Ornamental trees are a beautiful addition to any landscape, and among them, weeping trees and topiary trees hold a special place due to their unique shapes and forms. This article will delve into the characteristics, identification features, and examples of these two types of trees.
Weeping trees are characterized by their drooping branches and leaves, which create a 'weeping' appearance. This unique form is not only visually appealing but also provides a great deal of shade, making them a popular choice for parks and gardens.
Weeping trees typically have branches that fall or 'weep' towards the ground. This can be due to natural growth patterns or specific cultivation techniques. The leaves of these trees also tend to hang down, enhancing the weeping effect.
Willow (Salix): Known for their long, slender branches that droop towards the ground, willows are one of the most recognized weeping trees. The Weeping Willow is a common variety that is often found near bodies of water.
Birch (Betula): The Young's Weeping Birch is a popular variety that features pendulous branches and a generally smaller size, making it suitable for residential landscapes.
Elm (Ulmus): The Camperdown Elm is a weeping variety known for its dense canopy of hanging branches.
Topiary is the horticultural practice of training perennial plants by clipping the foliage and twigs of trees, shrubs and subshrubs to develop and maintain clearly defined shapes. Topiary trees are often found in formal gardens, but they can also be a fun addition to home landscapes.
Topiary involves shaping trees and shrubs into specific forms, often geometric or fanciful shapes. This is achieved through careful pruning and training, often with the help of wire frames. Topiary requires regular maintenance to keep the shapes well-defined.
Topiary trees are characterized by their clearly defined shapes, which can range from simple geometric forms like spheres and cones to more complex shapes like animals or spirals. The foliage is typically dense and well-maintained.
Boxwood (Buxus): Boxwoods are a popular choice for topiary due to their dense, evergreen foliage and slow growth rate, which makes them easier to shape and maintain.
Yew (Taxus): Yews are often used for topiary because of their dense, dark green foliage and tolerance for heavy pruning.
Privet (Ligustrum): Privets are fast-growing and can be easily shaped, making them a common choice for topiary hedges and borders.
In conclusion, weeping trees and topiary trees are unique forms of ornamental trees that can add a touch of elegance and whimsy to any landscape. Understanding their characteristics and common genuses can help you identify these trees and appreciate their beauty.