Over fifty whimsical plant sculptures greet you. Welcome to Harper’s Topiary Garden. This isn’t your average garden. It’s a living artwork created by Edna and Alex Harper. They transformed their front yard into a whimsical wonderland.
Edna Harper a resident of Mission Hills had a vision. She saw potential in a Cape honeysuckle vine. This vine had wandered into their yard from a neighbor’s garden. Edna envisioned turning those vines into elephants. Her inspiration came from travels with her husband Alex. Alex initially disagreed with the idea. He eventually relented paying for water and their gardener Pedro Duran.
For fifteen years Edna and Alex have patiently shaped over fifty plants. They used their hands. The plants are not hollow forms inside a wire cage. They are solid foliage shaped and guided as new growth appears. Their creations are inspired by their world travels. They include pyramids a dinosaur a surfer a Buddha and a menagerie of animals. There are even elephants a whale and a figure of their gardener Pedro Duran.
Edna spends three or four hours a day working on the garden. Alex helps with the taller figures. Pedro Duran assists daily. The garden is a testament to their dedication and artistry. It’s a free outdoor museum that captures the spirit of adventure and imagination. The Harpers welcome visitors. They ask that visitors admire from afar. They don’t want anyone touching or climbing their precious creations. Evening is a perfect time to visit. The setting sun casts a warm glow on the topiary figures.
Harper’s Topiary Garden is truly unique. It’s a labor of love and a testament to the power of imagination. It’s a hidden gem in San Diego well worth seeking out.