I met Andre in our local Bootleggers coffee shop in November 2023. Almost 12 months later, I was able to present Andre with a copy of the new paperback book he had originally envisioned. Currently, the eBook edition of Spekboom Bonsai Masterclass has a ranking of #11 on Amazon within the “Bonsai” category. How long till his new book rightly takes the top spot I wonder?
Your author’s name
Andre Swart
Your book title
Spekboom Bonsai Masterclass (Portulacaria afra)
Give us the elevator pitch for your book?
This book is an essential guide for Spekboom bonsai enthusiasts, providing valuable information for beginners and experienced growers alike. In South Africa, local bonsai artists are actively incorporating indigenous species, leading to a resurgence of this art form with the development of unique African styles and trees. The book serves as an invaluable reference guide, offering detailed instructions and photographs on essential growing requirements such as watering, fertilising, pruning, and repotting.
Key highlights of the book include: Fundamental knowledge for selecting appropriate Spekboom materials and techniques for creating your own bonsai masterpieces. Acquiring an understanding of the growth behaviours specific to Spekboom is indispensable for progress within this discipline of art.
What would you give as your main reason or goal for writing?
Portulacaria afra is commonly used in Bonsai all over the world but sadly, to my experience not so much in South Africa. Maybe one of the reasons is, that this specie is a succulent and grows as a scrub, but this is not true, as I will show you in this book. In my opinion, Portulacaria Afra is totally underestimated for its potential as true Bonsai material and that is why I call Portulacaria Afra “ the underdog”.
Therefore it is helpful to understand a little of the inner workings of the Spekboom tree to enable us to get the best out of them. It is also good to know about this extraordinary species being worked on and where it’s from. We also need to understand there is only so far you can push a species to live in a climate zone displaced from its evolutionary past, Not only that but where in that zone, in which microclimate did it live, halfway up the mountain or alongside a riverbed.
Understanding that evolutionary environment is helpful. Because by simulating some of its features, you might get a better result out of your tree, where you live. And this is so applicable to Portulacaria Afra, even though it is such a resilient tree and can tolerate neglect in moderation.
Who was the book written for?
This book offers valuable insights for both beginners embarking on their journey with Spekboom bonsai and experienced growers who are already proficient in their craft. In South Africa, local bonsai artists are increasingly incorporating indigenous species, which is contributing to a resurgence in the cultivation of local plants and their development into exceptional bonsai specimens.
How long did it take for you to finish the final draft of your book?
I started collecting information and photos five years ago, and it took me nearly 18 months to complete the book. I’m proud of the effort I put into consolidating all my research and knowledge into this final product.
What makes this book different from others on the shelf?
The book is not the typical bonsai manual, but serves as a guide to artistic storytelling, showcasing how to draw inspiration from nature to design this species in a distinctively African style.
What was the hardest part of the writing journey for you?
Choosing the right materials for the theoretical explanation while determining which research to exclude was quite challenging. I evaluated various sources for their relevance and structured the text chronologically to enhance clarity, aiming for a narrative style that makes the information relatable and easy to follow.
Your favourite place to write?
At home, we have a study room that we converted for myself and Isabel, my wife. From this room, we can enjoy a view of a section of our beautiful garden, where the aroma of blooming jasmine fills the air next to the window.
What kept you motivated to write during the times you felt stuck?
Isabel was strongly encouraging me to complete my work before the deadline, which was the African Bonsai Convention taking place in Stellenbosch in November 2024. I dedicated hours to hard work and rigorous revisions, and her unwavering support—along with our tea breaks and late-night snacks—proved invaluable in helping me achieve my (our) goal.
What is Geo – Cache?
As there are so many beautiful examples of Spekboom in the wild, I started 6 years ago developing these magnificent specimens in their native habitat. This involves a process of careful design, styling to enhance the natural beauty of the tree, and pruning to maintain its shape.(with the tree is still in its native location) Then, I mark the spot on my Quest GPS to return later (usually after 6 months). Isabel and I will hike up the mountain to reunite with our extended bonsai family. Our day will begin with a delightful picnic, followed by meticulous tree pruning and nurturing the pre-bonsai with some refreshing water. Weather permitting, we will then bid farewell to our current location and move on to the next, continuing our journey through the beautiful arid landscape.
Have you written any other books?
I have not written any other books but realizing that the Spekboom is the “underdog” of bonsai in South Africa, I wrote an article about this topic for the “Bonsaitree” blog post. A video was made of my collection, which can be found at “@dwarfjadebonsai.” The response was overwhelming, with many questions, which motivated me to share my experience and knowledge by putting it on paper.
Assuming you may not write full-time, what is your day job?
I have been a paediatrician for 37 years, and I thoroughly enjoy my work. My passion for children runs deep. I admire their enthusiasm for life, resilience, and ability to adapt with proper guidance. It’s no wonder that I find similarities between these qualities and my bonsai trees, some of which are named after my long-term oncology patients. Just like children, my trees exhibit their personalities—sometimes demanding attention, care, or expressing needs like thirst or hunger.
Over time, I’ve come to appreciate the individual nature and genetic diversity of each tree, learning not to adhere strictly to rules and schedules when tending to them. After a demanding day at the hospital, I find solace and rejuvenation working on my bonsai in my garden, allowing the positive energy of my trees to recharge my spirits.
Tell us something about yourself that readers would not be able to guess?
I have a special connection with these trees as if they are my children. It allows me to express my creativity by shaping and styling a specific tree. Caring for a bonsai tree can be meditative and very calming after a busy day, helping to reduce stress. Isabel and I share a passion for plant and tree cultivation, which deepens our connection with nature and enhances our appreciation for the beauty of these trees.
In the tranquil evenings, while working on my bonsai, I enjoy the soothing melodies of “Nocturne Op.9 No.2 – Chopin,” through my headset, a true privilege.
I collected butterflies a long time ago and still have the largest collection of butterflies representing Namibian species. I am a keen scuba diver and have visited many popular dive sites over the world.
Love the outdoors and 4×4 solo tours.
I have a great admiration for all types of music except for R&B; heavy rock positively blows my mind. I have been playing the guitar since I was 6 years old. However, playing “Nocturne Op.9 No.2” by Chopin on the piano remains challenging!
How should someone get in touch with you?
Everything (including the link to purchase my book) can be found from my website: www.bromibonsai.co.za (Website was designed by us ♥)
