Quick Links to Live Topiaries
Different Styles in Live Topiary Plants
There are a wide range of designs used in this flora based art form. Many of the same geometric shapes are used in indoor plants as are found in topiary gardens. A popular choice is the ball topiary. This design is a sphere formed from a densely growing plant at the top of a trimmed stem. You can find plants with one ball or three balls stacked vertically on their stem.
Small versions of this style can be found in Ivy and Lemon Cypress and range in size between six and 12 inches in diameter. Some are small enough in height to place on a kitchen table as the centerpiece, while others are up to five feet tall and serve better as entryway plants.
The cone is another popular choice that emulates the elongated shape of pine trees and other coniferous plants. These beauties are formed from Ivy, Lemon Cypress or Rosemary. Ranging in height from 12 to 50+ inches the cone shaped topiary plant fills a lot of vertical space in empty hallways, entryways or even a three season room.
Another shape that is seen from time to time is the spiral, which is similar to a cone, but the foliage is cut in such a way as to make it appear as if the plant is spiraling up in a tight coil. This style takes more effort and planning to create. It is usually seen in plants that are at least 12 inches tall, but it is more likely seen in a larger plant.
Unusual Forms for Live Topiaries
You may also see a number of unusual shapes formed from live topiary plants. Shapes, such as hearts, butterflies and flowers may be formed from Angel Vine and wrapped around a sturdy wire to support it as the vine grows. Ranging between 11 and 23 inches in height with their pots, these plants are ideal to serve as table centerpieces for parties. Afterwards, the guest of honor may take the topiary home as a reminder of the special occasion.
Those who are interested in trying to form their own shapes from various kinds of foliage can also purchase an untrained plant. A mini olive tree is a perfect plant for forming a ball design with a bit of regular trimming over time. These topiary trees can also be planted outside in mild climates. The vining plants, such as Ivy and Angel Vine are easier to form into immediate shapes, but do require special frames to hold their form. Maintaining that shape is simply a matter of trimming back the vines as they start to creep out from the pot.