Topiary: An Overview

The art of topiary involves creating sculptures from shrubs, sub-shrubs, and trees by clipping them in specific ways. Another variation of topiary is to create a wire cage in a specific shape and to allow small-leafed ivy to grow over the cage and form a living shape.

The word “topiary” is derived from Latin and the actual process has strong Greek and Roman roots. In fact, there are numerous writings that tell of the animals, obelisks, ciphers, and inscriptions that were created from evergreen trees and shrubs during these ancient times.

The sculptures created with topiary can be abstract pieces of art. Or, they can be simple representations of animals or other structures. The designs are really only limited to the creator’s imagination.

Regardless of the design created, only evergreen trees are used in topiary. In addition, the most desirable trees to use in this art form are those with small leaves or needles. In this way, the trees are capable of producing dense foliage. In addition, those that have compact or columnar growth habits are the best specimen to use in topiary. Some of the most commonly used shrubs used for topiary include:

• Arborvitae (Thuja spp.)
• Bay laurel (Laurus nobilis)
• Box (Buxus sempervirens)
• Holly (Ilex spp.)
• Myrtle (Eugenia or Myrtus species)
• Privet (Ligustrum species)
• Yew (Taxus species)

To aid in the creation process, some topiary artists use wire cages that they place around the evergreen tree or shrub. These cages are used to guide untutored shears. Traditionalists, however, do not use the wire cage. Rather, they rely upon a steady hand and their own ability to create the shape without the help of a wire cage.