type of bonsai is often used to create a formal upright look and can be found in many varieties of trees, such as pines, maples, and elms.
Moyogi
Moyogi is another type of medium-sized bonsai tree. They usually reach heights of between eighteen and twenty inches. Interestingly, the branches of these trees tend to be arranged in an s-shape, and the trunk is often rounded. While this may not seem like much, Moyogi trees can be quite beautiful thanks to their unique shape.
Chumono
A Chumono is a medium-sized bonsai tree that usually reaches heights of between sixteen and thirty-six inches. The trunk size can vary greatly depending on the tree species, but it generally ranges between two and six inches in diameter.
Chumono
A Chumono is a medium-sized bonsai tree that usually reaches heights of between sixteen and thirty-six inches. The trunk size can vary greatly depending on the tree species, but it generally ranges between two and six inches in diameter.
How Big Do Large Bonsai Trees Get?
Omono
This type of bonsai tree can grow between 30 – 48 inches in height and can have a width of two feet. The Omono bonsai tree is best grown outdoors in well-drained soils and requires plenty of sunlight.
Hachi-Uye
The Hachi-Uye bonsai tree is a Japanese flowering species that grows between 40 – 60 inches in height. It also has a width of two feet. This bonsai tree is best grown in acidic soil and should be placed outdoors in a sunny area to get the most sunlight possible.
Imperial
Imperial bonsai trees are large and can grow between 60 – 80 inches tall. Originating from Japan, they are considered an imperial symbol of the nation. This type of bonsai tree is often cultivated and carefully pruned by professional growers.
Kotobuki
Also called ‘longevity bonsai’, this type of tree grows very slowly and can reach up to 157 inches in height. This is the most common type of bonsai tree, popular in Japan and China due to its long lifespan.
Juniper Bonsai Trees – An Overview (Bonsai Tree Category – Large)
- Bonsai trees are famous for their unique and captivating beauty, and the juniper bonsai tree is one of the most common varieties. Native to Asia and North America, juniper bonsai trees can reach heights of up to 6 feet but are typically trained to stay much shorter.
- This is done by pruning the branches, shaping them with wire, and repotting as needed – making it possible for a tree that would usually grow tall and wide to become a smaller and more manageable size.
- Bonsai trees come in many different varieties, with the juniper bonsai being one of the easier species to maintain. They are hardy and resilient plants that can adapt well to various climates, making them great for beginners who want to learn about bonsai gardening.
- Juniper Bonsai trees need regular watering, fertilizing, and pruning to maintain their desired shape. Over time, if taken care of properly, a Juniper Bonsai tree can grow up to 8 feet tall – depending on the variety – although this is rare and should be done under the guidance of experienced bonsai gardeners.
How Big Do Juniper Bonsai Trees Get?
Wondering how big a juniper bonsai tree gets? The answer depends on the species of juniper used. Some varieties, like Juniperus procumbens ‘nana’, are naturally small and can reach a mature height of only 8-12 inches. In contrast, other varieties such as Juniperus Pfitzeriana aurea bonsai can reach up to 4 feet in height!
Ficus Bonsai Trees – An Overview (Bonsai Tree Category – Large)
- Bonsai trees are miniature trees grown in pots. They’re rooted cuttings or seedlings of regular trees and can be kept indoors or outdoors. The most popular kind of bonsai tree is the ficus bonsai, which grows well both inside and out depending on its environment.
- Ficus bonsai are known for their glossy green leaves, making them ideal for indoors. They also come in various shapes and sizes, from small to large.
- The most popular type of ficus bonsai is the Benjamina ficus, which can grow up to 10 feet tall inside and over fifteen feet tall outdoors.
How Big Do Ficus Bonsai Trees Get?
When kept inside, the size of ficus bonsai trees can be easily controlled by pruning and trimming. This type of tree is often used for styling in various shapes, like cascades and broom styles. The average size for ficus bonsai kept indoors will range from eight inches to three feet tall.
When grown outdoors, ficus bonsai trees can reach up to 10 feet or even more, depending on the conditions. They prefer a full-sun environment and will require regular watering and fertilizer to survive. It’s important to note that ficus bonsai trees grown outdoors are more prone to pests and diseases than those kept indoors.
Japanese Bonsai Trees – An Overview (Bonsai Tree Category – Mini To Medium)
- Bonsai trees, which originated in the Far East centuries ago and are now popular around the world, have become an integral part of Japanese culture. Bonsai is a traditional art form that cultivates miniature trees through careful pruning and training techniques. Bonsai cultivation aims to create small but beautiful replicas of full-sized trees.
- Japanese bonsai trees come in many varieties. Some of the most popular include pine, maple, and juniper. Depending on the species, bonsai trees can range in size from a few inches tall to more than three feet in height. In addition to their size, Japanese bonsai trees also differ in terms of shape: they can be shaped into trunk designs such as formal upright (chokkan), informal upright (moyogi), cascade (kengai), and broom style (hokidachi). Pruning is essential to maintain the desired shape of a bonsai tree.
- Regardless of their size, all Japanese bonsai trees share certain characteristics. They are usually trained to grow in an upright direction and feature a single trunk that can be shaped into various designs. The foliage of the bonsai tree is pruned to maintain its small size and shape, while the branches are often wired into position.
- Japanese bonsai trees require specific care and maintenance to thrive. This includes regular watering, fertilizing, and repotting every two years. With proper care, Japanese bonsai trees can live for decades, providing a unique and beautiful addition to any home or garden.
How Big Do Japanese Bonsai Trees Get?
The size of Japanese bonsai trees varies depending on the species and variety. Some varieties, such as juniper, can reach heights of up to three feet, while others may be as small as a few inches. Dwarf pine (matsu) is a popular variety that typically reaches a height of around two feet. Other common varieties are maple (acer), pine (pinus), Japanese white pine (shimpaku), and cedar (cryptomeria).
Hawaiian Umbrella Bonsai Trees – An Overview (Bonsai Tree Category- Miniature)
- Hawaiian umbrella bonsai trees (Schefflera arboricola) are a popular and attractive species of tropical evergreen shrubs. Native to Taiwan and the Philippines, they are found in subtropical regions of both countries.
- Hawaiian umbrella bonsai trees typically reach heights between 8 – 12 inches with graceful arching leaves. The trunks of these trees are often multi-stemmed, making them perfect for bonsai training and styling.
- The leaves of Hawaiian umbrella bonsai trees grow in clusters of five or ten leaflets. Each leaflet is long and typically has a leathery texture and an attractive glossy sheen. The leaflets are usually a mid to dark green color, although new growth can be lighter in hue, and older leaves may become darker with age.
- Hawaiian umbrella bonsai trees thrive in bright, indirect sunlight and need protection from harsh afternoon sun due to their tropical nature. They should be watered once every week or two and should never be allowed to dry out. It is also essential to fertilize Hawaiian umbrella bonsai trees regularly, using a fertilizer with high nitrogen content.
How Big Do Hawaiian Umbrella Bonsai Trees Get?
The Hawaiian Umbrella Bonsai is a popular bonsai tree due to its striking leaves, which appear to be arranged in an umbrella pattern. This small tree only grows up to 8 – 12 inches tall, making it ideal for those who want a smaller bonsai tree.
Twisted Trunk Bonsai Trees – An Overview (Bonsai Tree Category- Medium)
- Twisted trunk bonsai trees are a type of bonsai tree that feature one or more trunks with a tightly twisted pattern. In the traditional style, these trees feature a winding trunk at the base, which then spreads out into multiple branches and, eventually, foliage. These trees are usually quite tall, often reaching heights of up to six feet or more.
- In terms of care and cultivation, twisted-trunk bonsai trees are relatively easy to care for. They require similar amounts of light and water as other types of bonsai trees. In addition, they only need to be pruned or trained as often as some other varieties. This makes them a popular choice among novice bonsai enthusiasts.
How Big Do Twisted Trunk Bonsai Trees Get?
Twisted trunk bonsai trees are one of the most stunning and visually captivating forms of bonsai. The unique shapes and contorted trunks of these trees can make them look like they are ancient, grown over hundreds of years. But how big do twisted-trunk bonsai trees get?
The size of a twisted trunk bonsai tree largely depends on its age and the environment it is grown in. Generally, most bonsai trees can reach heights of up to 3 feet (or 1 meter). However, if they are properly cared for and given enough time and light, some twisted trunk bonsai can grow as tall as 6 feet (or 2 meters). Once a twisted trunk bonsai reaches its maximum height, they usually stop growing and remain that size or slightly smaller.
When it comes to width, twisted trunk bonsais can reach sizes up to 24 inches (or 60 centimeters) across at their widest point. This assumes that the tree has enough room and light to grow properly. If conditions are not ideal, then these bonsai may never reach this size.
The tree’s age is also essential in determining its maximum size potential. For example, a young twisted trunk bonsai will likely reach only half its maximum height at maturity. The older the tree gets, the larger it will become.
Brussel Bonsai Trees – An Overview (Bonsai Tree Category – Miniature)
- Brussel Bonsai trees are a type of miniature tree grown for ornamental purposes. The art of growing bonsai trees has been practiced in Japan and other parts of the world for centuries. While it originated in Japan, Brussel bonsai is a style that has become popular in Europe and the United States.
- Brussel bonsai trees are miniature versions of full-size trees, and they are between a few inches to several feet tall. The most popular varieties of Brussel bonsai are those with small leaves, such as juniper, maple, and willow. The branches of these trees are typically curved, and they may have a cascading or upright growth pattern.
- Brussel bonsai trees can live up to a hundred years or more when properly cared for properly. They require special care, however, including regular pruning and trimming to maintain their shape. The soil must always be kept moist, with a balanced amount of water and fertilizer. Sunlight is also important for these trees, as it helps them to grow healthy and strong.
How Big Do Brussel Bonsai Trees Get?
Brussel bonsai trees are one of the most popular types of bonsai trees and can grow between 8 to 10 inches tall. These trees require little maintenance and can thrive in moderate temperatures. Brussel bonsai trees are typically grown from cutting or pre-bonsai trees and must be pruned regularly to maintain their shape, size, and health. With proper care, these trees can endure for many years.
Homegrown Bonsai Tree Vs. Bonsai Tree Grown in the Wild
Homegrown
When it comes to homegrown bonsai trees, this variety tends to be smaller than those grown in the wild. Grown in containers and regularly pruned by their owners, these trees grow up to four feet tall and stay within a range of 12-18 inches wide. The maximum size of these trees can vary depending on the size of the container and the amount of pruning done by their owners.
Wild
On the other hand, bonsai trees grown in the wild tend to be much larger than those grown at home. These trees can grow all the way up to three 80 feet tall. Their maximum size can vary depending on the species, location, and other environmental factors.
Both homegrown and wild bonsai trees have different shapes and sizes that depend on the care they receive. Both can be trained to meet desired goals and size requirements with proper care. However, keeping a large bonsai tree at home is not recommended, as they require advanced pruning techniques that can be difficult for even experienced gardeners to master.
How Big Do Homegrown Bonsai Trees Get?
The size of a homegrown bonsai tree will depend on the species, age, and level of care that it receives. Generally speaking, bonsai trees are kept small by pruning and selective root reduction – meaning that a tree grown from seed can be trained to stay quite small for many years. However, some mature specimens, such as Japanese black pine and Japanese white pine, can reach heights of up to 10 feet or more.
The trunk diameter can also increase with age, from as small as 3 inches to up to 8 inches or more in mature specimens.
How Big Do Bonsai Trees Get In The Wild?
Bonsai has been cultivated for centuries. Generally, bonsai trees in the wild can grow to be about 3 to 4 feet tall. However, some varieties of bonsai, such as the Dwarf Jade Bonsai and the Fukien Tea Tree, can grow up to 5 feet tall if not pruned.
Other popular types of bonsai trees grown in the wild include the Chinese elm, which can reach heights of up to 80 feet, and the Japanese Maple, which can grow up to 6 feet tall.
Indoor Bonsai Trees Vs. Outdoor Bonsai Trees
When it comes to bonsai trees, there are two main types: indoor and outdoor. Both have their own distinct advantages and disadvantages when it comes to size.
Indoor bonsai trees can be kept in a container or pot, so the container size determines how big your tree can get. Generally speaking, indoor bonsai trees are smaller than their outdoor counterparts because of the limited size of the pot or container. While these trees can reach a maximum height of around 2-4 feet, they will likely remain much shorter due to pruning and shaping.
On the other hand, outdoor bonsai trees have no limit when it comes to size. These trees can grow much larger because they have more space and resources to draw from. If given the proper care and conditions, outdoor bonsai trees can reach heights of up to 15 feet or more! The key is to provide them with enough sunlight, water, and nutrition for optimal growth.
How Big Do Indoor Bonsai Trees Get?
Indoor bonsai trees are typically much smaller than their outdoor counterparts. Because they are grown in containers, they are exposed to limited amounts of soil and water, meaning they cannot reach the same size as a wild bonsai tree. Most indoor bonsai trees stay within the range of 2 to 4 feet tall, depending on the type of tree.
How Big Can Outdoor Bonsai Trees Get?
Outdoor bonsai trees can reach heights of up to 15 feet or more, depending on the type and care given. With enough sun, water, and nutrients, these trees can grow much larger than indoor bonsai trees. However, due to their size and delicate nature, outdoor bonsai trees require special attention and regular pruning and shaping to keep them in a manageable size.
What are Some Miniaturization Techniques to use on Larger Bonsai Trees?
When it comes to making a larger bonsai tree look smaller, several miniaturization techniques can be used.
Pruning
The most common technique is pruning, which helps keep foliage in check and reduces the size of the overall tree. Pruning can also help maintain the shape of your bonsai tree, by allowing you to redirect the growth of certain branches and create desired shapes. Additionally, pruning can keep your tree healthy by removing dead or diseased branches.
Root-Pruning
Another miniaturization technique is root-pruning, which involves cutting back the roots of the bonsai tree to reduce its size and promote new growth on the outer edges. This technique helps give the tree a more compact shape and size while also encouraging new buds to form.
Potting it in a Smaller Pot
Potting your bonsai tree in a smaller pot can also help reduce its size, as this will restrict the amount of soil available for the roots to take up. Additionally, it is crucial to remember that when selecting a pot for your bonsai tree, you should ensure that it has adequate drainage to prevent root rot and other issues.
Wiring
Lastly, wiring can also be used to create desired shapes within your bonsai tree. This technique involves wrapping wire around branches in order to manipulate them into certain shapes or positions. However, it is important to be careful when using this technique, as it can damage the branches if done incorrectly.
By combining these miniaturization techniques, you can achieve a smaller size for your bonsai tree while also maintaining its health and beauty. With the right combination of pruning, root-pruning, potting in a smaller pot, and wiring, you can create an aesthetically pleasing bonsai tree that is the perfect size for your home or garden.
Final Words
Bonsai trees can grow to a variety of sizes depending on the species and care they are provided. While some may only reach a few inches in height, others can reach up to four feet or more when properly trained. Given enough time, dedication, and attentive care, even the most novice bonsai enthusiast can create a stunning tree that will last for years.
All in all, bonsai trees are a source of beauty and peace that can bring joy to any home or workplace.
