(JNi.media) The strength and durability of the bonsai tree is admired in Japanese culture, and now an Israeli strain of the bonsai has managed to penetrate the usually protective Japanese market, with the development of Basil Bonsai, featuring increased strength and durability and a treat to the olfactory system.
Eyal Inbar, director of ornamental plants exports at Hishtil, the largest herb manufacturer in the world, says this penetration of the Japanese market with the Basil Bonsai is a badge of honor to the Israeli landscaping industry. Japanese consumers are renowned for being uncompromising when it comes to the quality and appearance of their plants.
The grafted basil endows the bonsai tree with greater resistance to cold conditions, high leaf yield, a stronger plant, faster re-growth after harvest, and disease tolerance for soil born diseases.
Basil is perennial in tropical climates. Its high sensitivity to unfavorable (cold) conditions, however, means that the amateur gardener is only able to enjoy it for a short period. The grafted basil increases the survival rate and life expectancy for years, especially if brought indoors once winter arrives.
This development of Hishtil gets its strength from grafting the basil plant onto the strong root system of the bonsai tree. The process improves the durability of the Basil Bonsai against diseases and climate disasters, requiring less use of pesticides to repulse disease.
The Basil Bonsai appeals to the minimalist Japanese gardens and living spaces. It allows consumers to enjoy the visual beauty of the bonsai and the aroma of the basil, which is particularly suitable for enriching salads.
The Israeli Basil Bonsai has also been successful in South Korea, where it is being sold in leading flower shops across Seoul.
Hishtil is a world leader in plant propagation and grafting of vegetable plants. Its main product lines are seedlings and young plants of vegetables, ornamental plants and herbs. The company is renowned for being at the forefront of knowledge based plant propagation. Its innovative approach that combines horticulture expertise and industry awareness with the benefits of cutting-edge technology results in production of the healthiest possible plant material.