Juniperus procumbens – The Japanese Creeping Juniper in Cascade Style, a Masterpiece of Nature
A 14-year-old outdoor bonsai, trained in the striking Kengai (cascade) style: the main branch descends sinuously from the pot, evoking a juniper clinging to a windswept cliff. Juniperus procumbens, known as the Japanese creeping juniper, is one of the most beloved species in the bonsai world for its dense, deep-green foliage and its natural tendency to develop flexible, dramatic branches. Each specimen is unique and one of a kind.
Important notes: The bonsai’s shape and dimensions are approximate (including the pot). The pot’s color and shape may differ from the photographs. As living plants, their appearance changes with the seasons; the images are therefore purely illustrative and do not constitute a contractual obligation.
Main characteristics
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Bonsai style: Kengai – Cascade
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Habitat: Outdoors – full sunlight, all year round
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Leaf type: Evergreen
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Family: Cupressaceae
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Growth: Slow
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Approximate dimensions (width × depth × height): 50 × 26 × 27 cm
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Pot dimensions: Under 16 cm
Interesting facts
Juniper berries play a leading role in cuisines around the world, used to flavor game, sauces, and marinades. But the best-known fact? Juniper is the main botanical ingredient in gin, the famous spirit enjoyed worldwide. The Kengai (cascade) style imitates trees growing on sheer rock faces: the main branch descends below the rim of the pot, defying gravity with elegance.
Position
It must be kept outdoors, in full sunlight all year round. To highlight the cascade style, place it on a raised surface – a low wall, pedestal, or shelf – allowing the main branch to descend freely. Not suitable for indoor living.
Watering
Abundant in summer, moderate in winter. Junipers do not tolerate waterlogging. The foliage benefits from misting with water, which promotes the plant’s well-being and keeps the foliage fresh and vigorous.
Fertilization
In spring and autumn, use the organo-mineral fertilizer Hiryo Gold or the fast-acting fertilizer Nutribonsai.
Repotting
Every 3-5 years, at the beginning of spring. After repotting, watering with Mistral Bonsai’s Vitabonsai revitalizer is recommended to speed up the plant’s recovery.
Substrate
Terrabonsai – a special bonsai substrate that meets the plant’s water and nutritional needs, promoting root development and overall vigor.
Pruning
From October to March, during the vegetative rest period.
Pinching
Throughout the growing season: pinch the tips of new shoots with your fingers to maintain a compact shape. Avoid overly drastic interventions all at once, so as not to stimulate undesirable juvenile needle-like growth.
Wiring
Can be carried out all year round, preferably from October to March. Wiring is essential for defining and maintaining the cascade style: the branches of Juniperus procumbens are naturally flexible and respond well to training with wire.
