In the sixteenth century, during the period of the Renaissance, topiary was hugely popular in the royal courts of France. It was King Louis IV who ordered Andre le Notre to create the magnificent gardens at Versailles, just outside Paris. The imposing results set the standards for hundreds of years to come, and it is small wonder, then, that French terms are often encountered in topiary. The Etagère, or 'staged' form, is one of the most diverse yet popular styles, with the overall shape and complexity determined as much by the gardener's imagination as by convention.

Typically the general shape is conical, although the lower of the two specimens illustrated here has a trapezoid base. Then, at points rising through the height of the plant, steps are cut back in towards the stem. This achieves the staged effect that gives the style its name. The number and shape of these stages varies, with larger specimens allowing a greater number.

Plant Species

All the more popular topiary species can be used to create an Etagère, with Yew and bay perhaps the best, although Ilex (Holly) can also be employed.