John and John,
Pemphis is truly a wonderful material for bonsai. The trees grow along the coastal side, with harsh conditions where they are at times hit by strong wind and waves during the typhoon season. They are very easy to grow, most of the yamadoris are collected sometimes with out the roots specially those growing in rocks, one can say that they are actually huge cuttings, they root very easily when potted.
I try to grow the JBP here in Manila just as to enjoy having a few or should I say, having a few disappointments. Mine are all grown from seeds, I don't have big expectations for them though. It is very difficult to beat the Pemphis in competitions over here.
Attaching another picture taken from the show. By the way, the bonsai in the first photo is owned by my friend victor.
Best regards,
Leo