The National Bonsai & Penjing Collection of Australia is a stunning public display featuring over 75 styled trees. The Collection features a variety of traditional and modern styles and highlights include many Australian native species including Banksia serrata and Eucalyptus camaldulensis'.
Many of the trees are owned by the Collection whilst others are on loan from around Australia by the artists or their families. The rotation of trees allows for continued involvement with the community and enables a dynamic and diverse collection that is always changing and providing new experiences for visitors.
The Collection can be appreciated throughout the seasons, from a burst of colour in spring to dramatic colours in autumn.
The Collection is located alongside the Village Centre at the National Arboretum Canberra where several of the species featured in bonsai form can be seen in the surrounding forests.
Please note:
Fully accessible with sealed, level pathways.
No dogs allowed, assistance dogs only.
Hours
See listed hours
Daily: 09:00–16:00
Facilities and visitor features
17 features
Caters for people who use a wheelchair.
Caters for people with sufficient mobility to climb a few steps but who would benefit from fixtures to aid balance. (This includes people using walking frames and mobility aids)
An access and inclusion statement is available on the business website.
The National Bonsai and Penjing Collection is housed within the National Arboretum Canberra. There is a wide variety of bonsai trees in different shapes, sizes and colours, including some I had never seen before. Each tree feels unique compared to the rest. If you are a bonsai enthusiast or someone who enjoys admiring trees/plants, this is the perfect place to visit. You can spend time reading through the detailed information provided. Each tree has a name and an information plaque that clearly outlines the species, its age, when it was first styled, and the artist behind it. The entire collection is well maintained. All in all, it is a beautiful collection and definitely worth a visit because it is one of the main highlights of the National Arboretum Canberra. Highly recommended!
jan heisner
Google review
Ar the Arboretum. A real treasure with beautiful, old bonsai trees. From the Arboretum you have a lovely view and there's a cafe with delicious food.
Nora
Google review
I always visit when I'm in town. Lovely to have free access to this facility. Parking is paid however using the Easy Park app or via machine and displaying ticket on dash of car. Plenty of parking. Busy within the main pavilion but there are walks throughout the grounds. The plaques in front of each bonsai show that some are very very old! Beautiful living pieces of art 😍
Ozzie Chaiwala
Google review
What a lovely inspiring place to visit. It has to be seen to believe and there is very little that words would be able to express.
We were delighted to see so many bonsai trees and amazed at how well they have been kept for so many years!
Inspired to train a Jade ourselves!
Shankar Niraula
Google review
National Bonsai & Penjing Collection of Australia in Canberra is a peaceful garden showcasing beautifully shaped miniature trees from Australia and around the world. It offers a calm, inspiring space to appreciate the art, history, and patience behind bonsai and penjing cultivation.