For more than thirty years, UBI – Italian Bonsai Association has been the leading point of reference for bonsai enthusiasts in Italy. Founded with the aim of promoting bonsai culture, spreading knowledge of this ancient art, and creating a network for sharing among growers, collectors, and enthusiasts, the association is now an established organization recognized both nationally and at European level.
With approximately 1,000 members throughout Italy and 75 affiliated bonsai clubs, UBI is the most important Italian organization dedicated exclusively to bonsai. This extensive network enables enthusiasts from every region to meet, exchange ideas, and grow together, keeping alive the spirit of collaboration that has always characterized the bonsai community.
A Network of Training and Expertise
One of UBI’s main objectives is to promote bonsai culture through education and training. For this reason, the association currently recognizes three UBI Bonsai Schools, which serve as points of reference for technical and artistic instruction, and can count on 35 certified Bonsai Instructors distributed throughout the country.
The instructors represent a guarantee of quality in teaching and accompany enthusiasts along a path of development that combines technique, botanical knowledge, and artistic sensitivity, helping to pass on a discipline that requires study, patience, and dedication.
An Association that Brings Italy’s Bonsai Community Together
UBI is not merely an association, but a true community of people united by the same passion. Throughout the year, its affiliated clubs organize courses, demonstrations, exhibitions, workshops, and technical meetings, creating opportunities for beginners and experts to exchange ideas and experiences.
Becoming part of UBI means being able to share experiences, meet other enthusiasts, and take an active part in the association’s activities, contributing to the growth of the Italian bonsai movement.
The National Congress: The Most Anticipated Event of the Year
The most important event in the association’s calendar is the UBI National Congress, an annual gathering that brings together members from all over Italy.
During the congress, numerous bonsai-related activities take place, including technical demonstrations, lectures, educational sessions, meetings among clubs, and opportunities to exchange ideas with instructors and experts.
The prestigious National Exhibition and Competition is the centerpiece of the event. Open exclusively to UBI members, it showcases some of the finest bonsai cultivated by Italian enthusiasts. The exhibition provides an important opportunity to highlight the work carried out by members and contributes to promoting a culture of excellence in bonsai.
On the occasion of the congress, the photographic volume “Best Bonsai and Suiseki” is also published. This official catalogue features images of the works selected for the exhibition and has, over the years, become a valuable record of the artistic and technical evolution of Italian bonsai.
Information and Outreach
Communication is one of the fundamental tools through which UBI maintains an active relationship with its members.
Every year, the association publishes three official newsletters containing technical articles, in-depth features, association news, and updates on the Italian and international bonsai scene. Highly appreciated by members, the publication is an important source of information and continuing education.
A European Role
UBI’s activities extend beyond Italy’s national borders. The association is a member of the European Bonsai Association (EBA), an organization that brings together the leading European bonsai associations and promotes international cooperation, cultural exchange, and participation in the most important events across the continent.
Through this membership, UBI officially represents Italy within the European bonsai community, contributing to the promotion of the art of bonsai and fostering relationships with international organizations.
The Board of Directors
Unione Bonsaisti Italiani is led by a Board of Directors made up of professionals and enthusiasts who work every day to support the association’s growth.
The current Board of Directors is composed as follows:
• Mirco Tedeschi – President
• Antonio Cerasuolo – Vice President and Board Member, responsible for relations with clubs in Southern Italy
• Luca Di Zio – Secretary and Treasurer
• Donato Danisi – Board Member, responsible for relations with clubs in Northern Italy and with Instructors
• Fabio Curone – Board Member, responsible for institutional relations and relations with EBA and ESA
• Federico Springolo – Board Member, responsible for relations with Instructors
• Enrico Nicolussi – Board Member, responsible for publishing
Becoming a UBI Member
Membership of UBI is open to everyone, from beginners to the most experienced growers. Being part of Unione Bonsaisti Italiani means joining a national network of enthusiasts, taking part in the activities of affiliated clubs, receiving official publications, attending events organized by the association, and contributing to the promotion of bonsai culture in Italy.
Today, UBI represents not only a technical and organizational point of reference, but also a meeting place where tradition, friendship, education, and passion come together, keeping alive an extraordinary cultural heritage that continues to grow thanks to the dedication of its members.
To learn more about the association, its activities, affiliated clubs, events, and membership procedures, visit the official website at www.ubibonsai.it.
