zuisho 1

Zuisho is a cultivar of Japanese five needle pine which originated as an unusual seedling about 1935. It was noticed in 1947 by Mr. Saichi Suzuki. In a relatively short time, it has become a much desired subject for bonsai. It has wonderfully short green needles, is very hardy, buds back nicely, and can be propagated by cuttings and air layers to preserve its genetic uniqueness. Zuisho is very flexible and is agreeable to all bonsai styles. Unfortunately, Zuisho is rare in the US. I have been propagating and growing Zuisho since 1986 with good success. The take rate with cuttings is low, often less than 10%. Airlayers are labor intensive but have a success rate of better than 75% most years. Clones of both types grow vigourously once the roots are established (about four years for cuttings, much sooner for airlayers), even in pots. Approach grafts are easy to do so a branch or two can be put at critical locations on larger plants. Spring application of a micronutrient supplement is highly recommended, probably necessary with typical soilless mixes used in North America.

Kokufu prize winning zuisho

Zuisho air layers (10" pots) $100-250 by size and quality. Now rarely available.

Partially trained Zuisho air layer. Sold out and no longer in production. I'm too old!

3 year Zuisho cuttings $40-80 each by size
Sold by allocated reservations. Reservation requests are by email only starting on August 1 each year. First come, first served. Very limited quantities. Usually sold out quickly. September shipping

3 year Zuisho cuttings