An arbor is a garden structure made of wood or metal that creates a shaded walkway or sitting area, usually covered with climbing plants like roses, grapevines, or wisteria. Picture a curved framework over a path, with vines weaving through its lattice sides and top, creating a natural tunnel of leaves and flowers.

Arbors have been popular in gardens for centuries. They turn an ordinary path into something special, a green archway that marks the entrance to a garden or frames a bench where someone might sit and read. As the plants grow thicker each season, the arbor becomes more beautiful and provides more shade.

You might also see the word spelled arbour in British English. Garden designers often place arbors at important spots: at the entrance to a rose garden, over a gate, or at the end of a path to create a destination. Some arbors are simple and practical, while others are elaborate structures that become the centerpiece of a garden. When grapevines cover an arbor, it becomes a grape arbor, providing both shade and fruit.