In today’s world, privacy is more than a luxury—it’s a necessity. Whether you live in a busy suburban neighborhood or a home with neighboring windows just a little too close, finding ways to create a natural barrier can dramatically improve your comfort and enjoyment of your outdoor space. While fences and walls are an option, they can be costly, rigid, and less visually appealing. That’s where fast-growing privacy shrubs come in.
Fast-growing privacy shrubs offer an elegant, eco-friendly, and cost-effective solution to backyard seclusion. They not only act as living fences but also enhance curb appeal, reduce noise, and support local biodiversity. In this article, we’ll explore 15 of the best fast-growing shrubs for privacy, along with planting and care tips to help you get the most from your living screen.
What to Look for in a Fast-Growing Privacy Shrub
Before choosing a privacy shrub, it’s essential to evaluate your space and needs. Not all shrubs are created equal—some grow tall, others wide, and many thrive only in specific climates.
Key Features to Consider:
- Growth Rate: Aim for shrubs that grow at least 1–3 feet per year.
- Mature Height and Spread: Taller varieties provide better coverage.
- Evergreen vs. Deciduous: Evergreen shrubs offer year-round privacy.
- Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, partial shade, or full shade compatibility.
- Soil Conditions: Check for drainage and pH preferences.
- Maintenance Needs: Consider pruning frequency and watering habits.
- USDA Hardiness Zone: Match the shrub to your regional climate zone.
By matching these characteristics with your environment, you’ll ensure quick, healthy growth and maximum privacy.
15 Fast-Growing Privacy Shrubs to Plant Today
Ready to turn your yard into a private oasis? Here are 15 fast-growing privacy shrubs that will do just that.
1. Arborvitae (Thuja Green Giant)
- Growth Rate: 3–5 feet/year
- Height: Up to 40 feet
- Zones: 5–9
- Features: Evergreen, drought-tolerant, dense foliage
A privacy powerhouse, the Thuja Green Giant grows quickly and forms a tall, lush hedge that’s perfect for large spaces. It thrives in full sun and needs minimal maintenance.
2. Privet (Ligustrum spp.)
- Growth Rate: 2–3 feet/year
- Height: 10–15 feet
- Zones: 5–9
- Features: Fast-growing, adaptable, easy to shape
Privet forms a thick hedge ideal for both formal and informal gardens. It grows fast, responds well to pruning, and offers great privacy, though some species can be invasive in certain areas.
3. Wax Myrtle (Morella cerifera)
- Growth Rate: 1–2 feet/year
- Height: 10–20 feet
- Zones: 7–10
- Features: Fragrant, salt-tolerant, native to the Southeast
Great for coastal gardens, Wax Myrtle provides privacy while supporting wildlife and tolerating a range of soil conditions.
4. Leyland Cypress (× Cuprocyparis leylandii)
- Growth Rate: 3–4 feet/year
- Height: 60–70 feet
- Zones: 6–10
- Features: Tall, conical, evergreen
Perfect for large properties, this rapid grower forms an impenetrable green wall. However, it requires space and occasional trimming.
5. Forsythia (Forsythia x intermedia)
- Growth Rate: 2–4 feet/year
- Height: 8–10 feet
- Zones: 5–8
- Features: Bright yellow flowers in early spring
A deciduous shrub, Forsythia offers vibrant seasonal color and dense branching, which can double as a privacy hedge when maintained.
6. Bamboo (Clumping varieties like Bambusa)
- Growth Rate: 1–3 feet/year
- Height: 10–30 feet
- Zones: 7–11
- Features: Unique aesthetic, fast-spreading
When properly contained, clumping bamboo provides a tall, exotic privacy screen. Avoid invasive running varieties unless using strong root barriers.
7. Red-Tipped Photinia (Photinia × fraseri)
- Growth Rate: 1–2 feet/year
- Height: 10–15 feet
- Zones: 7–9
- Features: Red new growth, glossy green foliage
Photinia is popular for its striking foliage and ability to form dense, colorful hedges with moderate upkeep.
8. Viburnum (Viburnum odoratissimum)
- Growth Rate: 2–3 feet/year
- Height: 12–20 feet
- Zones: 8–10
- Features: Fragrant flowers, glossy leaves
Fast-growing and dense, this evergreen shrub works well in warm climates and attracts pollinators in spring.
9. Ligustrum Japonicum (Japanese Privet)
- Growth Rate: 1–2 feet/year
- Height: 8–12 feet
- Zones: 7–10
- Features: Compact, shiny leaves, white blooms
This variety of privet is ideal for smaller yards and thrives in both sun and partial shade.
10. Nellie R. Stevens Holly
- Growth Rate: 2–3 feet/year
- Height: 15–25 feet
- Zones: 6–9
- Features: Evergreen, berries in fall, low maintenance
Nellie R. Stevens offers dense foliage and festive red berries. It’s perfect for both ornamental and privacy purposes.
11. Carolina Cherry Laurel (Prunus caroliniana)
- Growth Rate: 2–3 feet/year
- Height: 15–20 feet
- Zones: 7–10
- Features: Evergreen, drought-resistant, glossy leaves
An excellent option for the southern U.S., this shrub grows quickly with minimal care.
12. Oleander (Nerium oleander)
- Growth Rate: 1–2 feet/year
- Height: 6–12 feet
- Zones: 8–10
- Features: Colorful flowers, salt-tolerant
Fast-growing and colorful, Oleander creates a lively barrier but is toxic—use caution around children or pets.
13. Mock Orange (Philadelphus spp.)
- Growth Rate: 2–3 feet/year
- Height: 6–10 feet
- Zones: 4–8
- Features: Fragrant white flowers
Best known for its citrus-scented blooms, Mock Orange is perfect for fragrant, flowering hedges.
14. Texas Sage (Leucophyllum frutescens)
- Growth Rate: 1–2 feet/year
- Height: 5–8 feet
- Zones: 8–11
- Features: Silvery leaves, drought-resistant
Ideal for hot, dry climates, Texas Sage brings beauty and resilience to your landscape.
15. Japanese Pittosporum (Pittosporum tobira)
- Growth Rate: 1–2 feet/year
- Height: 6–10 feet
- Zones: 8–10
- Features: Rounded shape, fragrant flowers
A tidy, compact shrub that works well for low hedges and is tolerant of coastal conditions.
Tips for Planting and Caring for Privacy Shrubs
Best Planting Practices
- Timing: Early spring or fall are ideal.
- Soil Prep: Use compost or organic matter to enrich poor soils.
- Spacing: Leave enough room for mature growth; overcrowding stunts development.
- Watering: Water regularly during the first year; drought-tolerant varieties may need less after establishment.
Care & Maintenance
- Pruning: Trim annually to maintain shape and promote density.
- Mulching: Helps retain moisture and regulate root temperature.
- Fertilizing: Use a balanced fertilizer in early spring for vigorous growth.
Consistent care will ensure that your privacy shrubs thrive and grow into a beautiful natural barrier within a few seasons.
Best Privacy Shrubs by Region and Climate
To ensure success, select shrubs that thrive in your local climate:
| Region | Recommended Shrubs |
|---|---|
| Cold Climates (Zones 3–5) | Mock Orange, Forsythia, Arborvitae |
| Humid Southeast (Zones 7–9) | Wax Myrtle, Viburnum, Red-Tipped Photinia |
| Arid/Hot Climates (Zones 9–11) | Texas Sage, Oleander, Bamboo (clumping) |
| Coastal Areas | Wax Myrtle, Japanese Pittosporum, Carolina Cherry Laurel |
Use the USDA Hardiness Zone Map to determine the most appropriate varieties for your area.
Shrubs vs. Fences – Which Is Better for Backyard Privacy?
While fences offer immediate coverage, privacy shrubs have long-term benefits that often outweigh those of traditional hardscape options.
Comparison Highlights:
| Feature | Privacy Shrubs | Fences |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Low to medium (once established) | High (initial cost) |
| Aesthetic | Natural and customizable | Functional, but less organic |
| Maintenance | Seasonal pruning | Occasional repairs or staining |
| Wildlife Support | Attracts birds & pollinators | No environmental benefit |
| Noise Reduction | Better sound absorption | Limited noise buffering |
For homeowners who want a lush, inviting outdoor space, privacy shrubs offer a living solution that grows more valuable with time.
Conclusion
Fast-growing privacy shrubs are an excellent way to enhance your backyard’s appearance while creating a peaceful, secluded environment. Whether you’re looking for evergreen hedges, flowering screens, or regional favorites, there’s a fast-growing shrub that suits your space and style.
With the right choice, care, and placement, you can enjoy lush greenery, natural beauty, and privacy—without sacrificing curb appeal or breaking the bank.
Call to Action
Ready to reclaim your privacy and transform your backyard? Visit your local nursery, consult your USDA zone, and start planting your perfect hedge today. Don’t forget to bookmark this guide and share it with fellow gardeners—because good fences may make good neighbors, but great shrubs make beautiful ones.
