Your Guide to the Best Trees for Espalier and Popular Plants for Espalier
The practice of espalier—training trees or shrubs to grow flat against a wall or fence—is both artistic and practical. This centuries-old method transforms ordinary fruit trees into elegant, space-saving structures that produce abundant fruit in narrow spaces. Perfect for urban gardens or decorative borders, espalier trees bring beauty and productivity together in one design.
If you’re curious which plants for espalier are the easiest to care for and most rewarding, this guide covers the best trees for espalier, the most effective espalier techniques, and ideal espalier dates for pruning and training to help your garden thrive.
What Is Espalier?
Espalier (pronounced “es-PAL-yay”) is an ancient horticultural technique where fruit trees or ornamentals are trained to grow in flat, structured shapes along a central stem. Supported by wires or trellises, these trained trees grow horizontally or diagonally to form patterns such as the horizontal cordon or Belgian fence.
Dating back to ancient Rome and popularized in 17th-century Europe, espalier combines beauty and function—allowing gardeners to grow fruit bearing plants even in limited space. To see it in action, watch the Espalier Video Tutorial, where Tricia demonstrates pruning and shaping techniques for espalier fruit trees.
Why Grow Espalier Trees?
Espalier gardening offers both aesthetic and practical rewards:
- Space Efficiency: Perfect for narrow spaces or small gardens.
- High Fruit Production: Directs plant energy toward fruiting instead of vertical growth.
- Better Air Circulation: Reduces disease by keeping branches well-spaced.
- Easier Harvesting: All the fruit grows within easy reach.
- Decorative Appeal: Turns plain walls into stunning living art.
Best Trees for Espalier
The best trees for espalier are those that are easy to train, flexible, and produce fruit close to the branches.
Apple Trees
Apple trees are the most classic choice for espalier fruit. They respond beautifully to pruning and reward gardeners with consistent fruit production. Their adaptability makes them ideal for beginners. Explore different cultivars in the Apple Trees Collection.
Pear Trees
Pear trees are another favorite because they naturally form neat shapes and thrive in cooler climates. Their graceful branches are perfect for horizontal cordon or Belgian fence styles. Browse organic varieties in the Pear Trees Collection.
Fig Trees
In warmer regions, fig trees are excellent candidates. They’re easy to train and adapt well to being trained to grow against a wall or fence. Their broad leaves and sweet fruit add a Mediterranean touch to any garden. See available types in the Fig Trees Collection.
Other Plants for Espalier
Not all espalier gardens focus on fruit. Evergreen shrubs such as camellias, pyracantha, or magnolias can also be trained trees for decorative purposes. These create living privacy screens and year-round greenery. For design ideas, explore the Gallery of Espalier Forms.
Common Espalier Designs
Different styles suit different trees and spaces:
- Horizontal Cordon: Simple and ideal for apple or pear trees.
- Belgian Fence: A crisscross pattern of trained trees forming diamond shapes.
- Fan Shape: Great for flexible trees like figs or peaches.
- Candelabra Form: A striking, formal pattern with upward-reaching branches.
These patterns not only shape your espalier trees beautifully but also improve light exposure and air circulation, which boosts fruit production during the growing season.
Conclusion
The practice of espalier is a timeless way to make the most of limited space while creating an elegant garden feature. With patience and regular pruning, trained trees like apples, pears, and figs can thrive in narrow spaces, producing abundant fruit bearing crops while enhancing your landscape.
Whether you want a productive wall of espalier fruit trees or a decorative Belgian fence made of evergreens, these easy to train plants offer a perfect blend of form, function, and beauty for any garden.