The Sonoma Botanical Garden in Glen Ellen opened its “Bonsai & Blossoms” exhibition this month, which features flowering bonsai from members of the Redwood Empire Bonsai Society.
It runs through March 22.
Visitors can explore the garden’s Asian woodland with a Hanami Stroll Guide highlighting early blooming magnolias, cherries and camellias. They can also enjoy azalea, quince and wisteria bonsai that are expected to bloom as winter turns to spring.
Princess Persimmon on display at the Sonoma Botanical Garden exhibit of “Bonsai & Blossoms,” Friday, Jan. 9, 2026, in Glen Ellen. (Kent Porter / The Press Democrat)
A Trident Maple on display at the Sonoma Botanical Garden exhibit of “Bonsai & Blossoms,” Friday, Jan. 9, 2026, in Glen Ellen. (Kent Porter / The Press Democrat)
A Decorative Fig on display at the Sonoma Botanical Garden exhibit of “Bonsai & Blossoms,” Friday, Jan. 9, 2026, in Glen Ellen. (Kent Porter / The Press Democrat)
A Flowering Plum on display at the Sonoma Botanical Garden exhibit of “Bonsai & Blossoms,” Friday, Jan. 9, 2026, in Glen Ellen. (Kent Porter / The Press Democrat)
Firethorn on display at the Sonoma Botanical Garden exhibit of”Bonsai & Blossoms,” Friday, Jan. 9, 2026, in Glen Ellen. (Kent Porter / The Press Democrat)
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Princess Persimmon on display at the Sonoma Botanical Garden exhibit of “Bonsai & Blossoms,” Friday, Jan. 9, 2026, in Glen Ellen. (Kent Porter / The Press Democrat)
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Besides the beautiful minature trees, the exhibition includes docent talks, bonsai workshops, meditation hikes, photo walks, and repotting demonstrations.
Guests may also enjoy a traditional Japanese tea ceremony, special Hanami Strolls, and a Spring Equinox sound bath with complimentary hot tea available.
“Flowering bonsai embody the perfect union of strength and fragility,” said George Haas, a bonsai artist and exhibit organizer, in a Dec. 11 statement.
This year’s exhibition features six local practitioners, with trees ranging from handheld shohin bonsai to larger specimens that are up to 40 inches tall.
Japanese-inspired screens and tulip-style tables complement the minimalist setting, while signage explains the cultural and botanical roots of bonsai.
The Sonoma Botanical Garden, 12841 Highway 12 in Glen Ellen, is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Admission is $15 for adults.
For more information visit sonomabg.org.
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