When it comes to giving a gift, there is always that question of what is the best for this year?

If you are like me, you want to give something that is different, fun, pretty, useful and of quality. And it has to fit within a reasonable budget.

This year, for whatever occasion you are giving a present, consider the living gift of a bonsai tree. Bonsai trees are regular trees (and shrubs) that have been trained to grow at a miniature size. While there are traditional trees such as junipers and cedars that are typically turned into bonsai trees, almost any plant can be grown at a reduced size. Including many trees that produce spectacular flowers and even fruit.

So what makes a bonsai tree such a special gift? Of course, their beauty is one special quality. And it is a beauty that will change overtme as the bonsai tree grows and changes. There is an almost mystical tradition behind bonsai trees which hearkens to the mysterious Orient.

There is the challenge to maintaining a bonsai tree. While keeping most bonsai trees alive and thriving is relatively easy. To help structure its future growth means the recipient of a bonsai tree will want to learn a whole new body of knowledge. And, finally, a bonsai tree can last a lifetime or longer.

Who is a good candidate for receiving a bonsai tree as a gift? Anyone who is old enough to be responsible for caring for a plant. I remember giving a bonsai tree to a nephew a few years ago. I was there on Christmas when he opened up the box I had wrapped the night before. And, I admit, it was not the gift he was most excited over. But over the years, he cared for the bonsai and created a special replationship with the tree. It was one of the few things he took with him, when he went to college… More adult people will immediately recognize how special a bonsai tree is.

So put the bonsai tree on your list of potential gifts this year. It is truly a gift that can surprise and delight as well as last a lifetime.

What kind of bonsai tree are available? Visit my bonsai tree site at Bonsaitreesite.com, to find out.