It probably doesn't matter much what species the tree is. We use similar techniques on all trees.
First up, decide what you want from your potensai. There's usually 2 broad possibilities:
1. I really want a 'bonsai' in a bonsai pot and don't really care about age features or character - Plant it in a bonsai pot and keep trimming as it grows. Wire the trunk and put some bends in if you like that look. In a couple of years you should have a straight, skinny trunk with a small canopy of branches and foliage. Your tree will still be thin in 10 years or more.
2. I really want a thick trunk bonsai that looks old and has real character - This takes many years. The quickest way is to plant it into a larger pot and allow it to grow. Let it grow tall and chop back every few years. Continue the grow and chop cycle until the trunk reaches desired thickness and has nice bends from the regular cut and grow. Now begin to cut more regularly to promote branching. Allow branches to grow long then chop in cycles similar to the trunk, gradually reducing grow time to promote more and more branching. Eventually reduce roots and transfer to a bonsai pot. Depending on your skill, conditions and species you could develop a good bonsai in 5-15 years.
Many good bonsai are not grown up from seedlings. They are often cut down from older, larger trees.
Have fun and good luck with your jacaranda.
I really like the look of Hanoki Cypress and can find some good candidates here is the Pacific Northwest that are considered bonsai starters.
