BAY AREA SATSUKI AIKOKAI (BASA)

BASA was established in 1995 by a group of bonsai enthusiasts who were passionate about learning how to develop beautiful Japanese Satsuki Azalea bonsai. Encouraged by their sister organization, Satsuki Aikokai Association of Sacramento, BASA and individual club members sought out expertise in the U.S. and Japan to expand their knowledge and skill as the club grew to be a well regarded resource for expertise, guidance and encouragement in developing fine Satsuki Azalea bonsai.

Our mission is to provide a rich environment for learning and developing the skills to cultivate, style and display Japanese Satsuki Azalea Bonsai. The club offers educational forums on the art form of Satsuki azaleas both for growing the beautiful and multicolored blooms and for development as bonsai. Each Spring BASA presents an exhibition of Satsuki Azaleas to bring public awareness to the art form and to raise funds for club activities and programs.

CLUB ACTIVITIES

The board of advisors for BASA schedules a line up of club activities each year. Club activities include the following:

  •  Meetings to discuss and learn about cultivation, styling and displaying satsuki azalea bonsai in full bloom
  • Programs presented by specialists in the development of satsuki azaleas
  • Field trips to bonsai nurseries and shows within the greater San Francisco/Bay Area
  • The annual two-day fund raising exhibition in May

ANNUAL TWO-DAY EXHIBITION

BASA presents a two-day exhibition in the month of May each year featuring dozens of Japanese Satsuki azalea bonsai. This is an opportunity to see the diverse and often multicolored blooms in developed bonsai. Demonstrations on creating Satsuki azalea bonsai are offered by noted bonsai artists,and educational forums are ongoing both days. Sales of Satsuki azaleas, pots, tools, books and other accessories are provided by club members and selected vendors. Raffles for demonstration trees complete one of the most colorful and beautiful bonsai displays of the year.

Watch for announcements and check our website for specific dates and times. The annual exhibition is held at the Lakeside Garden Center, Lake Merritt, 666 Bellevue Ave. in Oakland. Free admission. Public parking.