This paper examines the domain patterns and its relation to the macroscopic electromechanical behavior of ferroelectric solids using a theory based on homogenization and energy minimization. The domain patterns in different crystalline systems are classified, the spontaneous strain and polarization for single crystals and polycrystals are characterized, and the optimal texture of polycrystals for high-strain actuation is identified. The results also reveal why it is easy to pole PZT at compositions close to the ‘morphotropic phase boundary.’ ©2001 American Institute of Physics.