Azaleas are the most flamboyant of flowering shrubs, producing masses of bright flowers in late spring, with the exception of midsummer for Satsuki azaleas. Commonly, they flower in midwinter. 'Kaho' is a shrub with large trumpet-like flowers in soft, pale shades of pink. Most popular of all bonsai are the evergreen Satsuki azaleas: many Japanese enthusiasts grow nothing else. There are untold numbers of Satsuki azaleas which are constantly hybridized in Japan and which are classified by the shape, size and colour pattern of the flowers.

The Japanese maple is the most widely grown maple in gardens and is a perfect subject for bonsai. It is valued for its compact size, delicate ferny foliage and brilliant fall (autumn) colouring - from rich gold to deepest blood-red. Although more tolerant of winter climates than most maples, it needs shade and shelter or leaves may shrivel. The more than 300 cultivars range from rock garden miniatures to vigorous small trees, with a variety of leaf shape, size and colour. 'Sangokaku' (syn. 'Senkaki') has coral branches and twigs, which are bare in winter - producing a wonderful show. 
 

Most of the Japanese Azaleas are very successful as bonsai. Even ancient plants produce spectacular flowers with all the freshness of a nursery plant. The Kurume azaleas have wonderful flowers, just as the Satsuki azaleas, but are usually smaller and with more solid colours, leading to a more refined appearance. The flowers of Kurume azaleas are small about 1cm (1/2in) across. Most flowers are single.

Figs are mostly tropical plants naturally growing wild in south-east Asian jungles. Many hundreds of species make up this large tree family. Highly suited to bonsai treatment. The striking aerial roots of the banyan fig are often featured in clasped-to-rock styles.