Description

Parasol trees, also known as roof shape, roof top, or umbrella form are single stemmed trees that have their central leaders cut away to leave a crown. The remaining lateral branches are then trained over a bamboo or steel frame to create a horizontal screen, giving an umbrella or parasol effect.

Parasol trees are fast emerging as a very popular choice to add structure and create natural garden architecture. As living structures, they offer year-round interest by constantly changing through the seasons. In situations where small courtyard or town gardens are overlooked from a higher vantage point, they offer privacy to those seated beneath them.

Deciduous trees are the most popular, as they allow light to pass through in the winter, while offering cover in the summer. Parasol trees are typically planted in a square or rectangular pattern. The stem heights start at around 230 centimetres, which allows good head clearance below the canopy.

Up lights are regularly used to illuminate the trees at night. In the winter months while in the comfort of a warm home, lighting can be used to illuminate the bare stems and the canopies of deciduous parasol trees to great effect.

Parasol trees are often placed strategically about the garden or landscape, punctuating paths and walkways and overlooking little seated areas. Particularly in urban areas where the outside space can be overlooked, a parasol tree can offer natural shade to a seating area as well as much-valued privacy from neighbours. Parasol Trees can be used to great effect to create a privacy canopy over an outdoor dining area.