Growing bonsai from seed is a fascinating adventure: it requires patience and consistency, but above all, it rewards with deep satisfaction. If you're just starting out or looking to expand your collection, certain trees are particularly well-suited to this exercise.
At Ikigai Box , we've selected three tried-and-tested species: Black Locust , Red Maple , and Rocky Pine . In this article, discover why these trees are ideal for beginners, how to grow them, and what bonsai shapes they can take.
1. The Black Locust: from seed to tree in 6 months
Black Locust , or black locust, is a fast-growing and resilient tree. It's one of the most impressive species you can grow from seed: in just 6 months , you'll already have a sturdy little tree in your hands. Don't believe us? Check out the article we wrote for its 5-month anniversary here !
Why is it perfect for beginners?
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No stratification required : It germinates quickly, between one and four weeks after a 24-hour soak.
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Fast growing : Its root system develops quickly, making it a good candidate for early pruning and shaping.
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Resistance : It tolerates temperature variations well and can be grown outdoors as well as indoors (near a bright window or under a grow lamp )
What bonsai shapes are possible?
The Black Locust adapts well to several styles:
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The formal straight style (chokkan), thanks to its solid trunk.
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The lettered style (bunjin), if you let its trunk lengthen before pruning.
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And even the cascade style (kengai), by pruning the roots and tilting the shoot.
Find the different forms of Bonsai here !
Did you know that Black Locust wood is so resistant to the elements that it is often used to make boats?
2. The Red Maple: majestic, local… and rewarding
The Red Maple is an iconic North American species. Our seeds come directly from Quebec, making it a 100% local bonsai, and therefore perfectly suited to our climate.
Why is it perfect for enthusiasts?
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Stratification required : a short cold exposure (4 to 8 weeks) is required, but then...
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Very high germination rate : once stratified, the seed germinates quickly.
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Remarkable aesthetics : its leaves take on flamboyant red hues in autumn, even as bonsai.
Want to learn more about layering? Here's our guide !
Please note that it needs more space in its early years to develop well-formed leaves. It prefers outdoor cultivation especially during spring and summer .
What bonsai shapes are possible?
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Broom style (hokidachi), ideal for its dense branching.
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Forest style (yose-ue), by planting several shoots.
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Semi-cascade style (han-kengai) for a more dynamic effect.
Did you know that red maple leaves are edible and were used by First Nations in certain traditional remedies?
3. The Rocky Pine: robust, fast and uncomplicated
The Rocky Mountain Bristlecone Pine , which we simply call Rocky Pine , is an amazing conifer. It is one of the oldest pine trees in the world, with some specimens reaching 5,000 years old!
Why is it an excellent choice?
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Fast germination : in two weeks you will see your first shoots, without stratification necessary.
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Good adaptation : it tolerates dry environments well and is resistant to temperature variations.
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Original foliage : its short, twisted needles give an old-fashioned and poetic appearance.
Indoors or outdoors?
It can be grown indoors, provided it has plenty of natural light or a grow light . It does, however, prefer the outdoors for optimal growth.
What bonsai shapes are possible?
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Sloping style (shakan), very natural with its naturally irregular bearing.
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Wind in the branches style (fukinagashi), which evokes his life in the mountains exposed to the wind.
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Raft style (ikadabuki), laying down a trunk to make several shoots emerge.
Three seeds, one passion, a thousand possibilities
Growing a bonsai from seed is much more than just a gardening project. It's an invitation to slow down, observe nature's evolution, and cultivate patience and wonder.
Whether you are drawn to the swift vigor of Black Locust, the autumnal elegance of Red Maple, or the exceptional resilience of Rocky Pine, each of these trees offers a different path to your ikigai—the peaceful passion that gives meaning to your days.
💡 What if you started today?
Our Bonsai Box is designed for beginners and enthusiasts alike. It contains everything you need to germinate two of these exceptional species, with detailed step-by-step instructions, biodegradable pots, suitable potting soil, and even customizable labels.
➡️ Discover the Bonsai Box and treat yourself to a moment of calm and lasting beauty:
Visit the product page here
And above all, remember: your tree won't grow overnight. But with a little care, curiosity, and patience, it can be with you for decades.
