colorado blue spruce no. 15

Picea pungens

Height 28" Width 32"

The trees collected by the late yamadori pioneer Jerry Morris continue to redefine “rugged” in the sphere of Elongating Species. These specimens have aged over the past decade in bonsai containers and under the care of bonsai practitioners across the country adding patina and age to the bark and deadwood. One such practitioner, Mark Mills, was an early adopter of native material. This tree came from Mark's collection and passed through the capable hands of Todd Schlafer before finding a home at Mirai. It’s had periods of ups and downs, hail damage, heat damage, and an array of other challenges. Throughout these transitions, it has always been a cherished tree of Ryan’s and a tree he knew could achieve a higher level of aesthetic beauty. These images are more than just photos of a tree. They are validation of patience, love, and belief in the process. They show the remarkable juxtaposition of the rigor this spruce endured in the environment as well as its cultivated experience. Some trees simply have a greater will to live and an indomitable spirit that draws us to them. The special interaction of humans and nature is captured in the aesthetic and essence that define the art of bonsai and reward the efforts we dedicate to these trees as practitioners. Enjoy!