Root Bonsai

Clear growth mediums are a thing, and specifically a narrow slot of the stuff that causes the roots to grow in a mostly two dimensional pattern. These are used with clear planters so the roots can be observed.

The idea is to grow a bonsai plant where, in addition to molding, trimming and sculpting the top portion, the roots are accessed by laying the whole thing flat, removing the front panel and sculpting the roots as well, most likely in a pattern that matches or compliments the upper portion of the plant.

I'd start with the top part doing a swirly pattern in one direction and the roots doing a swirly pattern in the other direction, but obviously it'd be up to the artist / gardener.

You know, if I were going to do this I think I'd want the whole thing, top and bottom to be growing between two pieces of glass so the whole plant would be mostly two dimensional.