Finding the right shrubs for privacy involves balancing fast growth, dense foliage, low maintenance, and aesthetic appeal. The Highlander Boxwood stands out as an all-around top choice for its versatility and classic look, while the Brighter Blooms Arborvitae Green Giant offers rapid coverage for large spaces. However, tradeoffs include maintenance needs and growth speed. Some options grow quickly but may require regular trimming, whereas others provide dense coverage but grow more slowly. Keep reading for a detailed breakdown of these options to find the best fit for your privacy needs.
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Key Takeaways
- Fast-growing options like Green Giant Arborvitae deliver quick privacy but may need more frequent pruning.
- Evergreen shrubs such as Privets and Boxwoods provide year-round coverage with minimal maintenance when properly cared for.
- Size and growth rate are critical tradeoffs; larger plants offer instant privacy but come with higher costs and planting effort.
- Some shrubs, like Podocarpus, are suitable for indoor and outdoor use, adding flexibility in placement.
- Choosing the right shrub depends on your climate, desired height, and maintenance willingness, affecting long-term satisfaction.
| shrubs for privacy | Height | Plant Type | Quantity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 Highlander Boxwood | 6–7 ft | Evergreen shrub | 6 plants |
| 15 Schip Laurel Live Plants in | 6-10 inches | Prunus Laurocerasus | 15 plants |
| Brighter Blooms Thuja Green Gi | 2-3 ft | — | — |
| Brighter Blooms Emerald Green | — | — | — |
| Podocarpus Maki in 1 Gallon Po | — | — | — |
| Green Wall Willow Privacy Tree | — | — | 10 cuttings |
| 20 Emerald Green Arborvitae Tr | 6-12 inches | Emerald Green Arborvitae | 20 plants |
| Ligustrum Waxleaf Privet | 8-10 feet | Shrub | — |
| Waxleaf Privet | 8-10 feet | Shrub | 10 plants |
| Carolina Cherry Laurel Shrub | 4-6 inches | Live plant | — |
| 10 Emerald Green Arborvitae Tr | 6-12 inches | Live Plants | 10 |
More Details on Our Top Picks
6 Highlander Boxwood – Fast-Growing Evergreen Shrub for Privacy Hedges, Screens & Borders
This bundle of 6 Highlander Boxwood plants offers a reliable, fast-growing option for creating evergreen privacy screens. Compared to the Brighter Blooms Thuja Green Giant, Highlander Boxwood provides a more refined, formal appearance, making it ideal for structured borders. Its evergreen foliage ensures privacy year-round, with minimal effort beyond regular watering and occasional pruning. A key advantage is its adaptability to zones 5–9, broadening its appeal over some alternatives limited to warmer zones. However, natural variation in size and color may require some patience for uniformity. This pick makes the most sense for homeowners seeking a quick, low-maintenance, and elegant hedging solution that can be shaped or left natural.
Pros:- Fast-growing and easy to establish
- Evergreen foliage provides year-round privacy
- Suitable for formal or natural hedge styles
- Cold-hardy and low-maintenance
Cons:- Natural size and color variation may occur
- Requires regular watering and pruning
- Limited shipping regions
Best for: Gardeners wanting a fast-establishing, formal privacy hedge with year-round greenery in USDA Zones 5–9.
Not ideal for: Those in very cold zones below 5 or seeking a very uniform, predictable appearance without variation.
- Quantity:6 plants
- Size:3.5-inch cubes
- Height:6–7 ft
- Width:2–3 ft
- Zone:USDA Zones 5–9
- Growth Rate:Fast-growing
- Plant Type:Evergreen shrub
Our verdict“This option is ideal for homeowners wanting a quick, evergreen privacy hedge with a refined look.”
15 Schip Laurel Live Plants in 2.5″ Pots – Prunus Laurocerasus Schipkaensis
With 15 plants ranging from 6 to 10 inches, the Schip Laurel offers a dense, lush option for privacy at a lower height than larger trees like the Brighter Blooms Green Giant. Its rapid growth and full sun to partial shade tolerance make it suitable for a variety of garden conditions, particularly in zones 4–8. Compared to larger evergreen options, Schip Laurel’s smaller size makes it ideal for creating a dense, layered hedge without overwhelming the space, but it requires consistent moisture and well-drained soil for optimal growth. It’s a good choice for gardeners aiming to quickly fill in gaps or for those with limited space who prefer a shrub that can be maintained at a manageable height. This makes sense for homeowners wanting a dense privacy barrier without the commitment of large trees.
Pros:- Includes 15 plants for quick coverage
- Dense foliage creates effective privacy
- Tolerant of full sun to partial shade
- Fast-growing and adaptable
Cons:- Requires consistent watering and soil management
- Limited height initially, may need time to mature
- No specific pricing info available
Best for: Homeowners seeking a dense, lower-height privacy hedge that grows quickly in zones 4–8.
Not ideal for: Those in zones outside 4–8 or looking for a tall, tree-like privacy screen from the start.
- Quantity:15 plants
- Height:6-10 inches
- Pot Size:2.5 inches
- Plant Type:Prunus Laurocerasus
- Sunlight:Full sun to partial shade
- Soil:Moist, well-drained
Our verdict“This shrub set suits those who want quick, dense coverage at a manageable height in zones 4-8.”
Brighter Blooms Thuja Green Giant Arborvitae, 2-3 ft
The Green Giant Arborvitae is renowned for its astonishing growth rate of 3-5 feet per year, making it the top choice for quickly establishing tall privacy screens. Compared with the Emerald Green Arborvitae, it offers a more towering, uniform form with less pruning required, perfect for large landscapes or quick buffers. Its shipping size of 2-3 feet allows for immediate impact, but it doesn’t come in smaller sizes, which might be a drawback for tight spaces or small yards. Its rapid growth comes with less immediate control—some may prefer slower-growing options for more precise shaping. This makes it an excellent pick for those who prioritize fast results over fine-tuned aesthetics or smaller sizes.
Pros:- Fast-growing, 3-5 ft annually
- Low maintenance, no pruning needed
- Creates a lush, uniform privacy screen quickly
- Suitable for all skill levels
Cons:- Limited size options at purchase
- Cannot ship to AK, AZ, HI, OR
- Potential for overgrowth if not maintained
Best for: Property owners needing a tall, fast-growing privacy hedge in large or open spaces, especially in zones supporting its growth.
Not ideal for: Gardeners with limited space or those seeking a low-maintenance, slow-growth hedge.
- Height:2-3 ft
- Growth Rate:3-5 ft per year
- Type:Evergreen Arborvitae
Our verdict“This makes the most sense for those who want rapid privacy in a large-scale landscape and are comfortable with fast growth.”
Brighter Blooms Emerald Green Arborvitae, 1-2 Feet – Live Plant
The Emerald Green Arborvitae offers a neat, compact size of 1-2 feet, making it suitable for small yards or as a quick-to-establish border. While it won’t provide instant privacy like the Green Giant, its adaptable size makes it easier to position in tight spaces, and it requires minimal pruning to maintain a tidy appearance. Compared to larger shrubs, it’s better suited for gardeners who want a manageable, low-impact privacy solution that can be integrated into existing landscape features. Its shipping restrictions mean it’s less accessible in some regions. This is an ideal choice for those needing immediate, modest screening without the expense or effort of larger trees.
Pros:- Compact size for small spaces
- Low-maintenance and easy to prune
- Adapts well to various soil and weather conditions
- Provides year-round privacy
Cons:- Small size may not meet immediate privacy needs
- Limited height may require multiple plants for full coverage
- No shipping to AK, AZ, HI, OR
Best for: Gardeners with limited space seeking a manageable, immediate privacy shrub that’s easy to care for.
Not ideal for: Those looking for a tall, long-term privacy barrier or with large open spaces needing quick coverage.
- Size:1-2 feet
- Type:Evergreen Arborvitae
- Planting Zone:Not specified
- Shipping Restrictions:No shipping to AK, AZ, HI, OR
Our verdict“This shrub is perfect for small yards or garden beds where space is tight but privacy is still desired.”
Podocarpus Maki in 1 Gallon Pot – Evergreen Hedge Plant for Outdoor and Indoor Use
The Podocarpus Maki stands out for its upright, columnar growth habit, reaching 8-10 feet tall and 3-4 feet wide, making it a versatile privacy barrier in zones 7–11. Its dense dark green foliage creates a natural, elegant screen, and its drought tolerance reduces ongoing care needs. Compared to traditional arborvitae, Podocarpus offers a more refined look and better resistance to pollution and pests, but it’s limited to warmer zones, which restricts its geographic appeal. Its minimal maintenance and adaptability make it ideal for busy homeowners or those seeking a resilient hedge. However, it requires well-draining soil and isn’t suitable for colder climates, limiting its use for some.
Pros:- Year-round evergreen foliage
- Low-maintenance and drought-tolerant
- Resistant to pests, pollution, and disease
- Adds a refined, columnar form to landscapes
Cons:- Does not ship to CA or AZ
- Requires well-draining soil
- Limited zones restrict placement
Best for: Homeowners in zones 7–11 wanting a low-maintenance, drought-tolerant privacy hedge with an elegant appearance.
Not ideal for: Gardeners outside zones 7-11 or those seeking a fast-growing hedge in colder climates.
- Size:1 gallon
- Mature Height:8-10 feet
- Mature Width:3-4 feet
- Zones:7-11
- Sunlight:Full sun to partial shade
- Maintenance:Low
Our verdict“This shrub suits those in warmer zones seeking a low-maintenance, elegant privacy hedge that endures drought and pollution.”
Green Wall Willow Privacy Tree Cuttings – Fast Growing Hedge for Privacy & Windbreaks (10 Cuttings)
This option stands out for its ultra-fast growth, making it ideal for quickly establishing privacy screens or windbreaks. Compared with the slower-growing arborvitae, these willow cuttings can create a dense barrier within a season, but they require consistent pruning to prevent overgrowth and spreading. They are best suited for larger properties where space is available and quick results are needed. While easy to plant directly from cuttings, their aggressive spreading can be a drawback for smaller yards or those seeking low-maintenance solutions. Fast growth and easy planting are key strengths, but regular pruning and space considerations are tradeoffs. Perfect for homeowners wanting rapid privacy with minimal initial effort, but less suited for those prioritizing containment or low-maintenance landscapes.
Pros:- Fastest establishing privacy screen among options
- Easy to plant from cuttings with minimal effort
- Adaptable to many soil types and climates
Cons:- Requires regular pruning to maintain shape and prevent spread
- Can spread aggressively if left unmanaged
Best for: Property owners needing a quick privacy barrier and willing to manage growth regularly
Not ideal for: Small gardens or those seeking low-spread, low-maintenance hedges
- Quantity:10 cuttings
- Growth Rate:Ultra fast
- Use:Privacy screens, windbreaks, borders
- Planting Distance:2-3 feet apart
- Hardiness:Adaptable to many soil types and climates
Our verdict“This pick makes the most sense for those needing rapid privacy and willing to handle ongoing maintenance.”
20 Emerald Green Arborvitae Trees/Shrubs – 6-12″ Tall Live Plants – Thuja occidentalis ‘Smaragd’ (20 Pack)
This pack delivers impressive, dense privacy with 20 young arborvitae that grow to 6-12 inches tall, making it suitable for early-stage privacy hedges. Compared with the faster-growing Privet, these evergreens offer a more permanent, low-maintenance solution once established, thanks to their natural pyramid shape that needs little pruning. They are better suited for gardeners wanting a reliable, year-round hedge but are limited in height at the start, requiring patience for full maturity. Shipping as bareroot plants means careful planting is essential, and their slower early growth may delay full privacy. Dense, year-round greenery and minimal pruning make them excellent for long-term landscapes, though initial growth is slow. Ideal for those seeking a stable, low-maintenance evergreen hedge, but less so for quick privacy needs.
Pros:- Creates dense, impenetrable privacy year-round
- Natural pyramid shape requires no pruning
- Vibrant green foliage enhances landscape aesthetics
Cons:- Limited height at planting, needing time to mature
- Ships bareroot, requiring careful planting and watering
Best for: Gardeners prioritizing a durable, evergreen privacy hedge with little ongoing fuss
Not ideal for: Homeowners needing immediate privacy or quick hedge establishment
- Quantity:20 plants
- Height:6-12 inches
- Plant Type:Emerald Green Arborvitae
- Scientific Name:Thuja occidentalis ‘Smaragd’
- Shipping:Bareroot
Our verdict“This makes the most sense for those seeking a durable, low-maintenance evergreen privacy hedge over time.”
Ligustrum Waxleaf Privet – 15 Live Plants – Evergreen Privacy Hedge
This shrub excels in creating an effectively dense and fast-growing privacy hedge reaching 8-10 feet, with glossy dark green foliage and fragrant white flowers. Compared to the smaller, less mature Privet in 2-inch pots, this larger batch offers quicker coverage and privacy. It’s especially suitable for gardeners willing to prune regularly to maintain a formal shape or to develop topiary. Its adaptability to different soil and light conditions makes it versatile, but it requires consistent watering during establishment and pruning 2-3 times annually to keep it tidy. Its fast growth is a plus for quick privacy, yet the need for ongoing maintenance can be a downside for those seeking a more natural, low-effort hedge. Fast growth and flexibility are key benefits, but ongoing pruning is a tradeoff.
Pros:- Rapid growth provides quick privacy
- Versatile for shaping into topiary or screens
- Low-maintenance with pruning and watering
Cons:- Requires regular pruning to maintain shape
- Needs consistent watering during establishment
- May be semi-evergreen or deciduous depending on climate
Best for: Homeowners wanting a fast, shapable hedge that can be maintained as formal or topiary style
Not ideal for: Those preferring minimal upkeep or a more natural look without regular pruning
- Plant Type:Shrub
- Height:8-10 feet
- Foliage:Glossy dark green and bright green
- Bloom Color:Creamy-white
- Growth Rate:Fast
Our verdict“This is best suited for gardeners seeking a fast, shapable privacy hedge willing to prune regularly.”
Waxleaf Privet – 10 Live Plants in 2″ Pots – Evergreen Privacy Hedge
The Waxleaf Privet in 2-inch pots offers a flexible, fast-growing choice for creating privacy screens or borders, with plants reaching 8-10 feet. Compared with the larger, more mature Privet, these smaller pots allow for quicker initial planting and are suitable for filling gaps or starting a hedge. Their adaptability to various light and soil conditions makes them a low-maintenance option, though they may lose leaves in winter if not in a warm climate. Their easy establishment and versatility make them suitable for a variety of garden styles, but if left unpruned, they can grow quite tall and may require management. Quick start and adaptability are key strengths, but they may not suit those seeking a low-maintenance, minimalist hedge.
Pros:- Fast-growing and easy to establish
- Suitable for privacy screens and borders
- Adapts to various light and soil conditions
Cons:- Deciduous in colder climates, may lose leaves
- Can grow tall if not pruned regularly
- Requires management to maintain shape
Best for: Gardeners needing quick, flexible privacy screening with minimal fuss
Not ideal for: Gardeners seeking a low-pruning, evergreen-only hedge resistant to seasonal leaf loss
- Plant Type:Shrub
- Height:8-10 feet
- Pot Size:2 inches
- Quantity:10 plants
- Foliage:Dark green and bright green glossy leaves
Our verdict“Best for those who want a quick, adaptable privacy hedge that can be shaped as needed, accepting seasonal leaf loss in colder areas.”
Carolina Cherry Laurel Shrub – 4-6″ Tall Live Plant in 3″ Pot
This small but fast-growing shrub offers the advantage of immediate privacy, with dense, glossy green foliage that can grow 2-3 feet per year once established. Compared with the taller, more mature Privets or arborvitae, this cherry laurel provides quick coverage from a small starting point, making it ideal for instant screening. It also offers seasonal flowers and berries, adding visual interest year-round. While its quick growth is a benefit, it may require pruning to keep it tidy and prevent overgrowth, especially in smaller spaces. The limited size at purchase means patience is needed before reaching full privacy, but its adaptability and low-maintenance nature make it suitable for most gardeners. Fast establishment and year-round appeal are its main selling points, with growth management as a consideration.
Pros:- Creates quick privacy from small size
- Adds seasonal flowers and berries
- Low-maintenance and adaptable
Cons:- Will need pruning to maintain shape
- Growth rate of 2-3 feet per year requires management
Best for: Homeowners wanting rapid privacy with decorative appeal from the start
Not ideal for: Gardeners seeking a mature, fully grown hedge without early pruning
- Height:4-6 inches
- Pot Size:3 inches
- Plant Type:Live plant
- Botanical Name:Prunus caroliniana
- Growth Rate:2-3 feet per year
Our verdict“Ideal for those seeking immediate privacy and visual interest, with patience for full maturity.”
10 Emerald Green Arborvitae Trees/Shrubs – 6-12″ Tall Live Plants – Thuja occidentalis ‘Smaragd’ – Pack of 10
This pack of 10 Emerald Green Arborvitae is an excellent choice for those starting a privacy hedge with minimal fuss. Compared with larger plants like the Brighter Blooms Thuja Green Giant, these are smaller initially, which means it will take some time to develop a dense screen. However, their naturally pyramidal shape means they require no pruning, making them perfect for gardeners seeking low-maintenance options. The vibrant green foliage stays attractive year-round, providing consistent privacy. The main tradeoff is that their small size at planting can delay full privacy, especially for larger yards needing immediate coverage. This pick makes the most sense for buyers willing to wait a year or two for mature height. Because they are bareroot, careful handling is necessary during planting. They suit small to medium landscapes where patience and initial investment in planting are acceptable.
Pros:- Creates a dense, impenetrable privacy screen once established
- No pruning needed due to natural pyramid shape
- Vibrant green color remains year-round
- Affordable pack for initial planting
Cons:- Small size at planting means delayed privacy
- Bareroot plants require careful handling and proper planting
Best for: Beginners or homeowners looking for an easy-to-maintain, budget-friendly privacy hedge that can grow over time.
Not ideal for: Property owners needing immediate privacy or those with large landscapes that require quick coverage, as these start small and mature slowly.
- Quantity:10
- Height:6-12 inches
- Plant Type:Live Plants
- Species:Thuja occidentalis ‘Smaragd’
- Shipping:Bareroot
- Growth Habit:Pyramidal
- Color:Vibrant green year-round
- Maintenance:Minimal, no pruning needed
Our verdict“This option is best suited for those willing to wait a couple of years for mature privacy in small to medium landscapes.”
How We Picked
In selecting these shrubs, I prioritized factors that directly impact privacy effectiveness, such as growth rate, density, and evergreen foliage. Usability was key—how easy the plant is to grow and maintain, especially for homeowners with less gardening experience. I also considered durability across different climates, overall plant health, and value for the price. The ranking reflects a balance between immediate privacy impact and long-term ease of care, ensuring options for various needs and budgets.| shrubs for privacy | Plant Type |
|---|---|
| 6 Highlander Boxwood | Evergreen shrub |
| 15 Schip Laurel Live Plants in | Prunus Laurocerasus |
| Brighter Blooms Thuja Green Gi | — |
| Brighter Blooms Emerald Green | — |
| Podocarpus Maki in 1 Gallon Po | — |
| Green Wall Willow Privacy Tree | — |
| 20 Emerald Green Arborvitae Tr | Emerald Green Arborvitae |
| Ligustrum Waxleaf Privet | Shrub |
| Waxleaf Privet | Shrub |
| Carolina Cherry Laurel Shrub | Live plant |
| 10 Emerald Green Arborvitae Tr | Live Plants |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Shrubs For Privacy
Choosing the right privacy shrub involves more than selecting a plant that looks good. It’s essential to consider how quickly the shrub grows, its maintenance needs, and how well it fits your climate. Other factors like size at maturity and growth habit influence how long you’ll enjoy privacy without extra work. By understanding these aspects, you can select shrubs that meet both your privacy goals and your gardening capabilities.Growth Rate and Speed of Privacy
One of the most critical factors is how quickly a shrub can form a dense privacy barrier. Fast-growing options like Green Giant Arborvitae can create coverage in just a few years, ideal for immediate privacy. However, faster growth often means more frequent trimming and higher maintenance. Slower-growing shrubs, such as Boxwoods, take longer to establish but tend to require less pruning once mature. Balancing your desire for quick privacy against your willingness to care for the plants is key in this decision.
Maintenance and Pruning Needs
Some shrubs need regular trimming to maintain a tidy appearance and dense coverage, especially fast growers. Evergreen species like Privets and Thuja require minimal pruning once established, making them suitable for low-maintenance landscapes. In contrast, plants like Boxwoods may need periodic shaping, which can be time-consuming. Consider your available time and gardening experience, as over-pruning can stress some plants or affect their density.
Climate Compatibility and Hardiness
Not all shrubs thrive in every climate zone. Selecting plants suited to your USDA hardiness zone ensures better growth and longevity. For colder regions, hardy options like Emerald Green Arborvitae perform well, while tropical or subtropical plants may struggle outside their preferred zones. It’s worth checking each shrub’s specific hardiness rating and considering local weather patterns to avoid disappointment and extra costs.
Size at Maturity and Space Requirements
Understanding how large a shrub will grow helps prevent overcrowding and ensures you meet your privacy goals. Some plants, like the Green Wall Willow, grow quickly but stay manageable in size, while others like the Podocarpus can be tailored through pruning. Measure your available space and envision the mature size of your chosen shrub to make a smart investment that won’t outgrow your yard or require costly removal later.
Aesthetic Appeal and Compatibility with Landscape
Privacy shrubs should complement your overall landscape design. Some plants, like Boxwoods, offer a classic, formal look, while others like Thuja have a more natural, lush appearance. Consider your preferred style, color, and texture to ensure your privacy hedge enhances rather than clashes with your existing garden. The right choice can provide both privacy and visual harmony.
Frequently Asked Questions
How fast do privacy shrubs typically grow?
Growth rates vary widely among shrubs. Fast-growing options like Green Giant Arborvitae can reach full height in 3-5 years, making them ideal for immediate privacy. Slower varieties like Boxwoods may take a decade or more to develop a dense hedge but require less pruning once mature. Your choice should balance how quickly you need privacy with how much maintenance you’re willing to perform.
Are evergreen shrubs better for all-year privacy?
Evergreens are generally the best for year-round privacy because they retain their foliage throughout the seasons. Deciduous shrubs lose leaves in winter, creating gaps in coverage. For consistent privacy, selecting evergreen varieties like Privets, Thuja, or Boxwoods ensures your hedge remains dense and effective regardless of the season.
What is the best low-maintenance shrub for privacy?
Among low-maintenance options, Privets and certain types of Arborvitae like Emerald Green are excellent because they require minimal pruning once established. They are hardy, adaptable, and hold their shape with little effort. However, they still benefit from occasional trimming to maintain density and prevent overgrowth, so consider your willingness to perform even light upkeep.
Can I mix different shrubs for a more natural look?
Mixing shrubs can add visual interest and improve biodiversity in your landscape. Combining evergreens like Thuja with deciduous plants such as Privets creates a varied texture and seasonal interest. Just ensure compatible growth habits and maintenance needs to avoid creating an uneven or unmanageable hedge. Proper planning helps balance aesthetics with privacy effectiveness.
How do I prepare my soil for planting privacy shrubs?
Most shrubs thrive in well-drained, fertile soil. Before planting, test your soil’s pH and amend it with organic matter or compost if necessary. Ensuring good drainage prevents root rot, especially for moisture-sensitive plants like Podocarpus. Proper soil preparation promotes healthy growth, quicker establishment, and a more effective privacy hedge.
Conclusion
For those seeking an all-around reliable privacy hedge, the Highlander Boxwood offers a classic look with manageable maintenance, making it ideal for most landscapes. If rapid coverage is your priority, the Brighter Blooms Green Giant Arborvitae stands out as the best choice, especially for larger yards. Budget-conscious buyers will appreciate the value-packed Privet options like Waxleaf Privet, which deliver dense screens at a lower cost. Beginners will find the Podocarpus or Willow Cuttings easier to manage, while those in colder climates should lean toward hardy evergreens like Emerald Green Arborvitae. Ultimately, your selection depends on your growth timeline, maintenance capacity, and aesthetic preferences—use this guide to find the perfect shrub for your privacy needs.
