01
Find the label and the growing history
Ask the seller for the botanical name and previous growing conditions. Keep a photograph of the label. A common name can refer to more than one plant, while a species name gives you a more precise starting point.
If the tree was a gift, look at the packaging or ask where it came from. Do not make a major seasonal move while the identity is still uncertain.
02
Broadleaf trees: compare shape and arrangement
Ficus commonly has glossy oval leaves; Chinese elm has small toothed leaves; Japanese maple has palmate leaves divided into lobes. Leaf size can change under bonsai cultivation, so arrangement and edges are useful additional clues.
Take photographs of the whole tree, a twig showing several leaves, and both leaf surfaces. Include a scale reference without damaging the plant.
03
Conifers: examine needles and scales
Junipers may carry scale foliage or needle-like juvenile growth. Pines carry needles in bundles, and the number, length and arrangement can help narrow the group. Conifer identity is especially important before advanced pruning.
Do not assume that every needle-leaved miniature tree is a juniper, or that every pine follows one candle-management method.
04
Succulents: do not merge every jade name
Portulacaria afra and Crassula ovata are different plants with different proportions and growth habits. Both have fleshy leaves, but dwarf jade commonly has smaller leaves and reddish young stems.
A plant sold as lucky bamboo is another example of a retail name that does not make it a woody bonsai subject. Use the actual plant identity rather than marketing language.
05
Confirm before high-impact decisions
A plant-identification app can suggest possibilities, but treat the result as a clue. Compare with reliable botanical references and ask a knowledgeable grower when care consequences are significant.
Until confirmed, avoid heavy pruning, bare-rooting or a sudden move into frost or intense sun. Maintain stable suitable conditions based on the best-supported identification.
