Some plants change their form as they mature. The Scotch pine begins its life with a conical form, but matures into a windswept, irregular shape when mature. However, the woody structure of a tree or shrub is also part of the texture. Fine texture is associated with small leaves and thin branches. Cotoneasters and willows are examples of finely textured plants.
Coarse texture is achieved with larger leaves and thicker, sparse branches, as on oakleaf hydrangea.
Coarse textures are more appropriate for larger landscapes, while fine textures are more appropriate in a smaller landscape. A small area can be made to look larger by using finely textured plants. Coarsely textured plants should be used as accents in the smaller landscape. SIZE Landscapes should have plants of different sizes for added interest. Taller plants normally form a backdrop for progressively shorter plants.