


Native to East Asia, Juniperus chinensis ‘Itoigawa’ is one of the most sought-after juniper varieties for bonsai due to its fine, compact, bright green foliage. Its natural branching pattern lends itself to elegant, flowing silhouettes and expressive character. Highly resilient, it is especially well suited to traditional bonsai styles, including trees that feature deadwood elements.
Sunlight: Prefers full sun. Direct light encourages dense, healthy foliage.
Watering: Keep the soil slightly moist but never waterlogged. Allow the top layer to dry between waterings. While drought-tolerant, it still requires consistent watering in bonsai form.
Humidity: Not demanding regarding humidity. It adapts well to dry air; a humidity tray is only necessary in very dry environments.
Pruning: Pruning is key to maintaining shape and fine ramification. Do not pinch by hand — always use scissors to remove excess growth. Wiring can be done year-round, but check regularly to prevent scarring.
Fertilization: Fertilize during spring and summer with a mild, balanced fertilizer. Reduce or stop feeding by late summer to allow new growth to harden.
Repotting: Repot every 2–3 years in early spring, using a well-draining conifer bonsai substrate.
Flowering and Fruiting: Produces small, inconspicuous cones with no ornamental value. The main visual appeal lies in its foliage texture and sculptural structure.
Data sheet