Scientific name: Ulmus Chinensis Var. Catlin

Origin: China, selected by  John Catlin, La Canada, CA. although very similar to what is popular bonsai material in China.

Distinguishing feature: Dwarf shining green foliage; Evergreen in mild CA climate, Leaves become tiny with increased ramifications. Note the lawn-like moss powder by keeping the rootball constantly moist. 

Style: Elm over rock, inspired by the Unesco Heritage Site, Mount Huangshan.

History: Inspired by a Huangshan tour I took in 1998, I planted two one gallon size Catlin elm trees next to a Desert Rose rock (Utah/Arizona). The trees were planted in the soil below and tied and nailed to the lava rack and eventually attached to the rock as it grew. I drastically cutback the tree on the right to introduce asymmetry. The trees grow quickly.