Imported Chinese Elm Bonsai with Exposed Root Character
This imported Chinese Elm has a lot of character packed into a smaller tree.
It was hard-pruned before photography so you can really see what you are getting: the trunk movement, branch placement, and exposed root structure. It is not hiding behind a heavy canopy. The framework is visible, which makes this a fun tree for someone who wants to continue shaping and developing it over time.
The trunk has a nice twist as it rises from the base, with branches placed along the upper section of the tree. The foliage is lighter right now because of the recent pruning, but Chinese Elms respond very well to trimming and should push new growth as it settles back in.
The exposed roots are the standout feature. Several roots lift out of the soil and create an open, dramatic base before anchoring back into the pot. It gives the tree a more unusual look and makes the lower trunk much more interesting than a typical Chinese Elm.
This tree is planted in an 8" cream glazed Yixing ceramic pot. The soft glaze color keeps the overall presentation clean and simple, while letting the exposed roots and trunk movement do the work.
Why We Like This Tree
- The exposed roots: The raised roots give the base a lot of character and make the tree more visually interesting.
- The trunk movement: The trunk has a natural twist and curve instead of a straight, predictable shape.
- The visible branch structure: It was hard-pruned so the framework is easy to see and continue developing.
- The compact size: At 16" tall, this is a manageable Chinese Elm with a lot of personality.
- The pot: The cream glazed Yixing pot gives the tree a clean, finished look.
Tree Details
- Species: Chinese Elm
- Origin: Imported
- Style: Informal bonsai with exposed root character
- Height: 16" from table to apex
- Spread: 9"
- Pot: 8" glazed Yixing ceramic pot
- Recent Work: Hard-pruned before photography to show the branching
- Ships From: Our Florida nursery
Care Notes
Chinese Elm is a strong and forgiving bonsai species. It likes bright light and should be watered when the soil begins to dry slightly. Do not let the tree completely dry out.
In warm climates, Chinese Elm can be grown outdoors most or all of the year. In colder areas, it should be protected from freezing temperatures and overwintered appropriately. With regular pruning, this tree should continue to fill back in and develop denser branching over time.
Shipping Information
This imported Chinese Elm ships from our Florida nursery. We carefully pack each bonsai to help protect the pot, trunk, branches, foliage, and exposed root structure during transit.
Please note: This is the exact tree shown in the photos.
Please Note
- All trees are sold as-is.
- All sales are final – no refunds, returns, or exchanges.
- Once the tree leaves our nursery, care is your responsibility.
- Have questions? Just reach out—we’re happy to help.
Learning Resources and Bonsai Tree Care Guides:
Bonsai trees are not all the same - and neither is their care. Read our specific care sheets for individual bonsai species. Read the Bonsai Care Guides
Shipping Bonsai Trees:
Bonsai trees are generally shipped on Mondays & Tuesdays to avoid having them stay in the boxes for any extra time over the weekends.
Shipping Non-Tree Items
All non-bonsai items such as bonsai pots and bonsai supplies are shipped within 48 hours of receiving payment. Most orders are shipped either the same day or the next day, depending on the time of day the order is received.
Important Guidelines:
** We cannot ship to a FPO, APO, P.O. Box or to locations in Alaska, Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, Hawaii or anywhere internationally.
** All Bonsai are shipped direct from the nursery and may ship separately from other items purchased via the Bonsai Outlet.
** If extreme weather is expected, we may delay shipping your Bonsai tree to guarantee a healthy arrival; in such a case we will contact you. We are shipping living trees and must be conscious of the temperature conditions to the delivery address, as well as, while in transit. That said, we reserve the right to hold the tree(s) to guarantee a healthy delivery. We will Hold Your Tree Until It is Safe to Ship.
