Topiary is a form of decorative art that has been enjoyed in many cultures throughout history. Topiary by definition is the art of creating and arranging sculptures made from shrubs, small trees and hedges.

While it is unclear to be sure where topiary specifically originated from there is substantial information known about its roots in European culture.

The presence of topiary has been commented on many occasions in literature from the Roman Empire. Julius Caesar in particular was mentioned for his pioneering tastes in exterior design. Visitors to his gardens wrote enthusiastic reports about figures of animals, roman numerals and mottos presented in the form of cropped bushes and hedges.

As news of the popularity of topiary travelled across Europe more gardeners tried to turn their hands to it. Original topiary designs started off fairly simple with single elaborate pieces used to draw attention to vacant areas. Topiary was popular on terraces and in minimal forms in plant boxes. The designs were simple shapes that were becoming known through geometry at the time such as pyramids, helixes and obelisks.

Gardeners in Holland advanced designs by making more complex formations and patterns. This new style developed and became more popular, eventually moving to England in the seventeenth century. The Dutch approach became acceptable and more commonplace and still sets the standard today.

Topiary is an art form that many of us have enjoyed around stately homes and public gardens. Topiary is often displayed in eye catching formations such as animals and intricate blocks with symmetrical patterns.

Although different plants can be used to create topiary displays there are some which remain popular due to their versatility and resilience. Holly, privet, laurels and other plants that are indigenous to British gardens are commonly used.

Plants used for topiary are evergreen so that designs can remain and be marveled at through all seasons. Plants used for topiary have either small leaves or needles which allow them to bloom into thick foliage. As the growth of the plant is fairly thick it is the perfect plant to be cut back to form layers of varying depth. Using this technique, gardeners can create a variety of different effects to suit designs.

Another benefit of using evergreen plants is that designs can be grown over time, eventually representing something of grandeur style. As designs expand over time keen gardeners may arrange them into larger configurations. A well known example being hedge mazes which many stately homes can boast.