It refers to a single or group of lower branches coming out of a place near the base of trees regardless of their length. Such a branch is extremely important in deciding the shape of a tree. If it is at the very bottom of the tree, it is called ichino eda (first or lowest branch). Generally, many thick branches grow from one place. If two or three branches emerge from the same place, it is better to leave only one and cut the others in order to prevent them from growing bulky.

translated by Kyodo News