Bonsai are miniature trees or shrubs that are grown in containers and meticulously pruned and shaped over a long period of time to mimic the shape and style of full size trees. The practice of growing bonsai originated in China and Japan where it was seen as an art form that required great patience and skill to cultivate small trees that capture the essence of nature. Bonsai are appreciated for their natural beauty and ability to reflect the passage of time in a small pot or container.