USPS Bonsai Tree Forever First Class Postage Stamps

Bonsai, a Japanese term meaning “plant in a pot,” represents the art of cultivating trees and shrubs in trays or containers. The U.S. Postal Service celebrates the elegance and beauty of bonsai with the release of the Bonsai Forever stamps. Each of the five stamps showcases a different style of bonsai, capturing the diverse and captivating nature of this ancient art form.

The first stamp features a Sierra juniper in semi-cascade style, portraying a remarkable balance as the tip projects over the pot rim without extending below the base. Following this is the depiction of a trident maple in informal upright style, where the trunk gracefully bends to the left or right, exemplifying a sense of natural movement. The third stamp showcases a black pine in formal upright style, characterized by a straight and evenly tapering trunk with symmetrical branches, reflecting a sense of timeless elegance. In contrast, the fourth stamp captures an azalea plant in multiple-trunk style, presenting several trunks emerging from a single root system, symbolizing strength in unity. Finally, the fifth stamp portrays a banyan in cascade style, evoking the image of a stream flowing down a mountainside, with the tip extending below the pot’s base, conveying a sense of dynamic vitality.

These exquisite stamps reflect the dedication and meticulous care involved in the art of bonsai. While the exact origins of bonsai remain shrouded in history, it is widely believed that the practice was brought to Japan by Buddhist monks from China around a millennium ago. The tradition of bonsai has since evolved into a deeply revered art form, requiring patience, skill, and a profound understanding of horticulture.

The National Arboretum’s bonsai collection, which began in 1976, stands as a testament to the enduring cultural exchange between Japan and the United States. This collection was initiated when the Nippon Bonsai Association in Tokyo presented 53 bonsai plants to the American people as part of the U.S. bicentennial commemoration, underscoring the significance of bonsai as a cherished cultural gift.

A master bonsai artist meticulously nurtures these miniature trees, often starting from seeds, cuttings, or young stunted trees. Through careful pruning of roots and branches, shaping with wire, and occasional bark manipulation, these artists craft and “train” the bonsai to achieve their desired aesthetic effects. With proper care, including watering and repotting, these living works of art can thrive for over a century, embodying the passage of time and the enduring beauty of nature.

Art director and stamp designer Ethel Kessler collaborated with artist John D. Dawson to bring the “Bonsai” stamps to life, infusing each design with a deep appreciation for the artistry and cultural significance of bonsai.

Originally issued in 2012, the Bonsai Forever stamps continue to hold their value at the current First-Class Mail 1-ounce price, serving as a timeless tribute to the artistry and enduring legacy of bonsai cultivation.

In conclusion, the Bonsai Forever stamps honor the centuries-old tradition of bonsai cultivation, capturing the essence of this revered art form and celebrating the intricate beauty of these miniature trees. With their exquisite designs and enduring value, these stamps serve as a fitting homage to the rich cultural heritage and artistic mastery embodied by bonsai.