Page 40 - BCI Bonsai & Stone Appreciation Q1 2025

Using
newspapers
to cover areas
needing
removal allows
for a clearer
understanding
of future
feasibility!
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Using newspapers to cover areas needing removal
allows for a clearer understanding of future feasibility!
Overview of Taiwan Juniper
Undeniably, Taiwan juniper has become one of
Taiwan’s most representative and dazzling bonsai
species. After years of ups and downs, it has recently
become the focal point for most enthusiasts in their
bonsai learning journey.
There are two main theories regarding the origin of
Taiwan juniper. The first suggests that it was introduced
from southern Japan, specifically Kyushu, during
the Japanese colonial period when it was planted in
Yangmingshan. The second theory proposes that early
settlers brought it from Fujian, China.
The earliest cultivation of Taiwan juniper occurred
in areas such as Taipei and Changhua, where it was
primarily used as cut flower material and in a few
gardens. About 60 years ago, Mr. Ke Wan-fa 柯萬發
from Changhua introduced Junipers into the bonsai
community. During a time when ficus were pre-
dominant, he dedicated his life to promoting juniper,
earning him the title of “Father of Juniper.”
Approximately 60 years ago, systematic production
of Taiwan’s juniper began. The most significant
influences on its quality in later generations can be
attributed to Wu San-lang 吳三郎 from Yangmingshan
and Huang Tian-her 黃天鶴 from Tianwei. Notably,
the juniper materials left behind by Wu San-lang
underwent a transformation, winning numerous
awards and becoming a guarantee of success at bonsai
exhibitions.
Over the years, Taiwan juniper has spread around
every county of Taiwan, fostering the emergence of
many master craftsmen. One of the most talented
artists, Chen Jian Liang 陳建良, elevated Juniper to
a higher stature. Almost every bonsai nursery boasts
impressive works, and there are countless professional
juniper artisans across generations.
26 2023/07/13
After a week of gradual work, a newer shape has
emerged! However, this is merely a phase of the process,
and as age and wisdom accumulate, I believe it will
become even more mature and diverse!
38 | BCI | January/February/March 2025