For Mother’s Day, Get Her a Japanese Hornbeam
One of the most popular outdoor bonsai trees for Mother’s Day or any gift-giving holiday is the Japanese Hornbeam, or the carpinus japonica. It’s a wonderful outdoor bonsai that is one of the first to open up in the spring. When it does, this little tree grows small little fruits. These little fruits have a hint of red about them, and they will actually last all year around. In the winter, however, they change color, becoming a light brown. It also features some very interesting oval shaped leaves that stay bright green in the spring and summer, then turn a clear yellow color in the fall. They stay on the tree for quite some time, then suddenly fall off.
Don’t forget to take good care of your Japanese Hornbeam. It needs to be in indirect sunlight, and even though it can handle the outdoor temperatures, it will need some shelter from storms, heavy rains, and especially from any snow. In fact, if you get snow, it may be too cold to grow the Japanese Hornbeam outdoors. If you do, you will want to be sure it is sheltered. Many prefer to grow their bonsai in small courtyards or balconies where there is protection from the wind, sun, and elements.