There are so many wonderful Juniper bonsai that it’s hard to pick a favorite, but for many people it would have to be the Shimpaku Juniper. One name I only recently heard applied to this tree is “Smoke of the Volcano”, apparently given in recognition of the strong swirling trunk growth. The other name by which this tree is known is Sargents Juniper. Regardless what you call it, this Shimpaku Juniper with its twisting, reddish trunk and wonderful, flat, cedar-like foliage is a splendid addition to any bonsai collection.
It’s not as hardy as the more commonly known Junipers and is only rated to zone 6, which means that anywhere north of a zone 7 this outdoor bonsai will need to be protected in the winter. If like me, you’re in a zone 5 climate, this tree will need to be kept on a sunny, enclosed semi heated porch or greenhouse for the winter. Sadly, it appears that this beautiful native of Japan and the Kurile Islands has become endangered in its native habitat, thanks to overly enthusiastic and horribly misguided bonsai collectors.