A Conversation for The Torture Garden
Espalier
John the gardener says, "Free Tibet!" Started conversation Jul 22, 2005
Espalier, the art of training plants into unnatural shapes, can be a form of horticulural bondage. This usually involves removing the leader and binding lateral branches to a supporting structure, such as a fence or a trellis.
In a torture garden espalier could be used to show the plants who's boss to an extent that would make the garden visitor wince in sympathy!
Almost any woody plant can be used for espalier; but, Pyrancantha, mentioned in the Entry, makes a very good candidate. An added benefit here is that spiky branches could be trained along fences or railings. Ouch! 
JTG
Espalier
John the gardener says, "Free Tibet!" Posted Jul 22, 2005
Oops, that should be Pyracantha, aka firethorn. 
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Espalier
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