Kengai Style: The Cascade Bonsai
Definition and Origins
The Kengai style, or "cascade style," is a form of bonsai that imitates natural trees growing on steep slopes or cliffs, where branches and the trunk fall in a cascade due to gravity and environmental conditions. This style evokes the beauty and grace of trees struggling to survive in extreme conditions.
Distinctive Characteristics
- Cascading Trunk and Branches: The tree's trunk leans markedly downward, often beyond the edge of the pot, with branches following the same descending trajectory.
- Visual Balance: Despite its inclined form, the tree must maintain visual balance, with a sturdy trunk and well-distributed branches that extend horizontally and vertically.
- Deep Pot and Stability: The Kengai style is often planted in deep pots to allow for the natural fall of the trunk and branches while maintaining the balance and stability of the whole.
- Densely Branched Foliage: The cascading branches bear dense foliage, which contributes to the overall aesthetic of the tree and enhances the illusion of a waterfall or cascade.
- Dramatic and Graceful Appearance: The Kengai style is known for its dramatic and graceful appearance, evoking the challenges and resilience of nature.
Species Selection
Flexible species that are resistant to difficult conditions are preferred for the Kengai style. Junipers, pines, and certain hardwood species like maples are often used in this style.
Maintenance and Cultivation Techniques
- Pruning and Pinching: Pruning is crucial to maintain the cascade shape and to encourage branching. Pinching helps to control growth and densify the foliage.
- Wiring: Wiring is often used to direct the trunk and branches into the desired cascade form.
- Repotting and Substrate: Regular repotting with a well-draining substrate is necessary to maintain the tree's health.
Conclusion
The Kengai style is a poetic and artistic representation of strength and perseverance in the natural world. These cascading bonsais offer a visual interpretation of beauty that can emerge in difficult conditions, symbolizing the balance between grace and survival.
