Opening of Bonsai Section at Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose Indian Botanic Garden, Howrah
Howrah, 19 December 2025:
Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose Indian Botanic Garden, under the Botanical Survey of India, marked a significant milestone with the inauguration of a newly developed Bonsai Section on 19 December 2025.
The Bonsai Section was formally opened by Dr. Kanad Das, Director, Botanical Survey of India, in the presence of Dr. Devendra Singh, Scientist ‘E’ & Head of Office, AJCBIBG. Located in Division 22 and spread over approximately 0.5 acres, the inauguration ceremony was attended by officers and staff members of the Garden.
The newly established section represents a valuable addition to the Garden’s diverse and specialized collections. It showcases more than 200 bonsai specimens representing over 100 species, belonging to more than 50 genera and 33 plant families. The collection includes a rich array of indigenous species, meticulously trained to demonstrate the aesthetic finesse and biological diversity inherent in the art and science of bonsai.
Among the notable and rare bonsai specimens on display are Commiphora wightii, Pterocarpus santalinus, Adansonia digitata, Araucaria bidwillii, and Flacourtia indica. In addition, the section features several distinctive and horticulturally important bonsai specimens such as Brownea × hybrida, Amherstia nobilis, and Theobroma cacao, among others.
The Bonsai Section has been developed with the objective of promoting awareness of plant diversity, conservation of rare and threatened species, and appreciation of the cultural heritage associated with bonsai art. It is envisioned as an important educational platform for students, researchers, horticulturists, and the general public.
The inauguration of the Bonsai Section marks another milestone in the Garden’s long-standing commitment to botanical research, conservation, and public outreach. The section is expected to emerge as a major attraction, inspiring visitors to appreciate miniature tree forms and adopt sustainable horticultural practices.
