Beginner bonsai trees should all have one thing in common - they should all be easy to look after. Although the art of the bonsai is frequently seen as one which is extremely difficult and takes many years to master, this should not put off anyone new to bonsai growing. There are a number of species which are very hardy, can withstand various light conditions and don't need to be monitored as if it were a hospital patient. These include:

Cherry Blossom - Many bonsai trees are considered to be either indoor or outdoor species, however the cherry blossom is one bonsai which can fit into both categories. Not only that but they are especially beautiful.

Azalea - The most common species you will find are the satkuzi azalea and the kurume azalea. They also have very beautiful flowers which will brighten up any garden.

Cotoneaster - There are over 200 varieties of cotoneaster however the most popular for bonsai purposes are horizontalis, Microphyllus and Compacta Nana. These plants should be kept outdoors, and although they are generally very hardy plant, you will need to protect them from the winter frost.

Juniper - Whenever most people think of a bonsai tree it is the juniper plant to springs to mind and is commonly referred to as the "Karate Kid".

Japanese Maple - Although this is not a flowering bonsai, the leaves more than make up for it, ranging from tones of gold to red.

This article is simply an introduction to anyone thinking of growing bonsai trees. It is important that you read up as much as possible on each variety to make certain you are buying the bonsai that is right for you. Just because they are the easiest of bonsai to care for does not mean you should neglect them. They will still need watering, feeding, pruning and re-potting, however this should be easy enough for any beginner bonsai grower.