Traditionally Topiary Balls are grown from Box plants (Buxus Sempervirens) which gives them a neat and formal appearance. However, this particular topiary ball is Hornbeam (Carpinus betulus) which is an unusual hedging plant for topiary but lends itself well to the large super-sized topiary, adding an impressive dimension and unique character to larger planting schemes and gardens.

This stunning specimen is a staggering 1.4m in diameter making it one of the largest topiary balls available on the market today. Expertly grown, nurtured and clipped over several years, this super-sized (300kg) gargantuan rootballed plant will need special handling and a deserving space, but once in situ will be a garden feature to rival all others!

Hornbeam is a popular hedging plant with similar characteristics to Beech. Its leaves differ only in that they are slightly darker green with deeper veins and serrated edges. Hornbeam like Beech also changes appearance with the seasons; the migration from summer to autumn and winter sees the leaves take on their autumnul hue with lovely warm copper and russet tones emerging as the leaves turn. Although classed as deciduous, Hornebam does retain some of its leaf cover until the new growth pushes through in the spring so will never be completely bare.

Visit our Hornbeam for further information on this species.

Maintaining and Caring for your Topiary

To keep a good shape and tight growth, topiary needs all-round and all-over light so it is incompatible with shade, although potted specimens can be rotated. Clipping should be done when the opportunity, inspiration, enthusiasm and weather all combine to make it possible - in late summer, so that there is the longest period of time (until May or June the following year) to enjoy the tightly clipped shapes. Some enthusiasts clip in early summer too but never clip too early in the year - you must make sure there is no possibility of night frosts. Always use very sharp tools and we recommend that plants are watered first before clipping which helps the cut leaves to heal quickly.

All our topiary is hardy and suitable to withstand all that our weather can throw at us but given the expense of each piece, it is our recommendation that you take particular care to protect topiary - just simple precautions like gently brushing snow off, using pointed rather than flat topped shapes where long periods of snow are normal, providing ventilated shelter from severe winds and ensuring that specimens are well watered in summer and sheltered from very strong sunshine which can burn as much as winter winds.

Free delivery is available on all orders providing they meet the minimum spend criteria for the size of box or pallet. Pallet deliveries and large box deliveries for tall plants are indicated by icons on the product table listings. Delivery costs and minimum order details for each packaging type are as follows:


There are some exceptions to the standard delivery pricing structure, which relate to deliveries to more remote areas, overseas, or extremely tall plants requiring specialist delivery - for more information see the Delivery Information Page

It's Quick! - most orders are despatched within 3-5 working days!! (Some trees can be 7-10 days see product pages for info.)

Next Day Delivery is Available - We can offer next day delivery on eligible species and sizes for an additional £12 incl VAT. Call 01257 263 873 to find out if your order is eligible.

It's Convenient - no need to wait in all day to sign, we don't need a signature (the odd, larger order may require a signature but will be delivered at a mutually agreeable time)

It's Tried & Tested - we use only couriers who have shown consistency in their efficiency & care

* Please note that delivery costs are based on the final order amount in your cart after any discounts have been applied.

Hedges Direct 12 Month Plant Guarantee

Our plants are guaranteed for 12 months after delivery subject to specific criteria. Visit our Hedges Direct Plant Guarantee Page for full details.