Burning bush can be GREAT. But the proportions need to be just right. The variety you bought and the ones sold at most Lowe’s have leaves that do not reduce very much at all. A thicker trunk is a must for believability. However, with the proper scale they can be believable and ramify very well, but slowly. You’ll typicall only get 1 new flush of growth after cut back per year, sometimes 2. Branches, even tender ones, wire well. Scars heal well and again, with the right proportions the bark has a great look to it in relation to the entire image. This tree can still be a bonsai if you plant it and dig it up after 5 years, or go back to Lowe’s and find another much thicker one if you can, otherwise this one will never be fully convincing. Keep in mind though I have found several burning bush with trunk size that warrant Shohin size trees. I just came home with one from Lowe’s that is about 1 3/4” at the base before root spread for $12. It’ll never be a show stopper but should make a great broom/informal broom style. I’ll max out the height at about 12”, which is pushing it in regards to proportions but will still be a fun tree. Keep on the hunt for more, cause in my opinion the red color in fall is worth it. ?? Good luck!
I picked up a couple of smaller ones. Several people on here have threads that suggest it's doable, but a slow process.
