Bonsai 101 Series: Formal Upright Style

Glenn Hilton, president of the Bonsai Society of Miami, co-owner of Miami Bonsai Specialist, and horticulture specialist presents BONSAI: The art of growing and keeping miniature trees.

This is part of a series of programs to learn about the ancient art of bonsai. Glenn will teach you the history, guidelines, and techniques of bonsai and how to start your own bonsai tree. We recommend you sign up for upcoming programs—see below—to learn about different styles of bonsai and get additional hands-on experience working on trees.

February: Bald cypress | Formal upright style

In the formal upright style, the trunk of the tree is absolutely straight rising vertically out of the ground from a radial root system. The trunk should then taper very gradually from the base all the way up the tree.

2026 classes:

March: "Tiger Bark" ficus/Ficus retusa | Broom style

April: Black olive | Windswept style