Entry #53
Bantigue (Pemphis Acidula)
Philippines
15cm (6")
Before
Bantigue is a tree specie that grows on rocky coast in most Tropical countries here in South East Asia. It is an excellent material for bonsai because of its natural small leaves and rugged/aged appearance even in small specimens. This is a very sought after specie here that it has its own category in every bonsai shows and is suitable to all bonsai styles.
I bought this tree in a bonsai center and was very impressed with its movement and texture despite its size. This is a very promising tree, I plan to follow its natural movement and try work in establishing its branch structure along the trunk line. No style is in my mind right now but I’m sure it will come up with its own unique character when finished. I plan to plant this in a round container or on a rock.
One Quarter Progression
The following photos shows the initial work done to the material prior to styling. In three months the tree has sprouted very well as can be seen in the photos. I started by removing the big branch that sticks upwards and flush cut all the dead twigs to promote new leaves. Also, I’ve jinned some of the branches to the right to shorten it as this side will set against a rock. Further work will follow next year, for now the remaining branches will be left to grow wild prior to wiring. I started applying organic fertilizer to help boost branch growth. I decided to plant this on a rock when finished since this is a small tree. I believe this tree will not stand out planted in a pot so by planting this to a rock it will complement the tree and give emphasis on the movement of the trunk.