Page 41 - Tạp chí bonsai cây cảnh BCI 2014Q3

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with his most recent tour. He remarked in his blog many centuries. They have long been selectively bred
(http://valavanisbonsaiblog.com) that: “This is a truly for two characteristics: growth patterns that make
unique center for Satsuki azalea bonsai production, them an ideal species for bonsai and the beauty of
exhibitions, and sales. It’s the finest, largest and most their coloration. Since bonsai receive such meticu-
complete garden center I’ve had the pleasure of vis- lous care it has been possible for breeders to select
iting…” Indeed, a measure of the exuberant mood for the aesthetic dimensions of form and color rather
can be seen in the rapt attention to displayed master- than, say, robustness. At Kanuma, the satsuki are
pieces seen in Figure 1 a and b and in the acquisitive displayed in two general forms. One is in the form
energy with which festival goers select their treasures of a traditional bonsai while the other is much less
displayed in Figure 2. structured, more vertical, and is designed to accentu-
Satsuki is a Japanese term for “evergreen azalea.” ate floral coloration and patterning rather than tree
Literally, it means ‘fifth month’ referring to the fifth structure. The bonsai displayed at Kanuma reflect
month in the old Japanese lunar calendar during both the genetic selection of potentially aesthetic
which it would bloom. Satsuki azaleas bloom from characteristics and the artistry of the bonsai mas-
mid-May through July. Satsuki have been popular for ters that bring these characteristics to fruition. These

July/August/September 2014 | BCI | 39