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In this guide to tree forms we will discuss the various shapes and sizes that trees can be purchased in! Some of our most popular forms include standard trees, Trees can be purchased in various size and shapes, referred to as forms. Photinia for example can be gown as a multi-stem hedge, ornamental 1/4 standard tree, a pleached tree for screening or in standard form it will mature into a large beautiful centre piece.
Standard Trees
Standard trees feature a straight, single trunk that is clear of branches up to about 1.8-2m. Trees with this form are ideal for creating privacy screens against neighbouring properties, obscuring overlooked windows, and hiding less desirable views from your property. To ensure your chosen tree develops into an excellent standard form, it’s important to select one with a strong, straight stem and that is provided in a sufficiently large pot.
Pleached Trees
Pleached trees are a fantastic option if you’re looking to achieve a more instant impact in your landscape design. These trees feature a clear stem, usually between 1.8 and 2 meters high, and a framework of flexible shoots and foliage. They are particularly favoured for establishing narrow, elevated screens above fences or garden walls, offering both privacy and visual appeal. Beyond screening, pleached trees can also provide welcome shade and are often a key element in creative garden layouts. It’s interesting to note that the pleaching technique isn’t limited to a standard shape; trees can also be trained into various other forms like cubes, parasols, and globes, offering even greater design flexibility.
Half-standard Trees
Half standard trees have a single central trunk that is clear of branches up to approximately 90-110cm from the base. They are typically available with heads of foliage measuring 40-50cm. This foliage offers versatility; clip to maintain a neat, small, and globular shape, or grow out into a larger sphere or small tree.
With their classic and attractive appearance, half standard trees are an excellent choice for a variety of landscaping purposes. They are ideal for placing beside doorways or for enhancing drives, walkways, and paths. Their form is also perfect for adding height and visual appeal to smaller gardens. When planted in a row along a low wall, they can also create a unique, low, raised hedge.
Quarter-standard Trees
Quarter standard trees feature a single, central trunk that is clear of branches up to approximately 50-100cm from the base. Like 1/2 standards, they are highly decorative and can be planted to make an attractive feature by doorways or to add height and visual interest to other areas of the garden.
Feathered Trees
Feathered trees have a single, straight trunk with evenly spaced lateral branches that extend from the base of the tree all the way up. These trees are an excellent choice for those who appreciate natural form and structure, particularly if the goal is to establish a windbreak, noise barrier, or screen that provides coverage from ground level rather than above a fence.
Multi-stemmed
Multi-stem trees are a single plant, with a number of stems growing from a single trunk near the ground. The wider base and multiple stems makes multi-stemmed trees particularly well-suited to natural screening!
We hope this guide to tree forms has clearly explained the variety of shapes and sizes our trees are available in. For further details, please feel free to browse our comprehensive tree catalogue, visit our nursery in person, or contact us via email. We are always happy to provide additional information, pictures, and quotes if you ask for them!
