Coprosma x kirkii ‘Variegata‘ - Coprosma Variegated
General: Coprosma is a genus of plants with over 100 different species that is found in Southeast Asia, Australia and the Pacific Islands. Coprosma ‘Variegata‘ is a hybrid that emerged from a cross between the New Zealand native Coprosma acerosa and Coprosma repens. The Coprosma ‘Variegata‘ is evergreen and has lanceolate dark leaves, which are very decorative due to the white and sometimes slightly pink edge. This has made it a popular houseplant, which is also often offered as a bonsai.
Care as a bonsai: The coprosma ‘Variegata‘ loves a bright place, but protected from direct sunlight. In summer it can also stand outside. The plant should be watered regularly, whereby the fine roots do not tolerate waterlogging. The new shoots are first allowed to grow and then a few new leaves are left when pruning. You can wire the longer shoots very well and shape them accordingly. A cascade shape can also be designed very quickly due to the strong growth. In winter, the coprosma can stand warm with sufficient lighting. Otherwise, a cool, but frost-free location is recommended. In the spring, the coprosma can be repotted as needed.
About Tanuki: A special technique for quickly obtaining expressive and very old-looking bonsai is to "marry" a plant to a dead piece of wood. This usually involves joining long grown plant material to a nicely shaped piece of wood. The plant and the wood are sometimes intricately worked and over time become fused into a single unit. The artistic connection often resembles very old specimens collected in nature (Yamadori) and often looks deceptively real. Bonsai created by this technique are called "Tanuki" in Japan. The name "Tanuki" also stands for the native "tanuki", which appears in mythology as a mythical creature. In the legends he appears as a cunning quick-change artist, who likes to lead people behind the light, but through these abilities often emerges as the hero of a story.
About the artist: All "Tanuki Art" - bonsai were designed by the artist Mulyadi. Mr. Mulyadi has been professionally involved in the design of bonsai for many years. In his home country Indonesia he creates extraordinary bonsai out of different plant material. In addition to the implementation of classical forms of design, he has developed his own style and is always looking for creative solutions. The application of the Tanuki technique is his absolute passion and he has developed special methods to achieve unique results in terms of craftsmanship and artistry. "Tanuki Art" - Bonsai are available exclusively in the Bonsaischule Enger.
