When selecting privacy shrubs, the goal is to find plants that provide effective coverage, grow quickly, and suit your landscape. The Willow Hybrid Trees for Privacy stand out for rapid growth, making them ideal for quick privacy solutions. The Emerald Green Arborvitae offers evergreen coverage that stays lush year-round, while the Golden Vicary Privet provides a vibrant, fast-growing hedge for those seeking colorful foliage. Every option involves tradeoffs—some grow faster but require more maintenance, others stay evergreen but take longer to establish. Continue reading for a detailed comparison to help you choose the best privacy shrub for your needs.
Key Takeaways
- Fast-growing options like Willow Hybrid and Privet are best for immediate privacy but may require regular pruning.
- Evergreen varieties such as Emerald Green Arborvitae provide year-round coverage with less maintenance once established.
- Plant size and mature height vary significantly, affecting space planning and long-term privacy goals.
- Price and availability can influence the choice, with bulk packs offering better value for larger landscapes.
- Selecting the right shrub depends on climate, soil type, and desired aesthetic, not just growth speed.
| privacy shrub | Height | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Willow Hybrid Trees for Privac | — | 10 cuttings |
| Emerald Green Arborvitae | 5-6 ft | — |
| Green Wall Willow Privacy Tree | — | 10 cuttings |
| 20 Emerald Green Arborvitae Tr | 6-12 inches | 20 plants |
| White Tower Privacy Grass | 10 ft | — |
| 6 Highlander Boxwood | 6-7 ft | 6 plants |
| 10 Emerald Green Arborvitae Tr | 6-12 inches | 10 |
| Brighter Blooms Thuja Green Gi | 2-3 ft | — |
| 2 Golden Vicary Privet Shrubs | — | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Willow Hybrid Trees for Privacy – Fast Growing Austree Willow Cuttings
This option stands out for its exceptional growth rate, reaching up to 10 feet annually, making it perfect for those who need quick privacy solutions. Compared with the Green Wall Willow cuttings, these are easier to root in water, but they demand consistent watering and ample space for spreading. The rapid height gain is ideal for creating immediate visual or sound barriers, though their vigorous growth requires ongoing maintenance and space management. Tradeoffs include high water dependence and the need for regular pruning, which might not suit someone looking for low-maintenance options. This pick makes the most sense for homeowners with large properties who want instant privacy and are prepared to manage fast growth.
Pros:- Extremely fast growth up to 10 feet per year
- Easy to root in water, simplifying initial planting
- Effective for quick visual and sound privacy
Cons:- Requires frequent watering for optimal growth
- Needs significant space for proper planting and growth
Best for: Homeowners seeking rapid privacy screens on large properties with ample water access and space for fast-growing trees.
Not ideal for: Urban residents with limited space or those seeking low-maintenance, slow-growing privacy plants.
- Quantity:10 cuttings
- Plant Type:Hybrid Willow
- Growth Rate:Up to 10 feet per year
- Rooting Method:Root easily in water
- Planting Depth:6 inches deep
Our verdict“This is best suited for those who prioritize immediate privacy over maintenance effort and have adequate space.”
Emerald Green Arborvitae, 5-6 ft
This pick makes the most sense for those seeking a hassle-free, year-round green privacy screen, especially in limited spaces. Compared to the 20 Emerald Green Arborvitae Trees pack, this individual plant is easier to manage for smaller gardens or existing landscapes. Its minimal pruning needs and adaptability to various soil conditions make it a reliable choice, though regional restrictions mean it can’t be shipped everywhere, limiting its availability. If you prefer a straightforward evergreen that requires little upkeep, this model fits that need, but it might take some time to reach full height and density. Tradeoffs involve slower screening establishment and regional shipping limits.
Pros:- Low-maintenance with minimal pruning
- Adapts well to various soil types and weather
- Ideal for creating privacy screens in small spaces
Cons:- Limited regional shipping options
- Takes time to grow to desired height
Best for: Gardeners in regions where shipping is available, looking for a low-maintenance, evergreen privacy screen for small to medium spaces.
Not ideal for: Urban dwellers in restricted zones or those needing immediate, tall privacy barriers.
- Height:5-6 ft
- Type:Evergreen Arborvitae
Our verdict“This is perfect for those wanting a hassle-free evergreen privacy hedge with minimal upkeep in suitable regions.”
Green Wall Willow Privacy Tree Cuttings – Fast Growing Hedge for Privacy and Windbreaks
This pick excels at establishing a dense, lush privacy barrier rapidly, making it ideal for windbreaks or natural fences. Compared with the Willow Hybrid Trees, these cuttings are easier for beginners to plant and establish quickly, but they can become invasive if not pruned regularly. Their rapid growth ensures quick screening, yet their maintenance needs and potential invasiveness require consistent management. This option works best for homeowners wanting quick, natural privacy that can double as a wind barrier, provided they are prepared for ongoing upkeep. Tradeoffs include pruning requirements and invasive growth risks.
Pros:- Establishes quickly and creates dense coverage
- Easy to plant from cuttings, suitable for beginners
- Provides effective wind protection and privacy
Cons:- May require regular pruning to prevent invasive spread
- Potential for invasive growth if unmanaged
Best for: Property owners seeking a fast, dense privacy hedge that also functions as a windbreak, willing to manage growth regularly.
Not ideal for: People wanting low-maintenance, slow-growing privacy solutions or those in regions where invasive species are problematic.
- Quantity:10 cuttings
- Growth Rate:Ultra fast
- Uses:Privacy screen, windbreak, natural fence
- Planting Distance:2-3 feet apart
Our verdict“This is ideal for those who want rapid, dense natural privacy with the willingness to perform regular maintenance.”
20 Emerald Green Arborvitae Trees/Shrubs – 6-12″ Tall Live Plants
This pack provides a generous number of small, bareroot Emerald Green Arborvitae plants, making it suitable for establishing a cost-effective, dense privacy hedge over time. Compared with the single 5-6 ft option, these younger plants require patience to reach full height, but they offer excellent value for larger projects. Their natural pyramid shape means they will need minimal pruning as they mature. However, being bareroot, they demand careful handling and patience during planting and growth phases. This choice is best for budget-conscious buyers willing to wait for full privacy, unlike more mature plants that deliver immediate screening. Tradeoffs include slower growth and the need for proper planting techniques.
Pros:- Creates dense, impenetrable privacy over time
- Natural pyramid shape requires minimal pruning
- High quantity for larger landscape projects
Cons:- Small initial size means slower privacy establishment
- Bareroot plants need careful handling during planting
Best for: Budget-minded landscapers or homeowners planning for long-term privacy with patience for growth.
Not ideal for: Those needing instant privacy or who cannot handle bareroot plants requiring careful planting and time to mature.
- Quantity:20 plants
- Height:6-12 inches
- Type:Evergreen Arborvitae
- Variety:Thuja occidentalis ‘Smaragd’
- Shipping:Bareroot
Our verdict“This is an excellent choice for those patient enough to wait for mature privacy, prioritizing value over immediate screening.”
White Tower Privacy Grass – Live Miscanthus Rhizomes, 10 ft Tall Hardy Perennial Screening
This choice stands out for its majestic height of up to 10 feet and ornamental white plumes, making it a visually striking privacy option that also provides wind and noise reduction. Compared with the Willow cuttings, it offers a more structured, less invasive form of screening that adds aesthetic value. However, it requires significant space to spread via rhizomes and can take some time to fully establish. Its low maintenance needs and drought tolerance make it suitable for a variety of climates, yet patience is needed during initial growth. This makes it ideal for owners who want a tall, ornamental privacy barrier that doubles as landscape appeal, but they must accept the growth period and space requirements. Tradeoffs include establishment time and space for spreading.
Pros:- Creates a tall, dense privacy barrier up to 10 ft
- Beautiful white feathered plumes add ornamental value
- Low maintenance and drought tolerant
Cons:- Requires space for rhizome spreading
- Takes time to fully establish and reach full height
Best for: Homeowners seeking a tall, ornamental privacy screen that enhances landscape beauty and provides windbreaks, willing to wait for full growth.
Not ideal for: Small properties or those needing immediate privacy, due to the time needed for full height and spreading.
- Height:10 ft
- Type:Miscanthus Rhizomes
- Perennial:Yes
- Growth Rate:Fast
- Hardiness:Cold-weather hardy
- Spread:Through rhizomes and seed
Our verdict“This is best suited for those wanting a tall, ornamental privacy feature with landscape appeal and patience for growth.”
6 Highlander Boxwood – Fast-Growing Evergreen Shrub for Privacy Hedges, Screens & Borders
This Highlander Boxwood set stands out for its rapid growth and dense evergreen foliage, making it an excellent choice for quick privacy screens compared to the slower-maturing Emerald Green Arborvitae. Its glossy leaves stay vibrant year-round, which means you get consistent coverage without seasonal gaps. While natural variations in size may require some pruning to achieve a uniform hedge, its cold-hardiness and minimal care needs make it suitable for most landscapers. The main tradeoff is limited shipping zones, which could delay or complicate delivery for some buyers. Compared to the more mature Thuja Green Giant, these boxwoods provide faster initial coverage, though they may require more frequent pruning to maintain uniformity. This pick makes the most sense for homeowners seeking reliable, low-maintenance privacy with quick results.
Pros:- Fast-growing and dense for quick privacy coverage
- Evergreen foliage provides year-round color
- Cold-hardy and low-maintenance
Cons:- Natural size variation may require pruning for uniformity
- Limited shipping to certain states (Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico)
Best for: Homeowners wanting fast, dense evergreen privacy screens with minimal ongoing effort.
Not ideal for: Buyers in regions outside USDA Zones 5-9 or those seeking larger, mature plants immediately.
- Quantity:6 plants
- Plant Type:Evergreen shrub
- Variety:Buxus sempervirens ‘Highlander’
- Size:3.5-inch cubes
- Height:6-7 ft
- Width:2-3 ft
Our verdict“A highly adaptable and fast-growing evergreen choice perfect for quick, low-effort privacy solutions.”
10 Emerald Green Arborvitae Trees/Shrubs – 6-12″ Tall Live Plants – Thuja occidentalis ‘Smaragd’ – (10 Pack)
This pack of Emerald Green Arborvitae is ideal for those seeking a naturally perfect pyramid shape that needs little pruning, making it a low-maintenance option compared to the more manicured Highlander Boxwood. Its vibrant green foliage remains lush throughout the year, providing a reliable privacy barrier. Because these are small initial plants, they require time to grow into full screens, unlike larger, ready-to-go plants like the Green Giant. The bareroot delivery demands careful handling and patience, which may not suit immediate privacy needs. Compared with the Golden Vicary Privet, these arborvitae offer a more natural, evergreen appearance but require more time to reach desired height. This makes them better suited for buyers who prioritize a natural look and are willing to wait for mature coverage.
Pros:- Creates dense, impenetrable privacy screens
- Maintains vibrant green color year-round
- Requires no pruning due to natural shape
Cons:- Limited initial size, slow to mature
- Bareroot plants need careful handling and patience
Best for: Gardeners preferring evergreen privacy screens with minimal pruning and a natural aesthetic.
Not ideal for: Those needing instant privacy or who prefer fast, dense hedges with immediate impact.
- Quantity:10
- Height:6-12 inches
- Type:Emerald Green Arborvitae
- Scientific Name:Thuja occidentalis ‘Smaragd’
- Shipping:Bareroot
Our verdict“A natural, evergreen privacy option best suited for gardeners willing to wait for full maturity.”
Brighter Blooms Thuja Green Giant Arborvitae, 2-3 ft
This Green Giant Arborvitae from Brighter Blooms offers a remarkable growth rate of 3-5 feet annually, making it ideal for quick privacy barriers compared to slower-growing options like the Highlander Boxwood. Its uniform, lush appearance requires no pruning to maintain, appealing to gardeners who want fast results with minimal effort. However, its limited height range (2-3 feet) at purchase means you’ll need to plant and wait for it to mature unless you buy larger sizes, which could increase cost. Shipping restrictions exclude some states like Alaska and Hawaii. When comparing to the 10 Emerald Green Arborvitae, this plant’s rapid growth makes it better for immediate coverage, but it demands favorable conditions for optimal growth. This choice suits those seeking instant privacy and a lush, uniform hedge quickly.
Pros:- Fast-growing, provides quick privacy
- Requires no pruning for a uniform look
- Suitable for gardeners of all skill levels
Cons:- Limited initial height, growth depends on conditions
- Not available to all states (AK, AZ, HI, OR)
Best for: Landscapers or homeowners needing rapid privacy with minimal pruning effort.
Not ideal for: Buyers with limited space or those expecting immediate full-height coverage without waiting.
- Height:2-3 ft
- Growth Rate:3-5 ft per year
- Plant Type:Evergreen Arborvitae
Our verdict“An excellent solution for rapid privacy needs, especially when quick results are desired.”
2 Golden Vicary Privet Shrubs – Fast-Growing Golden Hedge for Privacy Screens, Borders & Landscaping (Ligustrum vicaryi) in 3.5″ Cubes
The Golden Vicary Privet offers a vibrant, golden-yellow foliage that adds a striking visual element to any privacy hedge, standing out from the more traditional green options like the Highlander Boxwood. Its fast growth and dense habit make it a reliable screen, comparable to the Golden Vicary Privet’s reputation for ornamental appeal. While it grows quickly and responds well to pruning, its deciduous nature means it will lose leaves in winter, unlike the evergreen Highlander. This makes it less suitable for year-round privacy in colder climates but perfect for seasonal screens that need to be both functional and decorative. Compared to the more neutral green arborvitae, this shrub provides a bright, eye-catching barrier, though it requires more frequent pruning to maintain its shape. It’s ideal for gardeners who want an ornamental, fast-growing hedge that adds color.
Pros:- Bright, golden-yellow foliage adds ornamental charm
- Fast-growing and dense for effective privacy
- Responsive to pruning for shaping
Cons:- Deciduous, loses leaves in winter
- Seasonal appearance may require extra planning
Best for: Gardeners seeking a colorful, fast-growing hedge with ornamental appeal and minimal care.
Not ideal for: Buyers in colder zones who need year-round evergreen privacy or those preferring low-maintenance shrubs with winter coverage.
Our verdict“A vibrant, fast-growing shrub ideal for seasonal privacy and ornamental landscaping in milder climates.”
How We Picked
This selection process focused on plants that reliably deliver privacy, considering growth rate, durability, and ease of care. We evaluated each shrub based on its adaptability to different climates, visual appeal, maintenance needs, and overall value. Shrubs that grow quickly but require constant pruning were balanced against those with slower growth but lower upkeep. Our rankings prioritize plants that strike a practical balance between immediate privacy benefits and long-term landscape integration, ensuring options for both novice gardeners and experienced landscapers.Factors to Consider When Choosing Privacy Shrubs
Choosing the right privacy shrub involves more than just selecting a fast-growing plant. Consider how much space you have, your climate zone, and how much maintenance you’re willing to do. Evergreen options offer year-round coverage, but may take longer to establish compared to fast-growing deciduous or semi-evergreen varieties. Budget also plays a role; larger quantities or premium varieties will cost more upfront but might save in maintenance or replacement costs over time. Understanding these factors helps you select a shrub that will thrive in your landscape and meet your privacy needs.Growth Rate and Maturity Size
While fast-growing shrubs are appealing for immediate privacy, they often require regular trimming to maintain shape and size. Conversely, slower growers might need less maintenance but leave you waiting longer for full coverage. Consider your available space—some shrubs can reach 10 feet or more, which impacts long-term planning. Think about your landscape’s scale and how much height or width you need now versus in a few years to avoid overcrowding or under-coverage.
Evergreen vs. Deciduous
Evergreen shrubs like Arborvitae provide continuous privacy without seasonal gaps, making them ideal for year-round screening. Deciduous options, such as Privet, shed leaves in winter, which might temporarily reduce privacy but can be easier to manage and more adaptable to certain soils. Semi-evergreen plants combine features of both, offering moderate coverage in winter and full foliage in summer. Your choice depends on your climate, aesthetic preference, and whether you prioritize consistent privacy or seasonal flexibility.
Climate Compatibility
Not all shrubs thrive in every climate zone. Some, like Willow Hybrid, are more tolerant of wet or variable conditions, while others like Privet prefer well-drained soils and moderate temperatures. Always check your USDA hardiness zone and soil type before buying. Selecting a plant suited to your climate reduces the risk of disease, pest issues, and poor growth, ensuring your privacy hedge remains healthy and effective for years.
Maintenance and Pruning Needs
Some shrubs, like Privet and Privet-like plants, respond well to regular pruning, allowing you to shape and control their growth. Others, such as Arborvitae, require less frequent trimming once established but may need occasional thinning to prevent legginess. Consider how much time you can devote to upkeep—low-maintenance plants save effort but might not be as customizable in appearance. Think about your landscape goals and maintenance capacity when choosing your shrub.
Cost and Plant Quantity
Bulk purchasing options often reduce the cost per plant, making them better suited for larger privacy screens. However, larger or more mature plants come at a higher initial expense and may require more careful planting and establishment time. Budgeting for the total number of plants needed for your desired coverage is essential. Also, consider long-term value—investing in higher-quality, well-suited plants can reduce replacement costs and maintenance over the years.
Frequently Asked Questions
How fast do privacy shrubs typically grow?
The growth rate varies widely depending on the species. Fast-growing shrubs like Privet and Willow Hybrid can add several feet of height in a single season, making them ideal for quick privacy. Others, such as Arborvitae, tend to grow more slowly but provide more stable, evergreen coverage once established. Your local climate and soil conditions will also influence growth speed, so selecting a species suited to your environment can help ensure faster results.
Can I plant privacy shrubs close together for instant coverage?
Planting shrubs closer than their recommended spacing can create an immediate visual barrier, but it risks overcrowding, which may lead to poor air circulation and disease. For faster privacy, consider planting a mix of fast-growing, smaller plants initially and gradually adding more mature plants over time. Proper spacing supports healthy growth and ensures the hedge remains dense and attractive in the long run, rather than becoming overgrown or patchy.
Are evergreen shrubs suitable for all climates?
While many evergreen shrubs like Arborvitae are versatile, their suitability depends on your specific climate zone. Some varieties tolerate colder temperatures, while others thrive in milder conditions. It’s important to choose a species that matches your local climate to avoid winter damage or poor growth. Consulting with local nurseries or extension offices can provide insights into which evergreen shrubs perform best in your area.
What maintenance is required for privacy shrubs?
Maintenance needs depend on the plant variety and your privacy goals. Most evergreens require occasional pruning to maintain shape and density, while fast-growing deciduous shrubs may need more frequent trimming. Mulching and watering are essential for healthy growth, especially during establishment. Regular inspection for pests and disease also helps keep your hedge in top condition, reducing long-term upkeep and ensuring reliable privacy.
How long does it take for a privacy shrub to establish fully?
Most shrubs take one to three years to become fully established, depending on species and planting conditions. Fast growers like Privet can reach effective privacy levels within a year, while slower-growing varieties like Arborvitae may need longer. Proper watering, fertilizing, and pruning during the first few years promote healthy development and quicker establishment, ensuring your hedge provides privacy sooner and remains robust over time.
Conclusion
For those seeking an immediate, dense privacy barrier, Willow Hybrid Trees for Privacy or Privet Shrubs are excellent choices, especially if you’re prepared for regular pruning. If year-round greenery with minimal effort is your priority, the Emerald Green Arborvitae offers a reliable evergreen solution. Budget-conscious gardeners will find value in bulk packs of smaller plants, while those wanting a colorful, fast-growing hedge should consider the Golden Vicary Privet. Beginners may prefer the lower-maintenance options, whereas experienced landscapers might opt for premium varieties like Thuja Green Giant for maximum height and coverage. Tailor your choice to your landscape, climate, and maintenance willingness for best results.
