Multi-Trunked Shimpaku Rock Planting

This composition was created one cold January day in 2006, when I probably shouldn't have been working on it but it survived so all is good. Truth be known the plant fit so well into the stone very little was done to the roots. This Shimpaku was grown in the ground from a cutting originally struck by Ken Duncan. I suspect it was 6-8 years old when first styled. The stone is from David Wertz, who purchased it from Randy Price in Gilbert, Sc. I believe it is what is known as lace stone in the aquarium hobby. I really see this composition as one with several fronts. Now, in fall of 2008 this tree has recovered very well from its first styling and should be ready for its second sometime in 2009. I would like to think this is one of my most original works.