Privacy shrubs provide a natural, attractive way to create seclusion and block unwanted views in your yard. The Thuja Green Giant Arborvitae stands out as the best overall choice for its fast growth and dense coverage. For those on a budget, the Curled Leaf Privet offers good privacy at a lower cost, while the Sunshine Ligustrum adds vibrant color to your hedge. The main tradeoffs involve balancing growth rate, maintenance, and initial cost. Continue reading for the full breakdown of these options and what makes each unique.
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Key Takeaways
- Fast-growing options like the Thuja Green Giant excel for quick privacy solutions.
- Cost-effective shrubs such as Privet provide good coverage without high upfront costs.
- Evergreens tend to offer year-round privacy, but require more maintenance.
- Deciduous shrubs like Hybrid Willow grow rapidly but lose leaves seasonally, affecting privacy seasonality.
- Plant size and spacing are critical to achieving full coverage sooner—buy larger or more plants if immediate privacy is needed.
More Details on Our Top Picks
Thuja Green Giant Arborvitae Tree/Shrub – 5-10″ Tall Live Plant – 2.5″ Pot
This Green Giant Arborvitae stands out for its exceptional growth rate, reaching 3-5 feet annually, making it ideal for those who need quick privacy solutions. Compared to the smaller Emerald Green Arborvitae, it offers faster coverage and a more imposing presence, although it requires ample space for mature size and might need staking when young. Its evergreen foliage remains vibrant year-round, reducing maintenance efforts. However, its rapid growth can be a double-edged sword, demanding regular pruning to prevent overgrowth and support. This pick is perfect for homeowners seeking rapid, low-maintenance privacy, especially in larger yards where space isn’t limited.
Pros:- Fast-growing, providing quick privacy
- Evergreen foliage maintains color year-round
- Low maintenance once established
- Adaptable to different soil types
Cons:- Requires space for full mature size
- May need staking when young
- Potential for overgrowth if not managed
Best for: Property owners needing quick, substantial screening without constant upkeep
Not ideal for: Small gardens or tight spaces where overgrowth could be problematic or space is limited
- Height:5-10 inches
- Pot Size:2.5 inches
- Growth Rate:3-5 feet per year
- Seasonal Color:Evergreen, deep green
- Usage:Indoor and outdoor
Our verdict“This is the best choice for those seeking rapid, substantial privacy in spacious areas.”
Brighter Blooms Emerald Green Arborvitae, 1-2 Feet – Live Plant
This Emerald Green Arborvitae excels in tight spots, offering a neat, manageable hedge that grows to 1-2 feet. It’s easy to care for and adapts well to various soil and weather conditions, making it ideal for smaller gardens or urban yards. Compared with the larger Green Giant, it provides a more contained privacy barrier without overwhelming limited space. Its low pruning requirements keep upkeep minimal, although shipping restrictions mean it can’t be shipped to some states like Alaska and Hawaii. This plant is well-suited for homeowners wanting a simple, attractive privacy hedge in a limited area.
Pros:- Compact size fits small or urban gardens
- Easy to maintain and prune
- Adapts well to different soil and weather conditions
- Low pruning needs for a tidy appearance
Cons:- Limited to smaller height, not suitable for tall privacy needs
- Cannot be shipped to some states due to restrictions
- Mature size may still require additional planting for full coverage
Best for: Urban dwellers or gardeners with limited space seeking low-maintenance privacy hedges
Not ideal for: Large properties needing tall, fast-growing screens or full-grown privacy walls
- Size:1-2 feet
- Type:Live plant
- Plant Type:Evergreen Arborvitae
Our verdict“This is the best pick for small-scale, low-effort privacy solutions in limited spaces.”
Perfect Plants Thuja Green Giant Arborvitae, 18-Pack Liners
This 18-pack of liners offers an efficient way to establish a lush, tall privacy screen quickly, especially when planting in multiple locations or creating a windbreak. Unlike the small Emerald Green or the slower-growing Highlander Boxwood, these liners are designed for rapid establishment and dense coverage, reaching up to 60 feet at full maturity. They thrive in zones 5-9, making them versatile for many climates. The main tradeoff is their large mature size, which demands space and regular pruning to contain. This option makes the most sense for large properties or commercial landscapes where immediate privacy is a priority over initial planting effort.
Pros:- Instant privacy when planted in bulk
- Dense, attractive green foliage
- Low maintenance after establishment
- Great for windbreaks and large screens
Cons:- Does not ship to CA or AZ
- Requires significant space for full growth
- Limited zone compatibility (zones 5-9)
Best for: Landscapers or homeowners seeking fast, large-scale privacy with minimal ongoing effort
Not ideal for: Small gardens or those in restricted zones like California or Arizona due to shipping limitations
- Quantity:18 liners
- Growth Height:Up to 60 ft
- Growth Width:Up to 20 ft
- Zones:5-9
Our verdict“This is the best choice for large-scale, quick privacy screening in suitable zones.”
2 Highlander Boxwood – Fast-Growing Evergreen Shrubs for Privacy Hedges and Borders
The Highlander Boxwood offers a more formal, refined look compared to the lush, natural appearance of the Green Giant. Growing to 6-7 feet tall, it’s perfect for creating neat, evergreen borders or privacy screens in medium-sized gardens. It’s especially suited for those who prefer a low-maintenance, slow-pruning hedge that stays tidy with minimal effort. Compared to the larger, faster-growing Thuja Green Giant, the boxwood grows more slowly but provides a more controlled, elegant appearance. Its main limitation is the USDA zones—best for zones 5-9—and it may not be suitable for very cold or very warm climates outside this range.
Pros:- Fast-growing and evergreen
- Provides year-round privacy and aesthetic appeal
- Minimal pruning required
- Healthy, well-rooted plants shipped carefully
Cons:- Limited to USDA zones 5-9
- Excludes shipping to Alaska, Hawaii, and Puerto Rico
- Natural size variation possible
Best for: Homeowners wanting a classic, tidy hedge with minimal pruning effort
Not ideal for: Large-scale privacy needs or colder zones outside 5-9
- Quantity:2 plants
- Size:3.5-inch cubes
- Height:6-7 ft
- Width:2-3 ft
- Zone:USDA Zones 5-9
Our verdict“This is the best option for those seeking a formal, low-maintenance privacy hedge with classic appeal.”
10 Emerald Green Arborvitae Trees/Shrubs – 6-12″ Tall Live Plants
This bundle of ten small Emerald Green Arborvitae offers a cost-effective way to build a dense privacy barrier over time. Their natural pyramid shape and vibrant green color create an attractive, impenetrable screen once they mature. Compared with the larger Green Giant, these smaller plants require patience to reach full height but benefit from no pruning, thanks to their natural form. Bare-root plants mean careful handling during planting, but they will grow steadily, providing privacy in a few seasons. This option suits buyers willing to wait for full coverage, especially in landscape projects where initial size isn’t critical.
Pros:- Creates dense, impenetrable privacy over time
- Vibrant green year-round
- Natural shape requires no pruning
- Cost-effective for large projects
Cons:- Limited initial size, needs time to grow
- Bare-root plants require careful handling
- May take multiple seasons for full privacy
Best for: Budget-conscious homeowners willing to grow their privacy screen gradually
Not ideal for: Immediate privacy needs or very small planting areas where quick coverage is essential
- Quantity:10
- Height:6-12 inches
- Type:Emerald Green Arborvitae
Our verdict“This is the best option for budget-minded buyers willing to nurture their privacy hedge over time.”
20 Emerald Green Arborvitae Trees/Shrubs – 6-12″ Tall Live Plants
This set of small, bareroot Emerald Green Arborvitae offers an affordable way to establish a dense privacy barrier gradually. Compared with larger, pre-grown options like the Perfect Plants Thuja Green Giant, these smaller plants require patience and careful planting but demand less immediate investment. Their naturally pyramidal shape and vibrant green color provide year-round privacy, with no pruning needed. However, their limited initial size means you’ll need time to see full coverage, and handling bareroot plants requires some attention. This choice suits those willing to wait for growth without high upfront costs, but it’s less ideal for immediate privacy needs or impatient landscapers.
Pros:- Creates dense, impenetrable privacy screens
- Requires no pruning or ongoing maintenance
- Maintains vibrant green color year-round
- Versatile for landscape uses
Cons:- Limited to small initial size, requiring patience to grow
- Bareroot plants need careful handling and proper planting
Best for: Budget-conscious homeowners planning a long-term privacy hedge and comfortable with initial planting care
Not ideal for: Homeowners seeking instant privacy or quick results, as these plants need time to mature
- Quantity:20 plants
- Height:6-12 inches
- Type:Emerald Green Arborvitae
Our verdict“This option is best for cost-conscious buyers willing to wait for gradual privacy coverage.”
Hybrid Willow Tree Plants for Growing – Fast Privacy Hedge, Wind Block, Shade – 12 Feet Per Year – 24 Trees
The Austree Hybrid Willow Trees stand out for their extraordinary growth rate, reaching up to 12 feet annually, making them ideal for quickly establishing privacy or windbreaks. Compared with slower-growing options like the Sunshine Ligustrum, these trees provide rapid coverage but grow very tall, often exceeding 50 feet, which can be overwhelming for smaller properties. They are adaptable, low-maintenance, and support environmental benefits like erosion control, but require consistent watering and space for their full height. This makes them perfect for property owners who need immediate privacy and are prepared for eventual large-scale growth.
Pros:- Fast-growing trees that provide immediate privacy and shade
- Low maintenance and easy to plant
- Supports air purification and erosion control
- Suitable for various zones
Cons:- May be shipped dormant during extreme weather
- Requires ongoing watering during establishment
- Potentially very tall, needing pruning and space management
Best for: Property owners needing fast, large-scale privacy solutions and willing to manage tall trees
Not ideal for: Homeowners with limited space or seeking smaller, manageable hedges, since these will grow very tall
- Growth Rate:12 feet per year
- Maximum Height:50-75 feet
- Number of Trees:24
Our verdict“This pick makes the most sense for those needing quick, large-scale privacy with a long-term growth plan.”
Sunshine Ligustrum Plant, 1 Gallon, Golden Foliage Privacy Hedge
The Sunshine Ligustrum offers vibrant golden foliage that creates a bright, attractive privacy screen, especially suitable for zones 7-10. Compared with the Green Wall Willow, which emphasizes rapid growth and windbreak capabilities, the Ligustrum is more restrained in height but excels in maintaining consistent color with minimal maintenance. It’s non-invasive, sterile, and allergy-friendly, making it a good choice for those sensitive to pollen or seeking a tidy landscape. However, in zone 6, it may lose some foliage in winter, reducing its year-round coverage. This plant makes sense for gardeners who prioritize visual appeal and low upkeep over rapid growth.
Pros:- Dense, golden foliage provides excellent privacy
- Non-invasive and sterile, won’t reseed
- Suitable for allergy sufferers
- Maintains bright color year-round in appropriate zones
Cons:- May be semi-deciduous in zone 6, losing some foliage
- Requires full sun for optimal growth
Best for: Homeowners seeking colorful, low-maintenance privacy hedges in milder climates
Not ideal for: Regions with harsh winters (zone 6 or below) or those needing instant coverage
- Size:1 Gallon
- Foliage:Golden
- Zones:7-10
Our verdict“This plant is ideal for those wanting colorful, low-maintenance privacy in suitable zones, but less so for immediate needs or colder climates.”
Perfect Plants Thuja Green Giant Arborvitae, 2 ft (8-Pack), Privacy Trees
The Green Giant Arborvitae in this 8-pack provides an instant, dense green privacy barrier, especially compared to the smaller 20 Emerald Green Arborvitae. Designed for quick coverage, these trees can reach up to 60 feet tall, making them suitable for large yards or commercial landscapes. They grow rapidly and require minimal maintenance, but their size can be a drawback for smaller yards where pruning is necessary to keep them manageable. These trees excel in creating a solid privacy wall with little effort, though they may be overkill for those with limited space or seeking a more modest hedge.
Pros:- Provides dense privacy screening quickly
- Fast-growing and low maintenance
- Suitable for a wide range of zones (5-9)
- Ideal for large landscapes
Cons:- Can grow too tall for small spaces
- Mature size may be overwhelming in compact yards
Best for: Large property owners needing quick, dense privacy with minimal fuss
Not ideal for: Small yards or urban gardens where space and height are limited
- Height:2 ft
- Quantity:8-pack
- Growth Rate:Fast-growing
- Mature Height:Up to 60 ft
- Zones:5-9
Our verdict“This is the best choice for those wanting instant, large-scale privacy with low effort, but not suited for small or constrained spaces.”
Green Wall Willow Privacy Tree Cuttings – Ultra Fast Growing Privacy Screen – Hedge Willow Living Fences, Windbreaks & Borders (10 Cuttings)
The Green Wall Willow cuttings are designed for quick establishment, offering a straightforward way to create privacy screens, windbreaks, or borders with minimal fuss. Compared to more mature trees like the Hybrid Willow, these cuttings establish faster from directly planting in soil, making them accessible for beginners. Their dense growth and rapid expansion support immediate privacy and wind protection, though their growth density depends heavily on proper planting and watering. They require ample space to reach full height, which can be a concern for smaller properties, and demand regular watering during establishment. This makes them ideal for property owners seeking fast, natural screens with minimal initial effort.
Pros:- Rapid growth for fast privacy and coverage
- Easy to plant from cuttings, suitable for beginners
- Low maintenance and highly adaptable
- Supports natural windbreaks and borders
Cons:- Requires space for full growth
- Needs regular watering during establishment
- Growth density depends on proper planting
Best for: Landowners needing quick, natural privacy fences or windbreaks without complex planting
Not ideal for: Small plots or those unable to provide ample space and watering during establishment
- Type:Willow cuttings
- Quantity:10 cuttings
- Growth Rate:Ultra fast
- Usage:Privacy, windbreaks, borders
- Planting Method:Direct in soil
Our verdict“This pick is best for owners wanting rapid, natural privacy with simple planting from cuttings, but it needs space and care during early stages.”
Curled Leaf Privet | 10 Live Quart Size Plants | Ligustrum Japonicum Recurvifolium, Evergreen Flowering Privacy Hedge, Ornamental Shrub
The Curled Leaf Privet stands out for its elegant, evergreen foliage that provides year-round visual privacy, especially in full sun, making it a flexible choice for many landscape styles. Unlike the Emerald Arborvitaes, which are more traditional conifers, this privet offers a softer, more ornamental appearance with curling leaves that add texture and interest. Its low-maintenance nature makes it ideal for homeowners seeking a fuss-free privacy solution, though it does require regular pruning to keep its shape and full sun for optimal growth. Compared to larger, more mature options, it’s better suited for smaller gardens or as a filler plant, not a quick-coverage hedge. This shrub excels in sunny locations and can serve as a standalone feature or border, but may struggle in shaded or heavily shaded areas.
Pros:- Elegant, curling evergreen leaves add visual interest
- Low-maintenance and eco-friendly, requires minimal watering
- Versatile for hedges, borders, or standalone features
Cons:- Requires full sun for healthy growth and optimal appearance
- Needs periodic pruning to maintain shape and density
Best for: Gardeners wanting a decorative, evergreen hedge that’s easy to care for in sunny environments
Not ideal for: Those with limited sun exposure or seeking rapid privacy screening, as it grows slowly and needs ample sunlight
- Expected Blooming Period:Year Round
- Sunlight Exposure:Full Sun
- Soil Type:Sandy Soil
- Brand Name:Florida Foliage
- Manufacturer:Florida Foliage
- Product Type:Shrub & Hedge
Our verdict“This shrub is best suited for sunny gardens where ornamental appeal and ease of care are priorities, but it’s less ideal for shaded or fast-coverage needs.”
Four Pack of Emerald Arborvitaes – Evergreen Privacy Hedge – 1 to 2 Feet Tall
The Four Pack of Emerald Arborvitaes offers an affordable way to establish a quick privacy barrier, especially for those in zones 3-8, where their robustness is well-suited. Compared with the Curled Leaf Privet, which is more ornamental and slow-growing, these arborvitaes provide a more traditional, dense evergreen screen, though they start small at 1-2 feet and will take time to reach full height. Their deciduous nature in winter means they lose leaves seasonally, which can compromise privacy during colder months. This set is ideal for homeowners who want to plant directly in the ground and are patient as the plants mature, but it’s not suited for container growth or immediate coverage. Overall, they excel in permanent ground planting but require time and consistent care to develop into an effective privacy hedge.
Pros:- Includes four plants for rapid hedge formation
- Shipped in gallon pots with clear planting instructions
- Suitable for zones 3-8, covering a wide climate range
Cons:- Deciduous in winter, reducing privacy seasonally
- Small size at planting means it takes years to fully mature
Best for: Homeowners seeking a cost-effective way to establish a fast-growing evergreen privacy hedge in their garden
Not ideal for: Those needing immediate privacy or living in shaded or container-based environments, since these plants are slow to mature and only grow in the ground
- Quantity:4 plants
- Size:1 to 2 feet tall
- Plant Type:Emerald Arborvitae
- Growth Zone:3-8
- Sunlight:Full to part sun
- Planting Method:Ground only
Our verdict“This set is perfect for budget-conscious gardeners planning for long-term privacy, but less ideal for immediate screening or container planting.”
How We Picked
I evaluated each shrub based on growth speed, density, ease of care, durability, and overall value. Priority was given to plants that quickly establish dense coverage with minimal maintenance, making them suitable for different budgets and skill levels. The ranking reflects a balance between performance and cost, with premium options highlighted for those seeking long-term, low-maintenance privacy. Plants that require frequent pruning or have inconsistent growth patterns were rated lower, ensuring that recommendations are practical for most homeowners.Factors to Consider When Choosing Privacy Shrubs
Choosing the right privacy shrub depends on several factors that influence how well it will serve your needs over time. Beyond initial appearance, consider growth rate, maintenance needs, and how the plant fits into your climate. Understanding these factors helps prevent common mistakes like choosing slow-growing varieties or ones that require intensive care, which can lead to disappointment and extra expense.Growth Rate and Time to Privacy
Fast-growing shrubs like the Thuja Green Giant or Hybrid Willow can establish privacy within a few seasons, making them ideal for immediate needs. Slower-growing options may cost less initially but require patience and more frequent pruning. Knowing your timeline helps determine whether to prioritize rapid coverage or longer-term durability.
Climate Compatibility
Not all shrubs thrive in every climate zone. Check your USDA hardiness zone before selecting a plant. Evergreen varieties typically handle cold better but may need specific soil or moisture conditions. Matching the shrub to your local environment reduces the risk of disease, poor growth, or dieback.
Maintenance and Pruning
Some shrubs like boxwoods or privets require regular pruning to maintain shape and density, especially in tight spaces. Others, such as the Green Giant Arborvitae, need minimal trimming once established. Consider your willingness to prune and whether you prefer low-maintenance plants or those that respond well to shaping for aesthetic purposes.
Size and Spacing
Measure your space carefully. Larger, mature plants provide immediate privacy but cost more and may require more planting space. Smaller or liner plants are more affordable but need time and space to grow into full coverage. Proper spacing during planting is essential for dense privacy screens without gaps.
Longevity and Seasonal Changes
Evergreens like the Arborvitae or Privet keep their leaves year-round, offering continuous privacy. Deciduous shrubs such as willows or certain privets lose leaves in winter, temporarily reducing privacy. Decide whether you want a permanent barrier or are okay with seasonal gaps, influencing your choice accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can privacy shrubs be grown in containers?
Yes, many privacy shrubs can be grown in containers, especially smaller varieties like Privet or Ligustrum. Container growing allows more control over soil and moisture, making it easier to adapt to less-than-ideal conditions. However, container plants may need more frequent watering and fertilizing, and their growth rate might be slightly slower due to limited root space. Ensure your chosen shrub is suitable for container life and select a large enough pot for healthy root development.
How tall do privacy shrubs typically get?
The height of privacy shrubs varies widely depending on the species and variety. For example, the Green Giant Arborvitae can reach 20-30 feet, while smaller options like Privet or Ligustrum usually top out around 6-8 feet. When planning your hedge, consider both the mature height and your local space constraints to select a shrub that provides privacy without overwhelming your landscape.
How often should I prune my privacy shrubs?
Pruning frequency depends on the shrub type and your desired shape. Evergreen species like Arborvitae generally need light pruning once or twice a year to maintain density and shape. Deciduous shrubs such as willows may require less frequent pruning, mainly to control size. Regular maintenance ensures the plants stay healthy and look tidy, but over-pruning can stress the plant and reduce privacy effectiveness.
Are fast-growing shrubs less durable over time?
Fast-growing shrubs tend to be more adaptable initially, but their long-term durability depends on species and care. For example, hybrid willows grow rapidly but may be less wind-resistant and more prone to disease if not maintained properly. Conversely, slower-growing evergreens often develop denser, more resilient foliage over time. Balancing growth rate with longevity is key to selecting a shrub that provides lasting privacy.
What is the best time of year to plant privacy shrubs?
The optimal planting time generally coincides with the plant’s dormancy period, typically early spring or late fall, depending on your climate. Planting during these times reduces stress and encourages healthy root establishment. Avoid planting during extreme heat or cold, as this can hinder growth and increase transplant shock. Proper timing, combined with good soil preparation, supports quicker establishment and better privacy coverage.
Conclusion
For most homeowners seeking quick, reliable privacy, the Thuja Green Giant Arborvitae remains the best overall choice thanks to its rapid growth and dense coverage. Budget-conscious buyers will find the Curled Leaf Privet offers solid value with decent privacy at a lower cost. Those prioritizing low maintenance and year-round coverage should consider evergreen options like the Sunshine Ligustrum or Emerald Green Arborvitae. Beginners or those with limited planting space might prefer smaller, manageable shrubs like the Four Pack of Emerald Arborvitaes. Ultimately, your choice depends on your specific privacy needs, climate, and willingness to care for your landscape.
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