11 Best Topiary Trees and Shrubs for Your Garden

2024-05-15
11 Best Topiary Trees and Shrubs for Your Garden

A pair of pruners and a few minutes of time are all it takes to turn these easy-care trees and shrubs into pretty pyramids and eye-catching orbs. Shaping topiary trees and flowering shrubs is part art and part science. Begin by choosing plants that tolerate frequent shaping and slowly push out new, dense growth after pruning. Then grab a sharp pair of pruners and get to work sculpting. Get started today with these surefire topiary trees and shrubs.

01 of 11

Juniper

One of the hardiest topiary-friendly shrubs, evergreen juniper is available in a wide range of colors and growth habits. ‘Blue Point’ has striking blue-green foliage and strong pyramidal form. ‘Moonglow’ has silvery blue foliage, and ‘Mint Julep’ has bright green foliage. Juniper is deer resistant.

Light: Full sun to part shade. Juniper tolerates part shade well and is a great plant for areas with morning sun and afternoon shade.

Soil: Drought-tolerant junipers thrive in well-drained soil. Sandy loam is ideal, but plants will grow in a variety of soil types provided the soil isn’t consistently wet or boggy.

Care: Junipers are slow-growing plants that tolerate extreme temperatures well. In regions with intensely cold winter temperatures, plants may take on a purple hue in winter before turning blue green again in spring. Water during periods of drought. Prune in spring as needed.

Zones: 3–9

02 of 11

Monterey Cypress

Also called lemon cypress, Monterey cypress is one of the most stunning evergreen trees with chartreuse new growth and bright lemon-yellow mature foliage. Its cinnamon-colored bark provides a wonderful contrast to the foliage. Unlike juniper which has a prickly texture, Monterey cypress foliage is soft, almost feathery.

Light: Full sun to part shade. Monterey cypress tolerate a variety of light conditions but grows best when it receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.

Soil: Plant these evergreen trees in well-drained moist soil.

Care: Monterey cypress benefits from deep, regular watering during the first couple of years after planting. After establishing a strong root system, it will tolerate moderate drought. Choose a location that is sheltered from harsh winter winds, especially in Hardiness Zone 7. Monterey cypress is deer resistant.

Zones: 7–10

03 of 11

Dwarf Alberta Spruce

Naturally cone-shaped, dwarf Alberta spruce makes a striking pyramid topiary wherever it is planted. Its tiny needles are arranged in a pleasing dense manner that makes it look lush and full. Prune this spruce a couple of times a year to maintain its size.

Light: Full sun to part shade. In Zones 7 and 8, dwarf Alberta spruce benefits from afternoon shade.

Soil: Plant in well-drained soil.

Care: Well-drained soil and regular, deep watering is key to a long-lived dwarf Alberta spruce. Plant it in an area where it will receive good air circulation; don’t plant it too close to a structure where air circulation will be impeded. Dwarf Alberta spruce is easy to grow in a container.

Zones: 2–8

04 of 11

Myrtle

Dark green, glossy leaves make this evergreen shrub a striking topiary plant year-round. The plant’s leaves have a sweet, spicy citrus scent that you’ll enjoy every time you prune. Myrtle can be shaped into a multitude of topiary forms—from orbs to pyramids to pompom trees. Grow myrtle in the garden where it can reach 12 feet tall when pruned minimally or choose a small cultivar, such as ‘Compacta,’ and enjoy it in a container. Additional attributes include drought-tolerance and deer resistance.

Light: Myrtle grows best in full sun to part shade. Myrtle will grow indoors when it has plenty of light. Place it in a south- or west-facing window to catch the most daylight.

Soil: Plant myrtle in well-drained soil. It adapts to a variety of soil types but is sensitive to a consistently moist root zone. Avoid planting it in clay and anywhere that experiences periods of standing water.

Care: Water myrtle deeply every week or so during the first growing season to encourage a robust root system. After a strong root system is established, the shrub usually has good drought tolerance. Prune myrtle in spring and again in midsummer if needed. If it becomes overgrown, myrtle can tolerate hard pruning. Remove as much as one-third of the length of the stems to bring the plant back into shape.

Zones: 8–11

05 of 11

Lilac Standard

A dwarf lilac is commonly grown as a shrub with multiple stems, but topiary forms on tall stems, called standards, are a fun twist on this traditional plant. A lilac standard is typically 4 to 6 feet tall, including the 2- to 3-foot-tall woody stem. The round cluster of leaves and flowers on top of the standard erupts in bloom in spring. The clean, green foliage decorates the plant through the growing season. Lilac standards require little pruning other than snipping spent flower blossoms and clipping back stems in early summer to maintain shape.

Light: Plant a lilac standard in full sun for good flowering. The best site has 8 hours of direct sunlight per day.

Soil: Lilacs grow well in moist, well-drained soil. Choose a location that drains freely and has no standing water.

Care: Lilac standards benefit from staking the first year or so after planting to prevent the top-heavy plants from leaning before its root system is established. Remove the stake in the second growing season. Prune lilac right after flowering in spring.

Zones: 4–8

06 of 11

Hydrangea Standard

Bring hydrangea flowers up to eye level with a hydrangea standard. These big, beautiful shrubs add instant height to the garden and are perfect for creating a focal point at the end of a path or in a quiet corner. Many types of hydrangeas bloom in summer, but with some varieties you will continue to see flowering shrubs in fall.

Light: Plant a hydrangea standard in full sun to part shade. In Zones 7 through 9 plant hydrangea where it will receive morning sun and afternoon shade.

Soil: Hydrangeas grow best in well-drained soil that is rich in nutrients. Amend the planting site by mixing in a 2-inch-thick layer of compost. Spread a 2-inch-layer of compost over the root zone each spring to add nutrients.

Care: Hydrangea standards are purchased at the garden center; it’s not possible to transform a traditional shrub-style hydrangea into a hydrangea standard. Maintain a hydrangea standard by pruning away spent flowers and cutting back wayward stems. Clip away rogue stems that rise from the base of the plant or the trunk.

Zones: 4–9

07 of 11

Boxwood

Tiny, evergreen leaves and a lush, full growth habit make boxwood one of the best topiary trees. Boxwood has been sculpted into a multitude of forms for centuries. It graced grand palaces and simple kitchen gardens thanks to its easy-growing ways. If you are aiming to create a pyramidal boxwood, for example, begin with a cultivar that naturally develops that form. ‘Green Tower’ and ‘Green Mountain’ are great upright selections. ‘Chicagoland Green’ has a round habit.

Light: Plant boxwood in full sun to part shade. It grows well in areas that receive at least 4 hours of bright light a day.

Soil: Well-drained soil is key to good growth. Avoid areas that are wet or boggy.

Care: Prune boxwood in spring and again in midsummer if needed. Plants can be pruned multiple times a year to maintain their shape. Stop pruning in August to avoid spurring new tender foliage that can be damaged in winter.

Zones: 4–9

08 of 11

Holly

A sharp pair of pruners is all you need to sculpt the dense, evergreen foliage holly into a sphere, spiral, pompom, or pyramid. This ultra-easy-care shrub will thrive in a container or planted in the ground. It is best suited for the moderate to warm zones 7 through 9. Boxwood is a good alternative to holly in Zones 6 and below. ‘Emerald Colonnade’ holly is a versatile cultivar that can grow 12 feet tall.

Light: Grow in full sun to part shade.

Soil: Plant holly in well-drained soil that is loose and light. Do not plant in clay.

Care: Water holly regularly and deeply during the first growing season to help it establish a strong root system. Holly tolerates mild drought once established. Prune plants in winter to maintain a tidy appearance.

Zones: 7–9

09 of 11

Arborvitae

Soft, evergreen foliage and exceptional hardiness make arborvitae a winning topiary tree for cool regions. This tough plant withstands below zero temperatures and drying winter winds with ease. Shear it into orbs or pyramids. For small garden topiaries, choose a petite cultivar such as ‘Anna’s Magic Ball’ or ‘Tater Tot.’ Strongly pyramidal cultivars include ‘North Pole’ and ‘Emerald Green.’

Light: Arborvitae grows well in full sun to part shade. Plants growing in part shade will not be as dense as those growing in full sun.

Soil: Moist, well-drained soil is ideal, but arborvitae will tolerate a variety of soil conditions.

Care: Water arborvitae regularly and deeply during the first growing season to establish a strong root system. Plants are mildly drought tolerant after established. Prune plants in spring or summer; don’t prune after late summer to avoid winter injury. Arborvitae is favored by deer; protect plants where deer populations are high.

Zones: 4–8

10 of 11

Waxleaf Privet

Texture-rich waxleaf privet has large, evergreen leaves. When pruned into a topiary form it has a course texture that is unique and pleasing in many settings. Its glossy green foliage is striking in a container or in a landscape setting. Due to its large leaves, waxleaf privet is best suited to large topiary sculptures.

Light: Grow in full sun to part shade.

Soil: Plant these evergreen trees in well-drained soil. They tolerate a variety of soil conditions.

Care: Waxleaf privet is one of the easiest care topiary trees. It thrives in a multitude of adverse growing conditions. Water it deeply during periods of drought and prune as needed to maintain shape.

Zones: 7–11

11 of 11

Dwarf Brush Cherry

A topiary shrub for warm regions, brush cherry has colorful bronze-red new foliage. The foliage turns green in summer and remains on the plant year-round. Brush cherry tolerates pruning well and can be clipped into a variety of forms. It makes especially pleasing pyramids and spirals.

Light: Plant in full sun to part shade.

Soil: Brush cherry grows best in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.

Care: Fertilize plants by spreading a 2-inch-thick layer of compost over the root zone annually in spring. Water these topiary trees regularly and deeply during the first growing season to establish a strong root system. Prune in spring after colorful new foliage turns green.

Zones: 9–11

Related Article

How to Grow and Care for Goldfish Plant

How to Grow and Care for Goldfish Plant

They won't grow snack crackers, but goldfish plants are worth adding to your collection. Learn how to care for these unique plants.
14 Best Indoor Palm Plants for Adding a Tropical Touch to Your Home

14 Best Indoor Palm Plants for Adding a Tropical Touch to Your Home

Liven up any room with these indoor palm plants that are easy to grow.
5 Expert Tips for Helping Hummingbirds During Heat Waves

5 Expert Tips for Helping Hummingbirds During Heat Waves

Help hummingbirds during heat waves with these expert tips on maintaining feeders properly and providing water and shade.
9 Creative Tree Stump Ideas for Adding a Natural Touch to Your Garden

9 Creative Tree Stump Ideas for Adding a Natural Touch to Your Garden

These tree stump ideas are an easy way to turn an eyesore into an asset. Put stumps to use as rustic planters, pedestals, and more.
7 Genius Garden Design Ideas from an Iconic American Landscape

7 Genius Garden Design Ideas from an Iconic American Landscape

Artfully blend formal and wild with these garden design ideas from Hollister House in Connecticut.
25 Budget Small Garden Ideas for Creating a Stunning Space Without Breaking the Bank

25 Budget Small Garden Ideas for Creating a Stunning Space Without Breaking the Bank

These budget small garden ideas will help you affordably create a gorgeous outdoor space.
25 Garden Decor Ideas for Taking Your Yard from Drab to Fab

25 Garden Decor Ideas for Taking Your Yard from Drab to Fab

Enhance your outdoor oasis with these garden decor ideas for various styles, budgets, and landscape sizes.
How to Plant and Grow Clivia

How to Plant and Grow Clivia

Find out how to grow clivia to enjoy its vibrant blooms in your home or garden.
6 Surprising Benefits of Planting Trees

6 Surprising Benefits of Planting Trees

Learn how planting trees can transform your environment and improve your quality of life.
5 Tips for Using Gardenia Fertilizer Correctly to Maximize Those Fragrant Flowers

5 Tips for Using Gardenia Fertilizer Correctly to Maximize Those Fragrant Flowers

These must-know tips on using gardenia fertilizer will boost your plant's flower power.
6 Must-Know Tips for Pruning Crape Myrtle Trees Correctly

6 Must-Know Tips for Pruning Crape Myrtle Trees Correctly

Use these tips on pruning crape myrtle to ensure you trim with precision, enhancing the health and vibrancy of this flowering tree.
9 Must-Know Tips for Pruning Hibiscus Plants

9 Must-Know Tips for Pruning Hibiscus Plants

Smart pruning spurs hibiscus plants to unfurl hundreds of eye-catching tropical flowers. These tips will take the guesswork out of pruning.
This Prairie Garden Plan Spotlights Pretty Native Plants

This Prairie Garden Plan Spotlights Pretty Native Plants

Summer heat and drought won’t faze the tough native plants in this prairie garden plan. Plus, pollinators love their flowers.
6 Soil Amendments That Will Help You Grow Healthier Plants

6 Soil Amendments That Will Help You Grow Healthier Plants

Learning when and why to use these soil amendments will improve your gardening results and save you money.
4 Must-Follow Steps to Keep Your Potted Plants Watered While You’re on Vacation

4 Must-Follow Steps to Keep Your Potted Plants Watered While You’re on Vacation

You may be away, but that doesn’t mean your outdoor pots and hanging baskets have to be left high and dry: Follow these simple actions to keep planted plants watered while you’re on vacation or traveling.
8 Tips for Getting Rid of Squash Bugs Naturally Before They Devour Your Plants

8 Tips for Getting Rid of Squash Bugs Naturally Before They Devour Your Plants

Find out how to get rid of squash bugs with these natural pest control tips, plus learn how to identify these insects and their damage.
How to Get Rid of Skunks in Your Yard Without Getting Sprayed

How to Get Rid of Skunks in Your Yard Without Getting Sprayed

Skunks eat garden pests, but their defensive spray can cause a problem for humans and pets that startle them. Find out how to get rid of skunks in your yard safely.
11 Budget-Friendly Front Yard Landscaping Ideas

11 Budget-Friendly Front Yard Landscaping Ideas

These helpful front yard landscaping ideas will boost your curb appeal without emptying your wallet.
How to Kill Weeds Naturally Using Organic Products

How to Kill Weeds Naturally Using Organic Products

Here's how to kill weeds naturally and organically in flower beds without any chemicals or products that will harm your plants.
Your Seasonal Lawn-Care Schedule for the Midwest

Your Seasonal Lawn-Care Schedule for the Midwest

Use our lawn-care schedule to help you maintain a beautiful yard all year long. You'll learn exactly when to mow, aerate, fertilize, and overseed.