4ft Ilex Crenata Cloud Tree

Bring the ancient Japanese art of tree pruning to life with this beautiful Ilex crenata cloud tree.

Enjoy continuing to form its unique character and structure with the specialist ties (included with the plant) while learning the deeply satisfying and meditative ancient japanese art of Niwaki. The metal support and a set of elastic ties provided allows you to gently pressure the branches into your intended shape.

Niwaki trees are often used in Japan to create the structure and layout of a garden, carefully pruned and manipulated to establish an atmosphere of peace and tranquility. The trees have developed great cultural and spiritual significance, and Niwaki remains a popular national hobby to this day. Niwaki trees can be manipulated in many different ways; trees can be etched to mimic those struck by lightning with grizzly twisted branches, or pruned to time-honoured perfection for a charmingly well-kept look.

Features

• Striking appearance - beautiful clouds bring classic oriental feel to any space it inhabits
• Entry level cloud pruning - ideal tree to practise pruning techniques
• Metal support - apply gentle pressure on branches to train your tree into shape
• Pre-potted - the tree comes in its own 15L pot to ensure you start on the right foot
• Ilex Crenata 'Kinme' - very hardy and perfect for outdoor use

Specifications

• Height:Approx 110-130cm
• Pot size: 12L

Take a look at our other ornamental plants:

Ornamental Plants
from£7.99

Planting and pruning advice

For the best results, this tree must be kept in either the pot it arrives in, or transferred to a similar ornamental pot. If you intend to repot the tree, the new planter should be no more than 25% larger than the original pot.

The tree will require pruning up to four times a year to maintain its shape. Cut back the foliage to create a flat surface on the clouds; ensure you cut from underneath the clouds as well as from the top to maintain a delicate, thin shape.

Metal support

This bonsai tree comes with a metal support and a set of elastic ties, which allow you to apply gentle, consistent pressure to the branches. This trains your tree into shape, allowing you to manipulate the branches into your desired shape.

At its core, Niwaki is an expressive art; a gardener reflected in their foliage, if you will. It’s a highly appealing concept that has not only woven itself into the fabric of Japanese culture, but has been adopted across Europe as a symbol of elegance. More...

What is niwaki?

If you're interested in the Japanese art of niwaki, the Primrose Bloggers have got you covered. Enjoy our blog "Niwaki: The Art of Tree Trimming" to learn more about this exciting, expressive art form.