Pyramid shaped conifer plants
Conifers with a pyramid shaped growth habit are the most common form, closely resembling the typical shape of conifers in their natural habitats. They are an excellent way to add structure, texture and colour to your borders, whether grown as specimen plants in their own right or to act as a backdrop or ‘foil’ to showier flowering plants. They tend to be easy to grow, mainly just needing good light conditions and adequate drainage to avoid any brown patches, with foliage that may be needle-like or broad, flat and strap-shaped. Conifer seeds develop inside attractive, protective cones which will help to attract a range of birds to your garden. There are around 600 species of conifers available, so you’ll have plenty to choose from. Perhaps the best known pyramid shaped variety is the Nordman Fir, which is the most popular ‘low needle drop’ Christmas tree. Many Chamaecyparis conifers are also pyramid shaped with distinct, feathery evergreen foliage. For something more unusual, the monkey puzzle tree makes a beautiful specimen plant for large gardens, parks and open spaces with its bright green, pointed leaves held in whorls all the way along the branches.