Kusamono and Shitakusa

Kusamono (literally "grass thing") and shitakusa are a potted collection of plants designed to be either be viewed in accompaniment with bonsai, or alone. In contrast to underplantings (which are potted in with the bonsai), kusamono and shitakusa are displayed separately in special pots, driftwood, or even stones. Plants used are typically moss, grass, lichen, small flowers, bamboo, or bulbs, that may heighten the beauty or reflect a certain season.While traditionally in Japan, plants gathered from mountains contributed to the bulk of companion plantings, modern use has extended to more creative and artistic design.