General: The siberian elm is widespread in Central Asia and from Eastern Siberia to Northern China. In Asia it is most common of all other elm species. The elm is very changeable in shape. In poor conditions it grows weakly and stays small or, under favorable conditions, as a large tree with a height of up to 30 meters. The bark becomes coarser and more deeply fissured with age than other elm species.
Care as a bonsai: As a bonsai, the siberian elm develops small leaves and fine branches. It can also be used to create very small bonsai shapes. The elm is very uncomplicated to take care of, as it neither makes great demands on the location nor is it sensitive to short-term care errors. It can be designed all year round. The location should of course be outdoors in summer. Although the species is considered drought-resistant, the soil should be watered regularly. It is fertilized from May to October. In winter, a light hibernation protection is sufficient.
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.
