“Commemorating a Century: Brooklyn Botanic Garden’s Esteemed Bonsai Collection Celebrates 100 Years”

The Brooklyn Botanic Garden (BBG) is presently honoring the centenary of its renowned bonsai collection. Founded in 1925, it stands as one of the most historic and extensive bonsai collections on public display outside Japan, featuring over 400 plants. The festivities, which commenced on June 14, 2025, will run until October 19, 2025. Throughout this timeframe, guests can explore an enhanced showcase of bonsai specimens, including some of the garden’s tiniest. Moreover, there will be gardening demonstrations and special ticketed sake dinners.

Adrian Benepe, the president of the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, conveyed his pride in the garden’s role as the steward of this distinct collection, emphasizing bonsai as an art form that blends horticulture, design, and patience. The collection was significantly expanded by Frank Masao Okamura, the garden’s inaugural bonsai curator, who served from 1947 to 1981. He incorporated bonsai from a variety of plant species, including tropical and semi-tropical varieties.

The collection is situated in the C.V. Starr Bonsai Museum, where Gardener David Castro works to provide a fresh and engaging experience by regularly refreshing the display with blooming and aromatic trees. The anniversary offers a chance for creative interpretations of the collection. All centennial exhibits and tours are part of garden admission, presenting a unique opportunity to experience this remarkable showcase until October 19, 2025.

For additional details, you can check out the Brooklyn Botanic Garden via their [website](https://www.bbg.org/), [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/brooklynbotanic/), or [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/BrooklynBotanic).

All images and information are provided with the courtesy of the Brooklyn Botanic Garden.