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All the Fantastic Things About Bonsai Figurines

February 25, 2023

Bonsai figurines can make or break the overall appearance of your bonsai tree. That’s why knowing how to display it and which design to choose is vital. 

If you want to add more life to your bonsai garden…

Continue reading to discover:

  • Traditional and contemporary bonsai tree figurine designs.
  • 5 great benefits of putting figurines on your bonsai tree.
  • How bonsai tree figurines are displayed on potted miniature trees.
  • And much, much more…

5 Great Benefits of Displaying Bonsai Figurines on a Bonsai Tree

Bonsai figures are more than just miniature plant decorations. These tiny displays add value and character to any bonsai tree if used properly.

Suppose you can’t decide yet whether to add a figurine to your bonsai tree; here are a few advantages of using it:

1. It personalizes your experience

Many bonsai artists take bonsai art as a form of self-expression. Growing and training a bonsai tree for decades allows them to express and develop their artistic skills.

The tree itself can portray the personality of a bonsai grower. However, displaying miniature figures on it can highlight more the character and emotions of a person.

2. It adds a bit more character to your tree

Adding figurines that match the characteristics of your bonsai—particularly color and texture—helps the tree’s essence to become more distinguishable and its features more prominent.

3. It catches the attention of the viewers

Regardless of what sort of figurine you put, these tiny decors catch the viewers’ attention in your garden. It leaves a remarkable impression on them, which can add value to the tree.

4. It increases the selling price of the bonsai tree

These can also help increase the price value of your bonsai plant not only because traditional ceramic figurines cost money but also because adding figurines can help create a complete, cohesive look.

5. It helps create a theme for your bonsai garden or patio

Figurines also make bonsai art more interesting by helping artists create a themed bonsai collection. This is especially true today as contemporary designs become more popular and accessible to many.

Popular Styles and Designs of Bonsai Tree Figurines

There are tons of different figurine designs and styles in the market.

To help stream down your options, here are some of the most popular and classic designs of bonsai tree figurines:

Bonsai Pot with Attached Figurine

Some bonsai figures are attached to handmade and customized bonsai pots and slabs. These are among the popular choices of artists who like to create bonsai forests.

Here’s an example of a bonsai slab with a personalized miniature house figurine:

bonsai pot with an attached figurine

Stand-alone Display Figurine

Another style is the stand-alone miniature displays usually placed on top of the surface soil next to the trunk.

There are numerous figurine designs in the market today, but here are some of the popular and classic ones that most bonsai artists use: 

1. People

People figurines, either sitting or working, are a classic staple to many decade-old bonsai trees. While there are many varieties you can find, fishing or boating men are some of the popular pieces.

Here’s an example of a classic figurine of a man rowing a bamboo raft:

traditional bonsai figurine

2. Religious Figures

Buddhism is a huge part of East Asian religions, including Japan. Hence, the use of Buddha figurines on bonsai displays is prevalent.

Here’s an example of a young bonsai tree with a Buddha figurine on its pot:

buddha figurine on a bonsai plant

3. Traditional Japanese Temple & Garden Design Elements

Aside from the Buddha statues, some Japanese temple and garden design elements—such as pagoda lanterns—are also used as traditional bonsai tee figurines.

Here’s an example of a stone lantern figurine:

traditional bonsai pagoda lantern figurine

4. Mystical Figures

As the art form of bonsai continues to spread worldwide, modern and contemporary bonsai tree figurines—such as mystical figures—also start to become popular. Many have come to love these designs as they add a more unique and playful touch to their bonsai trees.

Here’s an example of a dwarf figurine:

contemporary dwarf bonsai figurine

5. Animals

Another contemporary figurine design that has become popular is animal figures, particularly small wild or forest animals like a hedgehog.

Here’s an example of a hedgehog bonsai figurine:

contemporary animal plant figurine

Conclusion

Bonsai figurines are a cute and fun addition to bonsai trees. Not only do they help attract viewers, but they also help make the tree look more put-together.

Although matching your figurines to your bonsai tree to create a cohesive look is encouraged, adding designs that speak to you is the best way to style your tree. That’s because, more than anything, bonsai tree figurines are meant to reflect the artist’s personality.

Learn how to style and display your bonsai trees aesthetically and strategically by visiting www.hookedonbonsai.com.

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