An obelisk is a wonderful addition to the average UK garden for a long list of reasons. This beautiful and rather elegant support structure delivers instant drama to any planting scheme, providing a feast for the senses as well as a great base to add interest vertically.
Obelisks are particularly popular in more compact gardens. But, whatever the size or shape of your outdoor space, an obelisk can serve as a stunning focal point all year round. Even after foliage has died off, the obelisk itself is a lovely, sculptural feature that really makes a space. An obelisk is also practically perfect, supporting climbing plants, keeping foliage tidy and manageable, and encouraging the airflow that keeps plant life healthy and happy.
If we’ve convinced you that adding an obelisk is the right next step for your spring garden, you’re going to need some plants to fill it. Read on to discover your top plant choices for obelisks!
A classic climber that gets a lot of love is clematis. This plant species provides a variety of colours and flower types to choose from. Whatever your pick, you’re promised a vibrant display that you - and local wildlife! - will adore.
Clematis is known for being easy to take care of, and your new obelisk will make the task even simpler, with pruning quick and effortless. Position to clematis obelisk in full sun to partial shade for the best growing conditions.
Romantic, fragrant and beautiful, no cottage garden should be without climbing roses, and an obelisk is the perfect base for your display.
There’s still time to plant your climbing roses – generally you have from late winter to spring to get this task done. Position your obelisk in a sunny yet sheltered spot to create something that’ll wow. Don’t forget to time pruning and feeding just right for the healthiest blooms too.
If you want a blooming obelisk fast, sweet peas are great picks. It’s a climbing plant that’s as sweet smelling as its name, and loves a position in full sun. A sweet pea obelisk is also easy to maintain, just tie in and deadhead for colourful displays that keep returning.
From sweet peas to something actually edible, runner beans are great additions to garden obelisks, and now is the perfect time to plant them. For foliage that’s a little fancier, try French beans instead, they’re tender, slender, sweeter and utterly tasty.
Take a look at our amazing Obelisks perfect for your plant of choice.