Nam Dinh bonsai exhibition unveils ancient trees worth fortunes

Over 500 rare and ancient bonsai trees are on display at Dong A Square, Nam Dinh, as part of a special exhibition running from February 5 to 13.

A collection of over 500 rare bonsai trees, including centuries-old masterpieces, is on display at Dong A Square in the Tran Temple – Chua Thap historical and cultural complex in Nam Dinh. The exhibition, running from February 5 to 13, has drawn bonsai enthusiasts and visitors alike.

Many of these trees, known as "super trees," boast unique shapes and stunning natural aesthetics, some valued at billions of Vietnamese dong (hundreds of thousands of USD).

Their ancient, intricate root systems and meticulously pruned canopies showcase the dedication and artistry behind decades - sometimes even lifetimes - of cultivation.

One of the highlights is a majestic ancient ficus tree, admired for its imposing roots and wide-spreading canopy, symbolizing resilience and longevity.

According to bonsai experts, this particular tree is among the most valuable of its kind, a rare and near-perfect specimen that is difficult to acquire, even for those willing to pay a high price.

Another standout piece is the "Mai Phong Anh Hung Cach" ficus duo, owned by Tran Nhat Khoa, a renowned bonsai collector in Nam Dinh. The trees, estimated to be around 70 years old, feature harmoniously intertwined trunks and gracefully cascading branches, forming a mirror-like balance between the two.

Despite receiving offers in the billions of VND (tens of thousands of USD), Khoa has chosen not to sell, stating that his trees are not just assets but lifelong passions, meant only for true connoisseurs.

Also captivating visitors is a century-old pair of gnarled persimmon trees, their weathered bark and towering trunks exuding a sense of timeless strength. The leafless branches reveal intricate, sculptural forms, making them striking works of natural artistry.

According to Tran Sy Hung, Chairman of the Nam Dinh Ornamental Plant Association, this exhibition serves as a platform for bonsai artists and collectors to exchange expertise, as well as an opportunity for enthusiasts to appreciate and acquire these living masterpieces.