While it is a Japanese word and the whole practice is firmly rooted in the Orient, you will find bonsai plants all over the world. While bonsai is usually linked with Japan, it originated in China. It began as early as the eighth century. In oriental cultures, art brings order to the everyday world, therefore bonsai fits in very comfortably as an art form, bringing nature into balance and scale. Bonsai plants can actually be any tree or shrub grown outdoors.
Some plants seem to be more suited to it than others.
The most common plant you will see as a bonsai are junipers, since they are easily pruned and trained. But if you have ever visited any large bonsai collections such as the one at the National Arboretum in Washington, DC, you will see everything from blooming cherry trees, to azaleas, quinces and redbuds, to elms, maples and birch trees. Upon seeing one of these outstanding collections, or even one beautiful specimen, many gardeners are eager to own one. But a basic understanding of the plants, the culture and care should be taken into consideration before purchase. Many nurseries now offer a selection of bonsai plants for purchase.