Hey KK, since you ask me personally, I will try to answer your question with a couple of pictures one more time and hope I don't spark another "debate". This is a picture of my three Kotobukis, they are always the first to bud out. I must be closer to the climate they are used to. My other JBP's are just starting to put on small buds. I thought I would show you a picture of the small one. It was on ebay and didn't sell, so after the auction was over, I contacted the owner and made him an offer and he excepted. I think it will make a fine little tree.
cordially,
Harry
PS: I'm sorry, I went back and added a coke can, just for you......