Specimen shurbs

Specimen shurbs are trees that are deliberately placed on their own, so that they stand out fully. This individual positioning creates a powerful visual statement within a garden or landscape. Specimen shurbs attract attention, give direction to the design and often act as a natural anchor point.

At Smits Nursery, we supply a wide range of specimen shurbs in different types, sizes and shapes. From flowering trees to evergreen and characterful specimens. Always with a focus on quality, appearance and applicability within professional garden and greenery projects.

A tree that carries the design

Types of specimen shurbs

Specimen shurbs in different species

Specimen shurbs are available in a variety of species, each with its own character, crown shape and seasonal experience. They are selected for appearance, size and the role they play within the design.

Whether an impressive tree in a villa garden or a compact specimen in a city garden: specimen shurbs give any outdoor space identity.

Most popular species

Range of specimen shurbs

Our specimen shurbs

Within our range, you will find specimen shurbs in various forms: standard, multi-stemmed, flowering or evergreen. All trees are grown and maintained with care, so that they are in optimal condition upon delivery.

During the planting season (roughly from October to May), specimen shurbs are available from the open ground, delivered with a strong wire rootball. Outside the planting season, containerised trees offer additional flexibility, as they can be planted all year round.

Platanus hispanica

Why specimen shurbs

Visual calm and focus in design

Specimen shurbs are used to create accents and mark zones within a garden or landscape. Through their size, crown shape and positioning, they create tranquillity, balance and hierarchy in the design.

Specimen shurbs are particularly suitable for:

  • villa gardens and estates
  • city gardens with a distinctive look
  • parks and representative outdoor areas


In terms of maintenance, this varies by species, but in general, specimen shurbs do not require intensive topiary. Most species grow well in sun to semi-shade and have average water requirements.

Options

Shape, size and application

Specimen shurbs are available in a variety of shapes and sizes, depending on the desired look and scale of the project. They can be used as:

  • eye-catcher in an open space
  • marking of an entrance or line of sight
  • connecting element between architecture and greenery


At Smits, we are happy to help select the right tree, tailored to design, location and future image.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions about specimen shurbs

Specimen shurbs often raise questions about choice, application and maintenance. Below, we answer the most frequently asked questions from garden and green space project practitioners.
A solitary tree is a tree deliberately placed on its own, so that its shape, crown and appearance are fully visible.
Specimen shurbs are widely used as eye-catchers in gardens, parks and representative outdoor spaces.
Yes, provided the right species and size are chosen. Compact specimen shurbs are very suitable for urban gardens.
Containerised trees can be planted year-round. Full-ground trees are mainly available during the planting season.
This varies by species. In general, specimen shurbs require little topiary and mainly regular maintenance.
Yes, many solitary trees are also available in a multi-stemmed form. Whereas a solitary tree often has one clear trunk, multi-stem trees branch into several trunks right from the base.
Flowering trees such as Magnolia and trees with autumn colour such as Liquidambar and Acer provide strong seasonal experiences.
The final size depends on the species. We are happy to advise on the right choice per location and design.
Yes, selection at the nursery is possible and often advisable to properly assess form and appearance.
Our specimen shurbs are grown with care and selected for quality, size and appearance, so that they can be reliably used within professional projects.

Looking together at what fits your project?

Do you already know exactly what you need for your project, or would you like to spar a bit more? We are happy to help you make the right choice, tailored to your needs, planning and the character of the project.

Would you prefer to see the trees in real life first?

You are welcome to visit our nursery!