3-Stone Arrangement
Oyaishi (main stone) — largest, dominant feature. Placed at golden ratio point (1/3 from left or right). Fukuishi (secondary stone) — supports oyaishi. Soeishi (third stone) — balances composition.
Create flow lines leading toward main stone. Avoid equal-sized rocks — variety adds depth.
5 and 7-Stone Versions
5-stone adds 2 smaller accent stones. 7-stone includes 2 additional pebbles or tiny rocks. Always odd numbers — Japanese aesthetic avoids symmetry.
Rule: one dominant stone + supporting cast. Never equal presence.
Plant Selection
Iwagumi traditionally uses one plant species only — usually a carpet plant like dwarf hairgrass, Monte Carlo, or HC cuba.
Modern variations include Utricularia graminifolia or Eleocharis. Focus stays on rocks, not plants.
Common Stones
Seiryu stone (grey with white veins), Manten stone (dark), Ryuoh stone (textured grey). Get 3x more than you need — break rocks apart for natural look.
Age stones before use — soak 2 weeks in bucket to leach minerals.