When selecting privacy shrubs, the goal is to create a natural, year-round barrier that offers both seclusion and aesthetic appeal. The Emerald Green Arborvitae stands out as the best overall choice for its dense foliage and adaptability, while the Green Wall Willow offers rapid growth for quick privacy. The main tradeoffs in this category often involve balancing fast growth with maintenance needs or selecting plants that provide year-round coverage versus seasonal interest. Continue reading for a detailed breakdown of the best options to suit different needs and landscapes.
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Key Takeaways
- Fast-growing options like Willow cuttings provide quick privacy but may require more frequent upkeep.
- Evergreen varieties such as Arborvitae and Privet offer year-round coverage, ideal for permanent screens.
- Plant size and maturity at planting influence how quickly a hedge will establish and reach full privacy.
- Some shrubs excel in specific climates or soil conditions, so regional adaptability is key.
- Pricing varies widely; high-density, mature plants tend to cost more but reduce wait times for privacy.
| privacy shrub | Quantity | Height | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20 Emerald Green Arborvitae Tr | 20 | 6-12 inches | — |
| Perfect Plants Thuja Green Gia | 18 liners | — | Evergreen arborvitae |
| Perfect Plants Thuja Green Gia | 8-pack | Up to 60 ft | Privacy Trees |
| Green Wall Willow Privacy Tree | 10 Cuttings | — | Willow Cuttings |
| 4 Golden Vicary Privet Shrubs | 4 | 8-12 ft | — |
| Viburnum Odoratissimum | 3 Liv | — | — | Live Plants |
| 2 Highlander Boxwood | — | 6–7 ft | Evergreen Shrub |
| 2 Carolina Cherry Laurel Shrub | 2 plants | 4-6 inches | — |
| Colorful Hedge Bundle | Live B | — | — | — |
| Curled Leaf Privet | 10 Live Q | 10 plants | — | Evergreen flowering shrub |
| Ligustrum Waxleaf Privet | — | 8-10 feet | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
20 Emerald Green Arborvitae Trees/Shrubs – 6-12″ Tall Live Plants
This set of 20 Emerald Green Arborvitae offers a cost-effective way to establish a dense, year-round privacy barrier, especially compared to larger mature trees like the Green Wall Willow cuttings. Since these are shipped as bareroot plants, successful establishment depends heavily on careful planting and ongoing care, which adds some initial effort. Their compact height (6-12 inches) makes them ideal for low borders or starting a hedge but limits immediate privacy. Unlike the Thuja Green Giant liners, which grow tall quickly, these are better suited for those willing to wait for growth or for short-term screening. Limited mature height is a tradeoff for ease of planting and maintenance. This pick makes the most sense for budget-conscious gardeners wanting a straightforward, low-maintenance start to a privacy hedge.
Pros:- Creates dense, impenetrable privacy screens once established
- Vibrant green foliage remains year-round
- No pruning or ongoing maintenance required after planting
- Versatile for various landscape uses
Cons:- Ships as bareroot plants, requiring careful planting and care
- Limited height at maturity, slow to grow
- Requires additional effort and patience for optimal results
Best for: Budget-conscious homeowners seeking an affordable, low-maintenance start to a privacy hedge, willing to wait for full growth.
Not ideal for: Those needing immediate privacy or mature screening within a season, due to the small size and slow growth of bareroot plants.
- Quantity:20
- Plant Type:Arborvitae
- Color:Emerald Green
- Height:6-12 inches
- Growth Habit:Pyramid-shaped
- Shipping:Bareroot
Our verdict“Ideal for budget-focused gardeners willing to invest time in planting and nurturing young shrubs for long-term privacy.”
Perfect Plants Thuja Green Giant Arborvitae, 18-Pack Liners
Compared with the smaller Arborvitae set, this 18-pack of Thuja Green Giant liners provides an immediate and dense privacy screen, capable of reaching 60 feet tall with minimal effort once established. They are suited for buyers who want quick results and a long-lasting hedge, but their size means they need ample space and pruning to keep within desired dimensions. The growth potential is ideal for large properties, though shipping restrictions to CA and AZ limit availability. These liners require less ongoing care than younger plants, making them perfect for busy homeowners looking for a reliable privacy solution. However, their full growth demands space and patience, which may not suit urban or small-yard environments. This option makes the most sense for those prioritizing speed and long-term screening.
Pros:- Provides an instant privacy screen
- Low maintenance after establishment
- Dense, dark green foliage with a pleasant scent
- Fast-growing and long-lived
Cons:- Requires substantial space for full growth
- Cannot ship to CA or AZ
- May need pruning to maintain desired size
Best for: Homeowners with large yards or properties needing quick privacy, who can accommodate tall mature trees and are okay with some pruning.
Not ideal for: Urban residents or those with limited space, due to the height and width of mature trees, or buyers in states where shipping is restricted.
- Quantity:18 liners
- Growth Height:Up to 60 ft
- Growth Width:Up to 20 ft
- Zones:5-9
- Type:Evergreen arborvitae
Our verdict“Excellent for large properties needing rapid, long-lasting privacy with minimal ongoing effort.”
Perfect Plants Thuja Green Giant Arborvitae, 2 ft (8-Pack), Privacy Trees
Compared to liners, this 8-pack of Green Giant trees offers an accelerated privacy solution suitable for planting in smaller spaces or for those who want quick coverage. Growing up to 60 feet tall, these trees are ideal for creating a tall, dense screen quickly, but the rapid growth also means they can become unmanageable without regular pruning. They are perfect for buyers who want a fast, low-maintenance hedge that will mature in a few years, especially in zones 5-9. However, without careful pruning, they risk becoming oversized, which might not suit smaller yards or urban landscapes. The main tradeoff is the need for space and ongoing management to keep them within desired bounds. This makes sense for those seeking rapid, long-term privacy with minimal initial effort.
Pros:- Fast-growing and dense foliage
- Provides long-term privacy with minimal effort
- Low maintenance once established
- Suitable for zones 5-9
Cons:- Can grow very tall if not pruned
- Requires space for full mature size
- Needs regular pruning to maintain desired height
Best for: Property owners wanting quick, tall privacy and capable of regular pruning, especially in zones 5-9.
Not ideal for: Urban dwellers or small yards where space for full mature size isn’t available, or those seeking a low-pruning, slow-growth hedge.
- Height:Up to 60 ft
- Quantity:8-pack
- Type:Privacy Trees
- Growth Rate:Fast-growing
- Zones:5-9
Our verdict“Best for homeowners seeking a swift, tall privacy hedge that can be managed with pruning over time.”
Green Wall Willow Privacy Tree Cuttings – Fast Growing Privacy Screen & Natural Fences (10 Cuttings)
Compared with the evergreen options, these Willow cuttings are designed for speed and natural appearance in creating privacy screens and fences. Their fast growth rate makes them suitable for immediate screening, but they require plenty of space and ongoing management to prevent invasiveness. They are particularly appealing to DIY gardeners and those wanting a flexible, natural barrier, as they can be planted from cuttings with relative ease. However, their quick growth can lead to invasive behavior if not properly maintained, and they may take some time to fully establish. This choice is best for those wanting a quick, natural solution, willing to manage potential spread, and in need of a flexible, adaptable privacy barrier.
Pros:- Fast-growing and dense privacy screen
- Easy to plant from cuttings, great for beginners
- Creates natural fencing and borders
- Low cost and adaptable to various soils
Cons:- Requires ample space for planting multiple cuttings
- Potential invasiveness if not managed
- Initial establishment takes some time
Best for: DIY enthusiasts wanting rapid, natural privacy screens, and capable of managing growth control.
Not ideal for: Urban or small-yard owners who prefer low-maintenance, non-invasive options, or those seeking permanent, non-invasive barriers.
- Type:Willow Cuttings
- Quantity:10 Cuttings
- Usage:Outdoor
- Sunlight Exposure:Full Sun
- Materials & Care:GMO Free
Our verdict“Excellent for DIY landscapers seeking quick, natural privacy solutions with active management.”
4 Golden Vicary Privet Shrubs – Fast-Growing Golden Hedge for Privacy Screens, Borders & Landscaping (Ligustrum vicaryi) in 3.5″ Cubes
This 4-pack of Golden Vicary Privet offers a bright, ornamental alternative to traditional green privacy hedges, with dense golden foliage that matures to chartreuse. Compared to the evergreen Thuja Green Giant, these shrubs provide a striking visual effect and are excellent for creating fast-growing, colorful privacy screens or borders. Their hardiness in zones 5-8 and drought tolerance make them versatile, but their deciduous nature means they lose leaves in winter, reducing privacy during that season. They respond well to pruning, making them adaptable for shaping. The main tradeoff is their seasonal leaf drop, which might be a concern for year-round privacy. This makes them perfect for ornamental hedges that combine privacy with visual appeal.
Pros:- Fast-growing with vibrant golden foliage
- Provides effective privacy when in leaf
- Deer-resistant and drought-tolerant
- Responds well to pruning for shaping
Cons:- Loses leaves in winter, reducing privacy seasonally
- Seasonal variation in appearance
- Color may vary with seasonal changes
Best for: Landscapers and homeowners wanting a fast-growing, colorful hedge with ornamental value, in zones 5-8.
Not ideal for: Those seeking year-round privacy in colder climates or minimal seasonal maintenance, due to deciduous behavior.
- Height:8-12 ft
- Quantity:4
- Zone:5-8
- Growth Rate:Fast-growing
- Material:Live plants in 3.5″ cubes
Our verdict“Best for ornamental privacy screens that prioritize vibrant color and quick growth, especially in zones 5-8.”
Viburnum Odoratissimum | 3 Live Plants | Fast Growing Evergreen Shrub with Fragrant White Flowers
This Viburnum Odoratissimum stands out for its rapid growth and dense foliage, making it an excellent choice for quick privacy screening compared to slower-growing options like the Highlander Boxwood. Its fragrant white flowers in spring add an appealing sensory layer, attracting pollinators and enhancing garden ambiance. However, its fast growth means it may require regular pruning to maintain shape, and in some regions, it might become invasive if not properly managed. It’s ideal for homeowners who want immediate privacy and enjoy floral scent, but less suitable for those seeking a low-maintenance, slow-growing hedge. Compared to the Highlander Boxwood, it offers faster screening but demands more frequent upkeep.
Pros:- Fast-growing and creates quick privacy coverage
- Fragrant white flowers attract pollinators
- Drought-tolerant and adaptable to various soils
Cons:- May require regular pruning to control size
- Can grow large and needs space management
- Potential invasiveness in some regions
Best for: Gardeners needing quick privacy with floral appeal and minimal soil requirements
Not ideal for: Those preferring slow-growing, low-maintenance hedges or living in regions where it may be invasive
- Number of Plants:3
- Type:Live Plants
- Growth Rate:Fast Growing
- Foliage:Evergreen
- Flower Color:White
- Bloom Season:Spring
- Maintenance:Low
- Drought Tolerance:Yes
Our verdict“This shrub suits buyers seeking rapid privacy with floral scent, accepting the need for upkeep and regional management considerations.”
2 Highlander Boxwood – Fast-Growing Evergreen Shrubs for Privacy Hedges and Borders
The Highlander Boxwood is a reliable choice for those who prefer a classic, formal hedge. Its fast growth to 6-7 feet makes it suitable for quick privacy, especially when compared to slower-growing species like the Carolina Cherry Laurel. Its glossy foliage remains vibrant year-round, requiring minimal pruning to maintain shape. Still, natural variations can cause slight inconsistencies in appearance, and it’s not ideal for regions with extreme cold or very poor soil. This pick makes the most sense for homeowners wanting a tidy, evergreen barrier with minimal fuss, but it may not satisfy those seeking a more natural or diverse landscape.
Pros:- Fast-growing and easy to establish
- Year-round glossy green foliage
- Low-maintenance with minimal pruning
Cons:- Natural size variation may occur
- Excludes shipping to some regions like Alaska and Hawaii
- Requires regular watering for optimal growth
Best for: Homeowners seeking a quick, low-maintenance evergreen hedge in temperate climates
Not ideal for: Gardeners in very cold zones or those wanting a highly natural, less manicured look
- Type:Evergreen Shrub
- Variety:Buxus sempervirens ‘Highlander’
- Size:3.5-inch cubes
- Height:6–7 ft
- Width:2–3 ft
- Hardiness Zones:5–9
- Color:Glossy green foliage
Our verdict“Ideal for those who want quick, uniform privacy screens with minimal ongoing effort, but with some regional shipping restrictions.”
2 Carolina Cherry Laurel Shrubs – 4-6″ Tall Live Plants in 3″ Pots
This Carolina Cherry Laurel offers immediate privacy due to its dense, evergreen foliage, making it perfect for quick screening compared to slower-growing hedges like boxwoods. Its small size of 4-6 inches means it initially provides limited coverage, requiring time and care to reach full height. Its glossy green leaves and seasonal flowers add visual interest, but it needs regular pruning to maintain shape and promote healthy growth. This option is best for buyers who want instant visual buffer and are willing to wait for full maturity, but less suitable for those seeking an immediate, tall hedge straight out of the box.
Pros:- Creates instant privacy with dense foliage
- Low maintenance and adaptable to soils
- Year-round visual appeal with glossy leaves
Cons:- Small initial size, requiring time to grow
- Needs regular pruning for shape
- Limited info on mature size and root development
Best for: Landscapers or homeowners wanting quick, visual privacy with flexible planting options
Not ideal for: Those expecting instant tall privacy or unwilling to invest in subsequent growth management
- Quantity:2 plants
- Height:4-6 inches
- Pot Size:3 inches
- Plant Type:Evergreen shrub
- Usage:Outdoor
- Features:Low maintenance, dense foliage
Our verdict“Best suited for those who want immediate visual screening and are prepared for subsequent growth, rather than instant tall privacy.”
Colorful Hedge Bundle | Live Bare Root – Forsythia, Lilac & Red Twig Dogwood Shrubs
This bundle offers a mix of vibrant, seasonal color with Forsythia, Lilac, and Red Twig Dogwood, ideal for those wanting a colorful privacy hedge that blooms in spring and offers winter interest. Compared with evergreen options like the Privet, these shrubs provide more visual variety across seasons, though they take time to establish and bloom. Their dormant, bare root state means they need proper planting and patience before full coverage and flowering appear. This choice is perfect for landscape enthusiasts who value seasonal diversity, but less ideal for those needing quick, year-round privacy without waiting for blooms.
Pros:- Provides year-round color with blooms and stems
- Includes hardy, low-maintenance shrubs
- Adds seasonal interest and privacy
Cons:- Dormant bare root plants need planting care and patience
- Growth and flowering depend on proper planting conditions
- Initial appearance may be less lush
Best for: Gardeners seeking a colorful, multi-season privacy screen with landscape interest
Not ideal for: Those preferring instant privacy or minimal seasonal color
- Includes:2 Forsythia, 2 Lilac, 2 Red Twig Dogwood
- Plant Type:Bare root shrubs
- Season:Dormant
- Purpose:Privacy hedge, landscape accent
- Hardiness:Cold hardy
- Growth Rate:Fast growing
Our verdict“Ideal for those who enjoy seasonal color and accept some wait time for establishing a diverse, vibrant hedge.”
Curled Leaf Privet | 10 Live Quart Size Plants | Ligustrum Japonicum Recurvifolium
The Curled Leaf Privet is a flexible option for creating hedges or standalone features, especially for those who want a year-round evergreen with minimal care. Its low-maintenance nature and tolerance for water and sun make it easier to manage than more finicky species. Unlike the Highlander Boxwood, which favors a more formal look, this privet can adapt to various shapes and uses. However, it requires full sunlight to thrive, and its mature size needs consideration to avoid overcrowding. It’s an excellent choice for homeowners wanting a reliable, versatile shrub, but less suited for shaded or small-space gardens.
Pros:- Low-maintenance and easy to care for
- Versatile for hedges, borders, or standalone features
- Provides year-round visual appeal
Cons:- Requires full sunlight for optimal growth
- Needs space for mature size
- Growth pattern can be somewhat unruly if not pruned
Best for: Homeowners seeking low-maintenance, adaptable privacy plants for full sun exposure
Not ideal for: Gardeners with shaded yards or limited space, due to sunlight needs
- Quantity:10 plants
- Size:Quart size
- Species:Ligustrum japonicum recurvifolium
- Type:Evergreen flowering shrub
Our verdict“Best for sun-loving homeowners who want a reliable, low-effort hedge with flexibility in landscape design.”
Ligustrum Waxleaf Privet – 15 Live Plants – Evergreen Privacy Hedge
The Ligustrum Waxleaf Privet stands out for its rapid growth and adaptability, making it a reliable choice for creating dense privacy screens. Compared with the Golden Vicary Privet, which offers a vibrant color but less density, this shrub provides a more uniform green barrier. Its responsiveness to pruning makes it ideal for shaping into formal hedges or informal screens, though it requires regular trimming—about 2-3 times annually—to stay tidy. Its evergreen foliage offers year-round privacy, but it can shed leaves in winter, unlike the Viburnum Odoratissimum, which remains fully evergreen. This shrub works best for homeowners seeking a fast, customizable privacy solution that can double as a windbreak or topiary, but it’s less suited for low-maintenance gardens or colder climates where winter leaf loss is a concern.
Pros:- Rapid growth ensures quick privacy establishment
- Responds well to pruning and shaping for customization
- Versatile for various landscaping uses including topiary and containers
- Dense foliage provides effective screening
Cons:- Requires regular watering, especially during the establishment phase
- Needs pruning 2-3 times a year to maintain shape and density
- Can lose leaves in winter, reducing its privacy effect in colder months
Best for: Gardeners wanting a fast-growing, easily pruned hedge that can be shaped for formal or informal privacy screens.
Not ideal for: Those seeking low-maintenance, evergreen privacy plants that require minimal pruning and are fully tolerant of winter conditions.
- Plant Type:Shrub
- Height:8-10 feet
- Foliage:Glossy green
- Bloom Color:Creamy-white
- Fruit:Blue-black
- Growth Rate:Fast
- Uses:Privacy hedge, windscreen, topiary, container plant
Our verdict“This shrub is an excellent choice for homeowners seeking fast, shapeable privacy hedges willing to commit to regular maintenance.”
How We Picked
The products in this roundup were evaluated based on their ability to provide reliable privacy, growth rate, ease of maintenance, and overall durability. We prioritized evergreen varieties for year-round coverage, but included fast-growing deciduous options for those seeking rapid screening. The selection also considers cost-effectiveness, planting maturity, and suitability for different garden sizes and climates. Ranking was influenced by user reviews, horticultural versatility, and the balance between initial investment and long-term value.| privacy shrub | Type |
|---|---|
| 20 Emerald Green Arborvitae Tr | — |
| Perfect Plants Thuja Green Gia | Evergreen arborvitae |
| Perfect Plants Thuja Green Gia | Privacy Trees |
| Green Wall Willow Privacy Tree | Willow Cuttings |
| 4 Golden Vicary Privet Shrubs | — |
| Viburnum Odoratissimum | 3 Liv | Live Plants |
| 2 Highlander Boxwood | Evergreen Shrub |
| 2 Carolina Cherry Laurel Shrub | — |
| Colorful Hedge Bundle | Live B | — |
| Curled Leaf Privet | 10 Live Q | Evergreen flowering shrub |
| Ligustrum Waxleaf Privet | — |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Privacy Shrubs
Choosing the right privacy shrub depends on several critical factors beyond just appearance. Understanding growth habits, climate adaptability, maintenance needs, and size expectations can help you avoid common mistakes like selecting plants that grow too slowly or aren’t suited to your environment. A well-chosen shrub can transform your outdoor space into a private retreat for years to come, but mismatched selections can lead to costly replacements or constant upkeep.Growth Rate and Size
Consider how quickly you want the shrub to establish privacy. Fast-growing varieties like Willow or Privet can offer immediate screening but may require more pruning. Conversely, slow growers like Boxwood or certain Privets take longer to mature but generally demand less maintenance over time. Be realistic about your space and patience level—overly rapid growth can sometimes lead to structural issues or higher trimming needs.
Climate and Soil Compatibility
Not all shrubs thrive in every climate; some prefer cooler, humid environments, while others excel in warmer, drier regions. Check your local USDA hardiness zone and soil conditions before selecting plants. Choosing adaptable varieties reduces the risk of plant stress or failure, saving you time and money on replacements or extra care. Regional suitability often separates long-term success from quick disappointment.
Maintenance and Pruning
While some shrubs like Privet or Boxwood require regular trimming to maintain shape and density, others like Willow or Viburnum are more forgiving. Consider how much time you’re willing to dedicate to upkeep—low-maintenance options tend to be more forgiving for beginners. Remember that dense foliage can sometimes block sunlight or airflow, so strategic pruning is necessary to prevent disease and keep the plants healthy.
Plant Maturity and Cost
Plants purchased at a larger size or maturity level will establish faster but come with a higher price tag. Smaller seedlings are more affordable but will take longer to provide full privacy. Evaluate your budget and timeline carefully—sometimes investing in larger, more mature plants pays off by reducing wait time and initial effort. This balance often influences overall project costs and satisfaction.
Aesthetic and Seasonal Interest
Beyond privacy, consider how the shrub’s appearance enhances your landscape year-round. Evergreens like Arborvitae provide constant coverage, while deciduous plants like Lilacs or Forsythia add seasonal color and fragrance. Mixing varieties can create a dynamic, multi-season privacy screen, but may also increase complexity in maintenance and planning. Clarify whether your priority is year-round privacy or visual interest during specific seasons.
Frequently Asked Questions
How fast can I expect my privacy shrub to grow and provide full coverage?
Growth rate varies by species and planting conditions. Fast-growing options like Willow or Privet can reach full privacy within one to three years if given optimal conditions, while slower species like Boxwood may take several years. Proper planting, watering, and pruning can significantly influence how quickly your hedge matures. Patience is key, especially with less vigorous varieties, but choosing a fast-growing shrub ensures quicker results.
Are evergreen shrubs better for privacy than deciduous ones?
Evergreens generally provide year-round privacy, making them the better choice for continuous screening. Deciduous shrubs like Lilac or Forsythia shed leaves in winter, which temporarily reduces privacy but can offer seasonal interest and color. The decision depends on whether you prioritize constant coverage or seasonal aesthetics. Many homeowners opt for a mix to balance privacy needs with visual appeal across seasons.
What soil conditions are best for most privacy shrubs?
Most privacy shrubs prefer well-drained soil with good fertility. Loamy soil that retains moisture without becoming waterlogged supports healthy root development. Some species are more tolerant of poor drainage or dry conditions—it’s important to match your chosen shrub to your garden’s soil type. Conducting a soil test before planting can help determine amendments needed for optimal growth and longevity.
How much maintenance do privacy shrubs typically require?
The maintenance level varies widely. Evergreen shrubs like Privet or Arborvitae often need regular pruning to maintain density and shape, while fast-growing species like Willow may require frequent trimming to control size. Drought-tolerant varieties generally need less watering once established. Selecting low-maintenance plants can reduce ongoing effort but might also limit customization options. Consider your willingness to prune and care for your hedge over time.
Can I plant privacy shrubs close together for faster screening?
Planting shrubs closer than recommended can lead to overcrowding, poor air circulation, and increased disease risk. While tighter spacing might speed up initial privacy, it often results in the need for more frequent pruning and eventual thinning. Following the spacing guidelines for each species ensures healthy growth and a more natural, sustainable barrier. Proper spacing also allows plants to reach full size without competing for resources.
Conclusion
For those seeking a reliable, all-year privacy solution, the Emerald Green Arborvitae remains the best overall choice due to its dense foliage and low maintenance needs. Budget-conscious buyers will appreciate the affordability of smaller Privet or Boxwood plants, which offer good privacy with less initial investment. Gardeners wanting quick results might lean toward fast-growing Willow cuttings or Viburnum, despite higher pruning requirements. Beginners should consider low-maintenance evergreen options, while those in need of seasonal color may prefer a mix of deciduous shrubs like Forsythia and Lilac. Select based on your climate, timeline, and aesthetic preferences to achieve the privacy you desire.
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