The pom pom tree, a specialized form of topiary, introduces a sculptural element into the modern landscape. This style transforms shrubs and small trees into living architecture by meticulously clipping the foliage into distinct, spherical masses. The resulting form, sometimes called a “poodle cut,” offers a striking contrast to the organic shapes of the surrounding garden. Employing this technique creates a unique aesthetic where plants function as geometric art pieces. The tiered structure of the pom pom tree suits both formal and contemporary settings.
Identifying Suitable Plants and Styles
The pom pom style is a demanding technique that requires selecting plants with specific horticultural characteristics. Suitable candidates are typically evergreen species with a dense growth habit and small leaf or needle size. Small foliage allows for the tight, clean lines necessary to define the spherical structure without the resulting cuts appearing ragged or bruised.
Evergreen conifers are popular choices for this tiered form, including various species of Juniper (Juniperus), Scotch Pine (Pinus sylvestris), and Cypress (Chamaecyparis). These plants tolerate the heavy, repeated shearing required to maintain the shape once established. Broadleaf evergreens also work well, such as Boxwood (Buxus sempervirens) and Japanese Holly (Ilex crenata), due to their high tolerance for pruning and fine-textured leaves.
The technique involves aggressive removal of foliage to expose the underlying branch structure or trunk. Fast-growing plants like Leyland Cypress (× Cuprocyparis leylandii) are suitable for quick initial shaping. However, many conifers do not regenerate growth from old wood, so cutting back into the brown sections must be avoided. In contrast, traditional topiary plants like Yew (Taxus) and Boxwood can often be rejuvenated through hard pruning in early spring, as they possess dormant buds that will sprout from old wood.
Creating and Maintaining the Pom Pom Shape
Establishing the pom pom structure requires a staged approach starting with a plant featuring a strong central stem or main trunk. The first step involves selecting the branches that will form the spherical heads. Remove all other side growth along the trunk to the desired height of the lowest sphere. This process exposes the stem, creating the illusion of floating green balls.
The remaining foliage is shaped into distinct spheres using sharp, sterilized tools, such as precision hand pruners and hedge shears. Making clean cuts minimizes damage to the plant tissue and promotes quicker healing. Some professionals utilize a circular wire guide or template to ensure symmetry and consistent size across the various poms, trimming away growth that extends outside the guide.
Ongoing maintenance is necessary to preserve the tight, defined form. For many evergreens, maintenance pruning is best performed after the initial flush of new growth has hardened, typically around mid-June. This timing removes the soft tips, encouraging a denser, more compact outer layer of foliage.
Pruning should stay within the green, active growth zone of the pom pom. Cutting too deeply into the older, inner wood can create unsightly holes, especially in junipers and cypresses. Thinning out interior branches improves air circulation and light penetration, which helps prevent disease and ensures the foliage remains healthy and dense. Neglecting the plant will quickly cause the spheres to revert to a shaggy, natural shape.
Integrating Pom Pom Trees into Garden Designs
Pom pom trees provide year-round structure and geometric precision. A single, large specimen can be strategically placed as a focal point in a lawn or mixed border to establish formality. Their unique silhouette makes them instantly noticeable, contrasting starkly with softer plantings.
For structured designs, these topiaries are effective when used to flank entrances, gates, or the corners of a home, establishing visual symmetry. They can also be planted in a linear arrangement to line a walkway or driveway, where the repeated spherical forms create a rhythmic, formal procession. Using them in matching containers offers versatility, allowing them to define patio spaces or temporary seasonal displays.
When selecting companion plants, choose varieties that contrast with the smooth, hard texture of the pom poms. Low-growing groundcovers or ornamental grasses with fine, flowing textures and soft colors create contrast beneath the rigid structure. Perennials like Salvia or Lavender offer complementary color and a looser form that highlights the clean, clipped geometry. Grouping the topiaries in odd numbers, such as three or five, reinforces the sculptural quality.