Aerial roots grow faster than the trunk. A fact to keep in mind as you design and change your bonsai over time. I am not sure why the aerials grow faster but it seems that they do.
2016, aerials are much larger
2012, aerials are pretty small at the start
An uncommon style is the bunjin or literati style. It is a style that emphasizes trunk line above all the other design elements.
It is not one of the most easily appreciated styles but one that is unique and unusual.
Here is one of my Ficus ‘Mexicana’ in its first potting.
Do you like it?
Ficus in the bunjin style, side one
Ficus in the bunion style, side two
The scientific name for this plant is unknown. I am calling it Ficus ‘Mexicana’ since the plant originated in Mexico.
Mexican has many similarities to the Willow Leaf fig, Ficus salicaria, but it has much larger leaves. The plant responds very well to bonsai culture and should be a welcome addition to the bonsai world.
Ficus ‘Mexicana’ given to me in 2008
Same tree in 2009
In full leaf, 2015