An algorithm for sculpting trees

We present a parametric procedural method to simulate the visual nature of trees. This algorithm takes advantage of a tree's self-similarity to "sculpt" rather than "grow" a tree's architecture from its basic silhouette by filling in its bounding shape. This simple, unified tree architecture model is fast to generate (linear in the number of branch segments), straight-forward to parameterize by users (such as artists with little biological expertise) who rely on photographs or illustrations, and capable of simulating a wide variety of architectures such as bonsai, broadleaves, bushes, conifers, and palms. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.