Our History

In 1970 Descanso Bonsai Society was founded under the leadership of Dick Wydman. Dick was well known in the world of bonsai as a lecturer and teacher of the art. He was a member of the Santa Anita Bonsai Society and the California Bonsai Society. Dick taught ornamental horticulture at numerous colleges, and held classes in his home and at Descanso Gardens until his death in 1977.

Among some of the first members of the club were Marty Mann, Warren Hill, Elizabeth Likes and Jim Everman. At a rare meeting in October 2007, all of the above mentioned people were able to meet and catch up at the Golden State Bonsai Federation Convention in Anaheim, California. Below is a picture taken by Michael Jonas during that meeting.

Since its origin in 1970 consisting of 22 members, Descanso Bonsai Society has grown to be one of the leading bonsai clubs in the United States. Meetings are held the third Tuesday of each month at 7:30 PM, in Van de Kamp Hall at Descanso Gardens, 1418 Descanso Drive, La Canada, California. Monthly programs consist of lectures and demonstrations by well-known bonsai masters, hands-on workshops, plus benefit drawings that feature bonsai pots, plants, books and literature.

The Annual DBS Bonsai Exhibit is staged in early June. It includes a formal display of masterpiece trees, plus a judged exhibit for novices. It also includes a large benefit drawing and plant sale, demonstrations by bonsai masters and a massive sale of bonsai stock, supplies and related items.