AFRICAN TULIP
In Hawaii, the African Tulip is a good example of a SINGLE APEX - ARCH BRANCH structure that is similar to the "single apex-tier branch" that serves as the basic structure of codified Japanese bonsai. Except for having "arch branches," many of the guidelines are similar. Most of the photos of the following trees were taken in Hilo Bayfront, the tsunami inundation greenbelt that provides picnicing and recreational areas for the community.
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Photo #1: Except for the arch branches, this tree could follow the basic Japanese single apex-tier branch Formal Upright Style. The lowest branch comes off the trunk between 1/4 and 1/3 of the height of the tree and faces to the right front. The second branch is to the back and the third branch is to the left front. Branches are interestingly spaced and become closer as they get higher. The lower branches are longer and there is an overall triangular shape. The tree is 50% higher than it is wide. |
 Photo 2: African Tulips have a tendency to "water-spout" vertical growth that develop into trunk-like shapes. While common in nature, it's an undesirable bonsai design. Imagine covering the lower part of the tree (or scroll up) to create an imaginary ground level where the trunk forks and forms two major trunks. You'd then have a nice model for a two-trunked tree. If the ground level was raised a bit higher, the model would be for a three tree group. |
 Photo 3: If a tropical tree is cut down close to the ground, several fast growing trunks will develop. Being the same age, they could grow evenly thick and be about the same height. But, if the trunks developed at different times, the tallest, oldest trunk would also be the thickest. Crowns and branches are determined by light availability. These photos were taken when the trees had less leaves to allow study of the trunk and branch structures. |
 Photo 4: This tree behind Hilo's popular Cafe 100 Drive Inn was growing with other trees around it and the tree more resembles a forest tree that is more slender and tall. Except for the top, most branches are on one side and such trees are not generally suitable for single tree bonsai. But they are ideal for creating forest groups. In forest plantings, it is desirable to have some trees very close together with some larger spaces to give variety. |
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Photo 5: Most of the trees above were growing amongst houses that were washed away in the 1946 and 1962 tsunamis. They grew tall as they reached for the light. In contrast, this tree grew next to the pond and always had a lot of light. It is therefore shorter with longer branches. The multiple arch bridge crosses Wailoa Pond. On the other bank the round building with the blue roof is Wailoa Center which is the community's show place where the annual All-Big Island Bonsai Show is held during the July 4th weekend. |
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Photo 6: The study of tops of several closely growing trees can suggest good group planting designs. |