Structuring shrubs and trees in the garden – plant selection

A Blade of Grass

When we look at garden design as an art form, we begin to see plants in a broader way: their size, shape, durability and seasonal character all help create a beautiful garden. If you are designing a new outdoor space, first use shrubs and trees to create a strong framework.

Structuring shrubs and trees

CYAN Horticulture

Plant structure is crucial in the garden. Traditional Italian gardens, for example, rely on hedges and topiary of every kind to create symmetry. Despite that grand example, the same approach can easily be adapted to a small garden.

Shrubs and trees – structuring with Italian cypress

Verdance Fine Garden Design

Shown in an urban courtyard, this small Mediterranean cypress (Cupressus sempervirens Tiny Tower) gives the space the necessary structure and creates a green backdrop for white tulips.

Water requirements: well-drained soil
Light requirements: full sun
Size and height: up to 30 meters high and 3 meters wide
Planting time: anytime

Ball maple (Acer platanoides Globosum)

CYAN Horticulture

These spherical maples look like giant lollipops and are ideal for small sites.
Water requirements: moist, well-drained soil
Light requirements: full sun
Size and height: up to 16 meters high and 13 meters wide
Spring foliage with autumn color
Planting time: anytime

Hedges and boxwood

Bubbles landscape architecture

Boxwood is a true garden classic. Its naturally dense, rounded growth and small dark-green leaves make it one of the best choices for structuring shrubs. Robust and reliable, boxwood can be clipped into spheres, spirals and even animal forms.

Water requirements: moist soil
Light requirements: full sun or partial shade
Size and height: variable
Foliage: throughout the year
Planting time: anytime

Real laurel (Laurus nobilis)

CYAN Horticulture

With its fragrant dark-green foliage, bay laurel creates an unforgettable setting for perennial flowers. It can be clipped into different forms, from ovoid to pyramidal.

Water requirements: well-drained, rather dry soil
Light requirements: full sun
Size: variable
Foliage: throughout the year
Planting time: anytime

Shrub lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)

English lavender is robust and almost as popular as boxwood. It thrives in sunny, dry soil. After blooming, each lavender shrub should be cut back by about half.

Water requirements: well-drained, dry soil
Light requirements: full sun
Size: 1.5 meters high and 2.5 meters wide
Foliage: throughout the year
Planting time: anytime

D-Crain Design and Construction

Prideaux Design

Tim Davies Landscaping

Green Growth Landscape Design

Countries Architects, Inc.