What makes a tree formal?

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Maackia Eau Claire, WI Feb 06, 2007

I've seen the term "formal" used to describe the habit of various trees. Actually, if memory serves me correct it's typically used for conifers and specifically spruce. My sister borrowed (and has failed to return in a timely manner) my Dirr book, but I think he describes Picea orientalis as being "extremely formal," or something close to that. So, what exactly are the characteristics of a tree's habit that would make it formal? Is it the uniformity of branching? Can a multi-stemmed tree be considered formal? Is this unique to evergreens, or are there deciduous trees that would warrant this description. Finally, is it a landscaping faux paus to plant a formal tree in an informal garden, and what are the penalties for this transgression?

Informally yours,

Maackia

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Resin Northumberland, United Kingdom(Zone 9a) Feb 06, 2007

I'd say it is symmetry that makes a tree formal

Resin

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ecrane3 Dublin, CA(Zone 9a) Feb 06, 2007

I agree, when I think of formal, the first thing that comes to mind is symmetrical shape, which could be achieved naturally through the way the tree grows, or artificially by pruning. I think plants that naturally take on a formal shape are going to tend to be single-trunked evergreens for the most part, but I'm sure there are exceptions to that. As far as planting a formal tree in an informal garden, I don't see a problem with that if it's a tree that has a naturally formal/symmetrical shape, but an artificially pruned lollipop/meatball shaped tree would probably look out of place.

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claypa West Pottsgrove, PA(Zone 6b) Feb 07, 2007

Lombardy poplars come to mind, for 'formal' deciduous trees.

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David_Vermont Orwell, VT Feb 07, 2007

I love the cypress trees that Vincent van Gogh painted in several of his paintings. I have been searching for a tree that would have a growth habit like these cypresses but would be able to live in a warming zone 4. I'm drawn to their formal look which isn't too 'tight'. I have a Juniperus communis that was sold as a Swedish Juniper that is now about 10 feet tall after about 13 years. My plan is to plant a number of these near the house in the area of our flower and vegetable gardens. Should I be considering other types of evergreens?

David

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Resin Northumberland, United Kingdom(Zone 9a) Feb 07, 2007

Hi David,

Quoting:
I have been searching for a tree that would have a growth habit like these cypresses but would be able to live in a warming zone 4

Difficult, because snow and ice play havoc with this shape of branching - put some weight on the erect stems, they splay out badly, and don't easily return to parallel after the thaw.

Resin

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