Further Studies of Preferred Tree Shapes

Abstract

Three studies examine preferred tree shapes in relation to theories of landscape aesthetics. Study 1 found a preference for trees with acacia-like characteristics and also showed that size preference was related to environmental context. Using different stimulus figures, Study 2 elicited a preference for trees with large canopies and short trunks. Study 3 found that preferred trees were high in value and strength on the semantic differential and also that the semantic profiles of tree forms were similar to those of geometric figures with the same underlying shape. The results add support to functional and evolutionary theories of landscape preference.