Choosing the Right Pot

A bonsai pot is far more than a container — it is an essential element contributing to the harmony and personality of the tree. Shape, color, depth and material all play important roles.

Pot Shapes

Oval

Oval bonsai pots

Very common for deciduous trees, oval pots offer softness and elegance.

Rectangular

Rectangular pots

Strong and angular, ideal for conifers and powerful trees.

Round

Round bonsai pots

Perfect for literati (Bunjin) and minimalist compositions.

Drum Pots

Drum pots

Thick and sturdy pots, excellent for strong conifers.

Pot Color

Glazed Pots

Glazed bonsai pots

Best suited for deciduous and flowering trees.

Unglazed Pots

Unglazed bonsai pots

Natural and understated, ideal for conifers.

Ideal Proportions

Bonsai pot proportions
  • Pot length ≈ 2/3 of tree height
  • Pot depth ≈ trunk diameter at base
  • Deeper pots for conifers
  • Shallower pots for deciduous trees

Pot Choice by Style

Upright Styles

Upright style pots

Oval or rectangular pots, subtle colors.

Cascade / Semi-cascade

Cascade pots

Deep and narrow pots to support downward movement.

Bunjin (Literati)

Bunjin pots

Minimalist shapes to enhance light compositions.