topiary is the art of creating sculptures by clipping trees and bushes (shrubs). the shrubs used in topiary are evergreen, have small leaves, and produce dense foliage. common plants used in topiary include bay laurel, holly bushes, myrtle and privet hedges. shaped wire cages are sometimes used in modern topiary but traditional topiary depends on using special scissors with patience and a steady hand. notably, the samban-lei sekpil is the tallest topiary plant in the world.