Imported Exposed Root Chinese Elm Bonsai with Twisting Trunk
This imported Chinese Elm has a really interesting exposed root base and a trunk line with plenty of movement.
The tree was pruned for photography, so the branch structure is easy to see. It is not hidden behind a heavy canopy. You can clearly see the trunk movement, the placement of the branches, and the exposed root character at the base. As it grows back in, this tree should give the next owner a lot to work with.
The roots are the standout feature. They rise above the soil, twist around one another, and create a dramatic exposed root base before anchoring into the pot. This gives the tree a much more unique look than a standard Chinese Elm and adds a lot of character right at the soil line.
The trunk continues upward with a natural curve and twist, carrying the movement from the root base into the upper branching. The foliage is lighter right now from pruning, but Chinese Elms respond well to trimming and should push new growth with proper care.
It is planted in a 9" blue glazed Yixing ceramic pot. The blue glaze gives the tree a clean, finished presentation and works nicely with the pale trunk, exposed roots, and small green leaves.
Why We Like This Tree
- The exposed roots: The roots twist above the soil and give the base a lot of character.
- The trunk movement: The curved trunk carries the movement from the exposed roots into the upper tree.
- The visible branch structure: It was pruned for photography, so you can clearly see the framework.
- The future potential: As it fills back in, there are plenty of branches to continue refining.
- The pot: The blue glazed Yixing ceramic pot gives the tree a polished, attractive look.
Tree Details
- Species: Chinese Elm
- Origin: Imported
- Style: Exposed root bonsai with twisting trunk movement
- Height: 17" from table to apex
- Spread: 12"
- Pot: 9" glazed Yixing ceramic pot
- Recent Work: Pruned for photography
- 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.