Forests are concentrated on mountain slopes, where trees are valuable in soil and water conservation. Tree types vary with latitude and elevation. In Hokkaido, spruce, larch, and northern fir are most common, along with alder, poplar, and beech trees. Central Honshu’s more temperate climate supports beech, willows, and chestnuts. The southern areas also have thick stands of bamboo. Japanese cedars and cypresses are found throughout wide areas of the nation and are prized for their wood. Cultivated tree species include fruit trees bearing peaches, plums, pears, oranges, and cherries; mulberry trees for silk production; and lacquer trees, from which the resins used to produce lacquer are derived. Potted miniaturized trees called bonsai are popular among hobbyist gardeners in Japan and are a highly evolved art form.