Australian Plants as Bonsai 2026 Exhibition "The secret of looking old"

Australian Plants are becoming popular as bonsai as artists discover the interesting shapes, colours and textures available.

The Canberra Bonsai Society and the Australian National Botanic Gardens are pleased to present Australian Plants as Bonsai: ‘The secret to looking old'. An exhibition of over 40 bonsai of Australian plants by the Canberra Bonsai Society members. Held in the Crosbie Morrison Building, ANBG. The exhibition is open 9.30am to 4pm Saturday 21 and Sunday 22 February.

A mature looking tree is the aim of bonsai. There are tips and techniques to get a tree to looker older than its age. Some shortcuts include starting with mature nursery stock or ‘growing on’ a tree for a few years in the ground. There are techniques to developing a wide trunk, creating dead branches or adding scars which all give the tree the appearance of age. Many bonsai are passed from artist to artist over time as the trees may live for decades. These tips and techniques will be explained at the exhibition and during the demonstrations at 11 am and 2 pm.

You don’t need to start the hobby of Bonsai at a young age, but it helps. If you are approaching retirement, there are shortcuts. The Canberra Bonsai Society can help you learn how to care for these amazing small trees. More information cbs.org.au.

Adults: $5:00

Concessions:$3:00

Accompanied Chuldren under 12 Free