Vines For Espaliers

Boston Ivy

• This is the plant responsible for elite U.S. colleges and universities being called "Ivy League" schools. This vigorous deciduous vine decorates them thoroughly. Boston ivy (Parthenocissus tricuspidata) is a good choice for covering a large blank wall with an eye-catching espalier design. Vines grow rapidly and easily, even in poor soils, though they do best in rich, well-watered soils. Leaves turn scarlet in autumn, and birds love the dark blue berries.

Creeping Fig

• The young foliage of creeping fig (Ficus pumila) is very small, delicate and heart-shaped, though leaves become long, leathery and glossy with maturity. Creeping fig is an evergreen shade-loving vine that can grow 20 feet -- or farther -- up walls. North-facing walls are best for creeping fig. As vines age, stems and trunks get woodier. Pruning vines back will regenerate the juvenile foliage form.

Lady Banks Rose

• This dramatic antique climbing rose makes a spectacular once-a-year show, the perfect romantic espalier statement for the side of a garage or along a tall garden wall. The yellow Lady Banks rose (Rosa banksiae "Lutea") is a thornless yellow double-flowered rose originally from China. Unlike many roses, Lady Banks is evergreen. Grow it in full sun for healthy plants and the best bloom, and prune regularly to keep it in bounds.

Star Jasmine

• This vigorous easy-care vine is evergreen in many climates. It produces abundant intensely scented flowers nonstop from summer into fall. Known also as Confederate jasmine, moderately fast-growing star jasmine (Trachelospermum jasminoides) isn't a true jasmine. It does well in partial shade, but also grows well in full sun. Tie vines to the training support. Like all espaliered plants, star jasmine will need regularly pruning attention to maintain its form. Otherwise, this plant is nearly problem-free.