The Inspiration for Tasmanian Plants as Bonsai

Moving south, to the island state of Tasmania over 30 years ago, I was happy to leave the Australian summer heat behind. Tasmania is a green jewel by comparison, with the relentless roaring 40's (our prevailing westerly winds) dropping regular downpours on the remote west coast and adjacent mountain ranges. By comparison, the east coast and midlands, can be quite dry.

The state's capital, Hobart, in the south east, has an average summer maximum temperature in the low 20's (degrees Celsius), which suits me just fine!

Due to these weather variances, and the rugged terrain, including alpine heights and extensive coastal areas, Tasmanian is home to a rich source of interesting plant life, much of it linked to mainland Australia, but many plants also with strong links to the ancient southern landmass of Gondwana. Many species are endemic to the state, and many are well suited to bonsai. Most of the island's flora has small leaves, fruit and flowers, which are well scaled for bonsai.

Having commenced and managed a Tasmanian native plant nursery near Hobart since 1990, once I became interested in bonsai in 1995, it was inevitable that I should attempt the challenge by using the Tasmanian flora! And, of course, I went from being interested, to being fascinated!

So after 13 years of exploring the bonsai potential of the island's flora (mostly successfully), I found myself in the happy situation of being able to open a bonsai nursery dedicated to the study and craftsmanship of creating native Tasmanian bonsai.

At ISLAND BONSAI we are concentrating on designing Tasmanian bonsai to represent how these species appear in the wild. These works will be truly Tasmanian. As well we enjoy creating some bonsai following Japanese styles, some are more akin to the Chinese penjing, and some more whimsical pieces where we follow where the plant takes us! There are at least 50 species and varieties of Tasmanian plants that are eminently suited to bonsai.

The use of Australian (including Tasmanian) plants as bonsai, is still in the early stages of exploration and development, and it is very exciting and rewarding to be part of this process. There is much to learn and enjoy.

Will Fletcher, Sept 2008.