ABOUT TOPIARY

Topiary is the art of creating sculptures using clipped trees and shrubs. The name 'Topiary' originates   from the Latin word for a Landscape Gardener, topiarius, the creator of topia or "places". Topiary was first introduced into Rome by a friend of Julius Caesar.

However it was in the 16th century that Topiary became very fashionable in England and was used extensively within the grounds of stately homes, where many examples can still be seen today, such as in the Topiary Garden at Beckley Park.

The shrubs and trees used in topiary are evergreen and always have small leaves or needles with dense foliage.  

Common plants used in topiary include Box (Buxus sempervirens), Arborvitae (Thuja),   Bay laurel   (Laurus nobilis),   Holly (Ilex), Myrtle (Eugenia or Myrtus species),   and Privet (Ligustrum species).

Shaped wire cages are sometimes employed in modern topiary, but traditional topiary depends on patience and a steady hand and can be a source of great enjoyment.