Skip to main content
espalier

espalier

1 9.9
A frame or trellis used to train a tree flat against a wall
  • noun
  • /ɛˈspæljər/
  • Specialized
translation icon : espaldera

Examples

  • Pear trees grow in ladders through the art of espalier, which prunes and trains a tree to grow against a flat surface rather than spread its unruly branches in three-dimensional space.

    Fiction book (1993)
  • An espalier is a great way to save space in your garden by training fruit trees to grow flat against a wall.

  • The gardener installed a wooden framework for the espalier, where he could grow his apple tree in a decorative manner.

  • For beautiful results, an espalier can be shaped into intricate designs that enhance the appearance of outdoor spaces.

Synonyms

treillage
vsespalier
  • Specialized
9.9

A wooden or metal frame of crossed strips that supports climbing plants like roses

is used to train trees flat against a surface rather than general support
trellising
vsespalier
5.5

A way to support climbing plants by training them to grow on a frame

is a fixed support used to train trees flat against a surface

Surface Forms

espalier singular
espaliers plural

Etymology

Espalier comes from French and originally meant something put 'against the wall', like a support for plants. So an espalier is a frame or trellis used to train a tree or shrub to grow flat along a wall.