The well-thought out grouping and planting of plants to make the most of their shape and form is fundamental in creating a satisfying year-round design in the garden. Indeed, some of the most successful gardens depend entirely on plants used in this way, rather than merely on colour, scent or texture.

Each plant has a natural growth form and silhouette that may change as it matures and grows. Some plants may also be pruned to create a different growth form, for example by coppicing to provide young, coloured shoots on willows (Salix) for winter display. The shapes and sizes of young plants in a garden centre may not give you an accurate indication of their adult form, so it can be a good idea to visit gardens or parks to view more mature specimens whenever possible.

Combining plants with different shapes and forms provides endless possibilities for inventing interesting, well-balanced schemes. For example, a spiky plant placed next to a domed one (provided that their respective colours are reasonably harmonious), is likely to enhance the impact and drama of both. Many perennials and shrubs have a rounded, hummocky shape, which may be contrasted with different forms, such as prostrate ground-cover plants or a columnar tree, for extra interest. Low, bushy plants may be used in front of shrubs with bare, basal stems to hide the base.

The shape and form of plants is important at all times of the year, but perhaps especially so in winter, when the bare bones of a garden can be most easily seen. Even in summer, however, it should be possible to discern the different shapes of plant groupings in borders.