Bonsai sizes

[Cable]

I have a question about bonsai sizes. I do have an ulterior motive but don't want to get into it. lol.

I've seen this chart a few times:

Japanese classification​	Required hands to move bonsai​	Approximate size​
Imperial	Eight-handed bonsai	60 to 80 inches
Hachi-uye	Six-handed bonsai	40 to 60 inches
Dai or Omono	Four-handed bonsai	30 to 48 inches
.
Chiu or Chumono	Two-handed bonsai	16 to 36 inches
Katade-mochi	One-handed bonsai	10 to 18 inches
.
Komono	One-handed bonsai	6 to 10 inches
Mame	One-handed bonsai	5 to 8 inches
Shito or Keshitsubo	Fingertip bonsai	Under 2 inches

Shito, Mame and Komono are also known as SHOHIN
​

​

I've also seen stuff that seems to contradict it, and I've seen shohin listed as a distinct size rather than a combination of the three as stated.

Is there a definitive guide or is it all kinda subjective? And if shohin really is a valid name for the three smaller sizes then is there one for the other two grouped together?

What I'm looking for to do a project of mine is a scale of the most commonly used size descriptions. Basically a "small", "medium", "large", "extra large" kind of thing. If that even is a thing.

 

[Leo in N E Illinois]

In Japan, there is a governing Bonsai trade association, that sets the rules for all major shows in Japan. They also issue credentials to bonsai professionals. They set the rules.

There is no governing authority in the USA. The only rules that count are the "Show Rules" set out by the chairperson in charge of what ever exhibition or show you happen to want to exhibit your tree at. And the "rules" are arbitrary, and can be changed at any time by any show chairman.

For example, some will allow trees up to 25 cm (10 inches) in height to be entered as shohin. Others will draw the line for Shohin at a strict 10.0 cm (8 inches)

Also, for the shows I have attended, there tends to be just 2 size categories, Shohin, for the small bonsai and larger than shohin for the rest. The chart you are referring to I have not seen used in a formal show in North America. Now granted, I have only attended shows in the Midwest USA. I have not attended shows elsewhere, yet.

But because there is no single ruling body to govern issues of size in bonsai, there are no hard and fast rules. If I were you I would consult William Valavanis, and or the American Bonsai Society. What ever size rankings they use will likely be the standard picked up by various bonsai show chairmen across the country. But be aware, compliance is voluntary. The rules only count for the actual show the rules were written for.

 

[Cable]

@Leo in N E Illinois this is great information! And also way beyond what I'm doing. lol. I just wanted to know if there were sizes most bonsai people would agree with because I'm making up some t-shirts.

Maybe I'll go with mame, shohin, chumono, omono.

 

[AlainK]

Sizes ?...

Hu hu... !!!

 

[Carol 83]

I'm making up some t-shirts.

I think I heard that mentioned around here a long time ago....

 

[Smoke]

For example, some will allow trees up to 25 cm (10 inches) in height to be entered as shohin. Others will draw the line for Shohin at a strict 10.0 cm (8 inches)

If 10 inches is 25 cm how is 8 inches 10cm?

The "All Shohin" governing body says 21cm max, unless Bunjin, but in appropriate shohin pot.

and 10 inches is 26cm.
and 8 inches is 21cm

 

[Cable]

I think I heard that mentioned around here a long time ago....

 

[Cable]

 

[Carol 83]

Some time back @Bonsai Nut alluded to having B-nut t-shirts made. But stuff happens, no biggy. We appreciate all you do here Mr. Head Nut.

 

[Cable]

ah

 

[Leo in N E Illinois]

If 10 inches is 25 cm how is 8 inches 10cm?

The "All Shohin" governing body says 21cm max, unless Bunjin, but in appropriate shohin pot.

and 10 inches is 26cm.
and 8 inches is 21cm

One of the early signs of my progressing dementia is my in-ability to do simple math in my head. Partly joking, maybe not entirely a joke. The old brain has been playing tricks on me.