General: This plant is probably a variety of the Chinese elm (Ulmus parvifolia). In our company, however, it has been produced as a Japanese elm for many years, as it differs significantly from the houseplant in various properties. It is extremely hardy, and the leaves are not evergreen, but even turn bright yellow in autumn and then fall off completely. In addition, this plant forms an extreme cork bark and has knotty thickenings on the shoots. The leaf is confusingly similar to the Chinese elm.
Care as a bonsai: The Japanese elm is simply ideal for bonsai design. Due to their fine branches and their small leaves, very authentic looking miniature trees can be raised. It is also often recommended for beginners, as it is very easy to cut and robust. Short-term care errors are tolerated and the shape can be maintained by simply cutting back the annual shoots. The branches can also be wired very well and many design forms are possible. Repotting does not cause any problems thanks to their good root growth. Japanese elms are very hardy and protection from drying winds 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.
