flowers for friday

ive been a little excited, since wednesday, to share todays post. its topiaries!!! miniature tree topiaries to be exact - one is an olive tree and the other a dwarf euonymus - arent they simply charming~

topiary is an ancient art, and has seen many changes and adaptations over time. the word topiary derives from the latin name of an ornamental landscape gardener, topiarus, or creator of topia(places). i love this little factoid because that is precisely what these tiny beauties are doing - creating a sense of place- like a tiny secret garden. if you are celebrating easter with a meal wouldn't these topiary down a long burlap runner mixed with naturally hued eggs be the loveliest spring tablescape. 

As you can imagine the topiary art came to america from the palace and cottage gardens of england. they came into particular favor in the colonial revival gardens of the upper class during the american renaissance 

there are loads of books and other sources of information on this wonderful tradition so you can read lots more info if your curiosity has been piqued.  

images: topiaries;cottage farm. eggs;readingmytealeaves