If you’re seeking effective shrubs for privacy, this guide highlights the best options to create a natural, lush barrier. The Emerald Green Arborvitae stands out as the best overall for dense, evergreen coverage. For faster screening, the Highlander Boxwood provides quick growth and versatility, while the Carolina Cherry Laurel offers a colorful alternative. Choosing the right shrub involves balancing growth rate, maintenance, and aesthetic appeal. Keep reading to see how these options compare and which suits your landscape best.
Key Takeaways
- The Emerald Green Arborvitae offers dense evergreen coverage, making it ideal for year-round privacy.
- Fast-growing options like the Highlander Boxwood can establish screening quickly but may require more maintenance.
- Deciduous shrubs like the Carolina Cherry Laurel provide seasonal privacy and colorful foliage, suited for aesthetic landscaping.
- Size and mature height vary widely, impacting how much space a shrub will cover over time.
- Tradeoffs include growth speed versus maintenance needs; faster-growing shrubs often need more pruning.
| shrubs for privacy | Height | Plant Type | Quantity | Size |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20 Emerald Green Arborvitae Tr | 6-12 inches | — | 20 plants | — |
| 6 Highlander Boxwood | 6–7 ft | Evergreen shrub | 6 plants | 3.5-inch cubes |
| Carolina Cherry Laurel Shrub | 4-6 inches | Live shrub | — | — |
| Curled Leaf Privet | 10 Live Q | — | Ligustrum Japonicum Recurvifolium | 10 plants | Quart size |
| Carolina Sapphire | 1 Quart Si | — | — | — | 1 Quart |
| Waxleaf Privet | 8-10 feet | Shrub | — | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
20 Emerald Green Arborvitae Trees/Shrubs – 6-12″ Tall Live Plants | Evergreen Privacy Screen Hedges/Bushes – Thuja occidentalis ‘Smaragd’ (20 Pack)
This pack of 20 Emerald Green Arborvitae stands out for creating dense, impenetrable privacy screens, especially when compared to smaller or less structured options. Their natural pyramid shape and vibrant evergreen foliage make them ideal for year-round screening without much fuss. While they require planting and patience to establish, their low-maintenance nature is a key advantage. They excel in providing continuous coverage but are limited initially by their small size at planting, which means a waiting period before full privacy is achieved. Compared to the faster-growing boxwoods, these shrubs develop a more natural, uniform hedge but need more time to fill out. Perfect for gardeners seeking long-term, low-maintenance privacy, this option offers a reliable landscape solution with minimal ongoing effort.
Pros:- Creates dense, impenetrable privacy screens
- Low-maintenance with natural pyramid shape
- Vibrant green foliage year-round
Cons:- Requires planting and care to establish
- Limited size at planting stage (6-12 inches)
Best for: Homeowners wanting a natural, maintenance-light privacy screen that matures into a dense hedge over time
Not ideal for: Immediate privacy needs or small landscapes where quick coverage is essential, as these start small and require patience
- Quantity:20 plants
- Height:6-12 inches
- Type:Bareroot live plants
- Plant species:Thuja occidentalis ‘Smaragd’
- Shape:Pyramid
Our verdict“This pick is best for those seeking a durable, low-effort privacy hedge that matures into a lush barrier over years.”
6 Highlander Boxwood – Fast-Growing Evergreen Shrub for Privacy Hedges, Screens & Borders (Buxus sempervirens ‘Highlander’) in 3.5″ Cubes, Live Plants
Compared to the slow-establishing arborvitae, the Highlander Boxwood offers quick coverage, reaching 6–7 feet in just a few years, making it ideal for those needing immediate privacy. Its dense, evergreen foliage and compact size make it suitable for both screens and decorative borders. The plants are cold-hardy and require minimal care, but their natural variations can lead to uneven appearances initially, and they need regular pruning to maintain shape. Excluding buyers in USDA Zones 10 and above, this shrub is perfect for property owners who want a fast, low-maintenance hedge but are willing to prune occasionally. Compared with Carolina Cherry Laurel, the boxwood is less vigorous but offers a more uniform, formal look.
Pros:- Fast-growing and dense for quick coverage
- Suitable for privacy screens and borders
- Cold-hardy and low-maintenance
Cons:- Natural variations in size and appearance may occur
- Requires occasional pruning to maintain shape
Best for: Property owners needing quick, manageable privacy in moderate climates with minimal ongoing maintenance
Not ideal for: Large, mature privacy screens or gardeners seeking a naturally wild look, as boxwoods tend to stay more formal and require pruning
- Quantity:6 plants
- Plant Type:Evergreen shrub
- Size:3.5-inch cubes
- Height:6–7 ft
- Width:2–3 ft
- USDA Zones:5–9
- Color:Glossy green foliage
Our verdict“This shrub makes the most sense for those who want immediate privacy with minimal fuss and are okay with some shaping.”
Carolina Cherry Laurel Shrub – 4-6″ Tall Live Plant in 3″ Pot
Compared to the smaller, slower-establishing arborvitae, the Carolina Cherry Laurel provides an immediate privacy barrier thanks to its dense, glossy green foliage. Its rapid growth rate of 2-3 feet annually makes it suitable for quick screening, while its seasonal flowers and berries add visual interest year-round. It’s a low-maintenance choice, adaptable to a variety of soil and light conditions. However, its small initial size means it takes time to fully block views, so patience is necessary for complete privacy. If you’re seeking instant coverage in a compact space, this shrub offers a flexible, attractive option, though it may need pruning to keep a desired shape as it matures.
Pros:- Creates quick privacy with dense foliage
- Year-round visual appeal with flowers and berries
- Low maintenance and adaptable
Cons:- Small initial size may delay full privacy
- Growth rate can vary based on conditions
Best for: Gardeners needing quick, attractive privacy in small or medium-sized gardens
Not ideal for: Large-scale privacy screens where immediate coverage is less critical, or gardeners wanting a very mature hedge from the start
- Height:4-6 inches
- Pot Size:3 inches
- Plant Type:Live shrub
- Growth Rate:2-3 ft/year
- Seasonal Interest:Flowers and berries
Our verdict“Ideal for those who want instant privacy with seasonal beauty, but should plan for growth time to reach full coverage.”
Curled Leaf Privet | 10 Live Quart Size Plants | Ligustrum Japonicum Recurvifolium
The Curled Leaf Privet offers a lush, ornamental look with its distinctive curled leaves, making it a decorative choice compared to the more utilitarian arborvitae or boxwoods. Its evergreen nature and full sun preference mean it keeps a vibrant look year-round, and it adapts well to various uses, from hedges to standalone specimens. While it’s easy to care for, it requires full sunlight for optimal growth and needs space to reach its mature size. This shrub is ideal for gardeners who want a visually interesting privacy element that’s low-maintenance but may not suit shaded or very small yards where sun is limited.
Pros:- Low-maintenance and easy to care for
- Versatile for hedges, borders, or standalone use
- Evergreen year-round appeal
- Eco-friendly water conservation
Cons:- Requires full sun for best growth
- May need space for mature size
Best for: Landscapers seeking a low-maintenance, visually appealing hedge or accent plant with year-round color
Not ideal for: Shaded gardens or small spaces where full sun cannot be guaranteed, as it needs ample sunlight to thrive
- Plant Type:Ligustrum Japonicum Recurvifolium
- Quantity:10 plants
- Size:Quart size
- Evergreen:Yes
- Usage:Hedge, border, standalone
Our verdict“This shrub is perfect for those wanting a decorative, easy-care privacy element in sunny landscapes.”
Carolina Sapphire | 1 Quart Size Tree | Cupressus arizonica ‘Carolina Sapphire’ | Privacy Screen | Evergreen Landscaping Tree
Compared with the smaller shrubs, the Carolina Sapphire offers a faster-growing, taller option for privacy that also doubles as a landscape feature. Its striking silver-blue foliage provides a unique visual element, especially when used in larger properties or along property lines. It adapts well to full sun and various soils, making it a versatile choice for those wanting a quick, evergreen barrier. However, it may require regular pruning to maintain its shape and can be sensitive to extreme drought conditions. For gardeners prioritizing a bold, fast-growing tree that adds color and privacy, this option delivers impressive results, especially when combined with lower-growing hedges like boxwoods or arborvitae.
Pros:- Fast-growing with dense foliage for privacy
- Striking silver-blue color adds visual appeal
- Adapts well to full sun and various soils
Cons:- May require regular pruning to shape
- Potential sensitivity to extreme drought
Best for: Large yard owners looking for a fast-growing, visually distinctive privacy screen and landscape statement
Not ideal for: Small gardens or those seeking a very formal, neat hedge, as this tree can require regular shaping and space to grow
- Size:1 Quart
- Type:Evergreen Tree
- Scientific Name:Cupressus arizonica ‘Carolina Sapphire’
- Uses:Privacy Screen, Landscaping
Our verdict“This tree is ideal for property owners seeking a quick, standout privacy feature with visual interest.”
Waxleaf Privet – 10 Live Plants 2″ Pot – Evergreen Privacy Hedge
The Waxleaf Privet stands out for its ability to quickly establish privacy with minimal fuss, making it ideal for those who need fast results. Compared to the Emerald Green Arborvitae, which grows more slowly but offers a denser, more uniform hedge, the Privet adapts easily to sun and partial shade, giving it an edge for varied garden conditions. Its fragrant white flowers and blue-black fruit add ornamental value, though the shrub can be semi-evergreen in cooler climates, reducing its year-round privacy potential. The large mature size means it requires space and regular pruning, especially for smaller gardens, and if left unchecked, it can become invasive. This pick makes the most sense for homeowners seeking quick, adaptable privacy with low maintenance, but less so for those with limited space or in colder regions.
Pros:- Establishes privacy rapidly, reducing wait time
- Adaptable to sun and partial shade conditions
- Low-maintenance, versatile for different garden styles
- Fragrant white flowers and ornamental fruit
Cons:- Can be semi-evergreen in cooler climates, reducing winter privacy
- Large mature size demands space and regular pruning
- Potential for invasive growth if not properly maintained
Best for: Homeowners who want a fast-growing, adaptable hedge that provides immediate privacy and can thrive in a variety of light conditions
Not ideal for: Gardeners with limited space or in colder climates where semi-evergreen performance may be unreliable
- Plant Type:Shrub
- Height:8-10 feet
- Pot Size:2 inches
- Features:Fast-growing, evergreen or semi-evergreen, fragrant flowers, blue-black fruit
Our verdict“This shrub is best suited for those who need quick, flexible privacy and have space for ongoing maintenance.”
How We Picked
Our evaluation focused on performance, growth rate, ease of maintenance, and overall durability. We prioritized plants that deliver reliable privacy with minimal upkeep while considering how quickly they establish screening. Plants with year-round foliage and resistance to pests or disease earned higher scores. The ranking reflects a balance between affordability, growth characteristics, and aesthetic versatility, making these shrubs suitable for a variety of landscape styles and needs.| shrubs for privacy | Plant Type |
|---|---|
| 20 Emerald Green Arborvitae Tr | — |
| 6 Highlander Boxwood | Evergreen shrub |
| Carolina Cherry Laurel Shrub | Live shrub |
| Curled Leaf Privet | 10 Live Q | Ligustrum Japonicum Recurvifolium |
| Carolina Sapphire | 1 Quart Si | — |
| Waxleaf Privet | Shrub |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Shrubs For Privacy
When selecting shrubs for privacy, understanding key factors ensures you choose plants suited to your landscape, climate, and desired maintenance level. Not all shrubs grow at the same rate or require the same care, so weighing these considerations helps prevent common mistakes like overplanting or choosing incompatible species. The right shrub should provide consistent screening, fit your space, and match your aesthetic preferences without demanding excessive upkeep.Growth Rate and Maturity Size
Consider how quickly you want to establish privacy and how tall or dense the shrubs will be at maturity. Fast-growing shrubs like the Highlander Boxwood can provide immediate screening but often need regular pruning to maintain shape. Conversely, slower growers like the Emerald Green Arborvitae offer more gradual coverage but tend to be more self-sustaining once established. Knowing your space limits and privacy needs will guide you toward the right growth rate.
Maintenance and Pruning Needs
Some shrubs require frequent trimming to keep them dense and tidy, while others are more forgiving. Evergreen species like the Waxleaf Privet tend to be low-maintenance, but deciduous or less dense plants may need regular pruning for optimal privacy. Overlooking maintenance needs can result in overgrown, unruly screens or gaps in coverage, so choose a shrub that aligns with the time you’re willing to invest.
Climate Compatibility
Ensure the shrub you select is suited to your local climate. Hardy evergreens like the Carolina Sapphire perform well in dry, arid conditions, while others might struggle with frost or excessive moisture. Compatibility reduces the risk of plant failure and minimizes additional care. Check USDA zones and specific soil requirements before making your choice.
Aesthetic Appeal and Seasonal Interest
While privacy is the primary goal, considering the visual impact is important. Some shrubs, such as the Carolina Cherry Laurel, offer vibrant foliage or flowers that enhance your landscape’s beauty. Deciduous options may provide seasonal privacy but leave gaps in winter, so consider mixed planting if year-round coverage is desired. Balancing privacy needs with landscape aesthetics can lead to a more satisfying result.
Cost and Longevity
Higher-quality plants or more mature specimens typically cost more but may establish faster and last longer. Cheaper, younger plants could require more time and effort to reach the desired height or density. Investing in robust, healthy plants can reduce replacement costs and maintenance over time, making them a more economical choice in the long run.
Frequently Asked Questions
How fast do evergreen shrubs for privacy typically grow?
Growth rate varies among species; fast-growing options like the Highlander Boxwood can add several inches per year, establishing privacy within a few seasons. Slower growers such as certain arborvitae varieties may take longer to reach full height but tend to be more stable and require less pruning once established. Your choice depends on how quickly you need screening and how much maintenance you’re prepared to perform.
Are deciduous shrubs suitable for year-round privacy?
Deciduous shrubs, like the Carolina Cherry Laurel, lose their leaves in winter, resulting in gaps in the privacy screen during colder months. They are better suited if seasonal privacy is acceptable or if you plan to mix them with evergreen plants. For year-round coverage, evergreen species like the Waxleaf Privet or Emerald Green Arborvitae are more reliable options.
What’s the best way to maintain shrub privacy screens?
Regular pruning is essential to keep shrubs dense and at your desired height. For evergreen hedges, trimming after the growing season helps maintain shape and health. Avoid over-pruning, which can stress plants and reduce their lifespan. Also, incorporating a mix of species can prevent pests and disease spread, ensuring your privacy screen remains healthy and effective over the years.
Can I plant different shrubs together for a more natural privacy hedge?
Yes, combining different species can create a more natural, visually appealing hedge while reducing risks associated with monocultures. Pairing evergreens with deciduous options can provide seasonal interest and maintain some privacy year-round. Just ensure the plants have compatible growing conditions and similar water and soil needs to avoid stressing some species while benefiting others.
How much space should I leave between shrubs for a privacy hedge?
The spacing depends on the mature width of the plants; generally, planting shrubs about 2/3 to full mature width apart encourages dense coverage. For faster screening, closer spacing accelerates privacy but may require more pruning to prevent overcrowding. Overly spaced plants will take longer to form a continuous hedge and may leave gaps, so plan accordingly based on your chosen species and timeline.
Conclusion
For most homeowners seeking reliable, year-round privacy, the Emerald Green Arborvitae offers a dense, low-maintenance solution that matures steadily. If speed is your priority and you’re comfortable with regular pruning, the Highlander Boxwood provides quick coverage with a refined look. Beginners might prefer the low-effort Waxleaf Privet, while those wanting seasonal interest should consider the Carolina Cherry Laurel. For a premium, long-lasting hedge, investing in high-quality, mature plants can pay off in durability and appearance. Match your choice to your landscape, budget, and privacy expectations for the best results.
