What makes a bonsai tree distinct from ordinary houseplants is its shape. When you grow a bonsai, it’s not just another plant. Many people consider it to be an art, and spend much time sculpting their tree. Bonsai trees can be shaped into almost any form that you desire. Yet there are a few silhouettes that are more commonly found in bonsai shaping. Following are some of the favorite styles.

Literati: The most common shape of bonsai tree is the literati style, and this is what most people visualize when they think of a bonsai. The literati shape consists of a bare trunk and hardly any branches. The branches of this style are all positioned near the top. The lower part of the trunk, which is bare, is usually elegantly twisted.

Formal and Informal Upright: Upright styles, both formal and informal, are another familiar approach to bonsai shaping. Trees in these forms are guided into an erect, upright position with a tapered trunk. The informal style features the well-known curves and bends which distinguish it from the formal shape.

Slanting: There are similarities between the slanting style and the formal upright bonsai in regards to the straight trunk. The difference lies in the fact that the trunk angles away from the base, either to the left or the right.

Forest: An advanced form of bonsai gardening is the forest style, which consists of artistically grouping several bonsais in one container. The trees are of varying heights, which gives the perception of depth. It is typical for three or more trees to be used in the forest style, usually an odd number. However, four trees are never used in one pot, as the number four has implications in Japan.

Cascade: This is one of the most distinctive shapes among bonsai plants. The cascade style imitates the trees that grow on mountains or over the water, and is very beautiful. The tree top gently flows to the side and extends to the bottom of the pot or slightly lower.

Although these shapes are the most frequently used for styling a bonsai tree, you may discover a new fashion that you prefer. However, it is always advised to begin with a common style when you first attempt to shape a bonsai tree. Once you have mastered this, then you can begin to add your very own personal touches to lend uniqueness to the tree. Remember, it’s an art, not just a plant.