Privacy shrubs are a popular choice for creating natural barriers that protect your outdoor space from prying eyes and noise. The best options combine fast growth, dense foliage, and low maintenance, but tradeoffs include cost, size, and upkeep. The Perfect Plants Thuja Green Giant stands out as the overall best for its rapid growth and year-round screening. For those on a budget, Waxleaf Privet offers a dense evergreen hedge at a lower price point. If you’re a beginner, the Golden Vicary Privet provides easy care and quick results. Continue reading for a detailed breakdown of each option and what makes them ideal for different needs.
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Key Takeaways
- Fast-growing options like Thuja Green Giant deliver quick privacy but may require more space and maintenance.
- Evergreen varieties such as Waxleaf Privet and Arborvitae ensure year-round screening, reducing seasonal gaps.
- Price varies significantly; seed-based options are budget-friendly, while mature plants cost more but establish faster.
- Some shrubs are better suited for small yards or containers, emphasizing the importance of size considerations.
- Maintenance needs differ; some plants require pruning and watering, while others are more forgiving for beginners.
| privacy shrub | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Curled Leaf Privet | 10 Live Q | 10 plants |
| Golden Vicary Privet Shrubs | — |
| Green Wall Willow Privacy Tree | 10 cuttings |
| White Tower Privacy Grass | — |
| American Arborvitae Privacy Tr | — |
| Perfect Plants Thuja Green Gia | 18 liners |
| 50 American Arborvitae Tree Se | — |
| Waxleaf Privet | — |
| Perfect Plants Thuja Green Gia | 8-pack |
| 20 Emerald Green Arborvitae Tr | 20 |
| Waxleaf Privet | 10 live plants |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Curled Leaf Privet | 10 Live Quart Size Plants | Ligustrum Japonicum Recurvifolium
This Curled Leaf Privet stands out for its adaptability and ease of care, making it a strong all-around choice for privacy. Compared with the Golden Vicary Privet, it is less showy but more tolerant of various soil types and less prone to seasonal leaf loss. It offers dense foliage suitable for hedges or standalone accents, with the tradeoff being its requirement for full sun to thrive and potential invasiveness in certain regions. Its evergreen nature ensures year-round coverage, and low water needs reduce ongoing maintenance.
Pros:- Low-maintenance and easy to care for
- Versatile for hedges, borders, or standalone use
- Thrives in full sunlight and conserves water
Cons:- Requires full sun for optimal growth
- May need pruning to maintain shape
- Potentially invasive in some regions
Best for: Homeowners seeking a reliable, low-maintenance shrub for hedges or borders that can handle diverse garden conditions
Not ideal for: Gardeners in shady areas or in regions where invasiveness is a concern, as it needs full sun and can spread aggressively
- Plant Type:Privet
- Size:Quart size plants
- Quantity:10 plants
- Botanical Name:Ligustrum Japonicum Recurvifolium
- Features:Evergreen, flowering, ornamental shrub
Our verdict“This shrub is ideal for those wanting a resilient, year-round privacy hedge with minimal fuss, provided full sun conditions are met.”
Golden Vicary Privet Shrubs – Fast-Growing Golden Hedge for Privacy Screens, Borders & Landscaping (Ligustrum vicaryi) in 3.5″ Cubes, Live Plants
This Golden Vicary Privet excels in creating eye-catching, fast-growing privacy screens with its vibrant golden foliage. Compared to the Green Wall Willow, it provides more structured, ornamental foliage and less spread tendency, but it’s less effective in shaded conditions and loses color in winter. Its dense habit makes it perfect for quick privacy, with the downside that it may arrive leafless if shipped during dormancy, and full sun is essential for its brightest color. Its drought tolerance and deer resistance add to its low-maintenance appeal.
Pros:- Vibrant golden foliage adds ornamental appeal
- Fast-growing and dense for quick privacy
- Low-maintenance, drought-tolerant, deer-resistant
Cons:- May arrive without leaves if shipped during dormancy
- Can lose leaves in winter before new growth
- Requires full sun for best color
Best for: Gardeners wanting a colorful, fast-growing hedge that makes an immediate visual impact and requires minimal care
Not ideal for: Shady garden spaces or winter garden designs, as its color fades or leaves may drop in colder months
- Plant Type:Deciduous shrub
- Height:8–12 ft
- Width:7–10 ft
- Foliage Color:Golden-yellow, matures to chartreuse
- Zone:5–8
- Container Size:3.5 inches
Our verdict“This shrub is perfect for those seeking an immediate, colorful privacy screen that’s easy to grow and maintain, especially in bright sun locations.”
Green Wall Willow Privacy Tree Cuttings – Ultra Fast Growing Privacy Screen – Hedge Willow Living Fences, Windbreaks & Borders (10 Cuttings)
This Willow Cuttings provide an ultra-fast solution for privacy and wind protection, with rapid establishment from simple planting methods. Unlike the shrub-based options, these willows can quickly form a dense, lush barrier, but they demand regular pruning to control spread and shape. Compared to the Miscanthus Grass, they spread more aggressively via roots, which can be a plus or a drawback depending on your landscape goals. These cuttings are ideal for those wanting instant privacy and are comfortable managing their vigorous growth, though they may need ongoing maintenance.
Pros:- Fast-growing and easy to establish from cuttings
- Creates dense, lush foliage for privacy and wind protection
- Low maintenance and highly adaptable
Cons:- May require regular pruning to prevent overgrowth
- Can spread aggressively if not managed
- Potential for invasiveness in some areas
Best for: Landscapers or homeowners needing quick, natural privacy with minimal initial effort
Not ideal for: Small gardens or those seeking a low-maintenance, slow-growing hedge, as willow spread can become unruly
- Type:Willow cuttings
- Quantity:10 cuttings
- Growth Rate:Ultra fast
- Usage:Privacy screen, windbreak, border
- Planting Method:Plant directly in soil
- Hardiness:Adaptable
Our verdict“This option is best for those prioritizing rapid privacy with a natural look, willing to commit to managing vigorous growth.”
White Tower Privacy Grass – Live Miscanthus Rhizomes, 10 Ft Tall Hardy Perennial Screening
The White Tower Miscanthus offers a striking, tall privacy barrier with its graceful white plume heads and rapid growth. Compared to the Green Wall Willow, it provides a more formal, ornamental look and less aggressive spreading, but it requires space for rhizome expansion and regular pruning to keep it tidy. Its perennial nature and drought tolerance make it suitable for low-maintenance landscapes, and it adds seasonal visual interest with its plume display. However, its height and spread mean it needs thoughtful placement to avoid encroachment.
Pros:- Creates a dense, tall privacy barrier
- Beautiful white plume display adds ornamental value
- Low maintenance and drought tolerant
Cons:- Requires space for spreading via rhizomes
- May need regular pruning to maintain shape
- Growth depends on soil conditions
Best for: Gardeners wanting a tall, elegant, perennial screen that requires minimal ongoing effort once established
Not ideal for: Small or confined spaces, or those seeking a quick, temporary privacy solution, as it takes time to reach full height
- Height:10 ft
- Type:Perennial Grass
- Growth Rate:Fast
- Hardiness:Cold-hardy
- Spread Method:Rhizomes and seed
- Material Features:Low maintenance, drought tolerant
Our verdict“This grass is best for those desiring a tall, elegant privacy screen with seasonal interest and manageable maintenance.”
American Arborvitae Privacy Tree Seeds | Evergreen Hedge | 100 Seeds
This American Arborvitae seed packet offers a cost-effective way to establish dense, evergreen privacy screens over time. Compared with the Perfect Plants Thuja Green Giant liners, these seeds require patience, as they take several years to mature into full-grown trees, but they are highly hardy and adaptable. Their evergreen foliage provides year-round coverage, and they support local wildlife. The main tradeoff is the time investment needed before full privacy is achieved, and the need for stratification and careful planting.
Pros:- Provides dense, evergreen privacy screens
- Cold hardy and adaptable to various climates
- Supports wildlife habitat
Cons:- Requires cold stratification before planting
- Growth takes several years to mature
- Trees can reach 40–60 feet, requiring ample space
Best for: Budget-conscious gardeners willing to wait several years for mature privacy trees, or those starting from seed to maximize landscape longevity
Not ideal for: Immediate privacy needs or impatient gardeners, since trees take time to reach full height
- Type:Native evergreen
- Hardiness Zone:2–7
- Soil Type:Loam
- Soil Moisture Needs:Moderate Watering
- Color:Emerald green
- Materials & Care:Cold stratify, plant 1/4 inch deep
Our verdict“This seed packet suits those seeking a long-term, budget-friendly method to establish privacy and willing to wait for full growth.”
Perfect Plants Thuja Green Giant Arborvitae, 18-Pack Liners
This 18-pack of Thuja Green Giant liners stands out for providing an immediate, dense privacy screen that requires minimal upkeep once established, making it ideal for quick landscape privacy. Compared with Perfect Plants Thuja Green Giant, 2 ft (8-Pack), these liners offer a larger quantity for instant coverage but come with the tradeoff of being less adaptable for smaller or urban gardens. Their pyramidal shape and dark green foliage make them a reliable backdrop, yet their large mature size—up to 60 feet tall and 20 feet wide—means you’ll need to prune to contain growth. Shipping restrictions to CA and AZ may limit availability for some buyers. Overall, this option best suits those wanting an instant, maintenance-light privacy screen with space for mature growth.
Pros:- Creates an instant, dense privacy screen
- Low maintenance once established
- Dense, dark green foliage
Cons:- Cannot ship to CA or AZ, limiting availability
- Large mature size may require pruning
Best for: Homeowners needing quick, dense privacy in large yards or estates.
Not ideal for: Urban gardeners with limited space or in regions where shipping is restricted.
- Quantity:18 liners
- Growth Height:up to 60 ft
- Growth Width:up to 20 ft
- Zones:5-9
- Shape:Pyramidal
Our verdict“This pick is ideal for those seeking quick, dense privacy in spacious settings who can manage its mature size.”
50 American Arborvitae Tree Seeds – Thuja occidentalis
This package of 50 American Arborvitae seeds offers a cost-effective way to grow your own privacy trees, especially appealing to experienced gardeners willing to invest time in planting and nurturing. Unlike the pre-grown Perfect Plants Green Giant options, these seeds require patience and good germination conditions, which means success isn’t guaranteed. They are best suited for those comfortable with starting plants from scratch and seeking a personalized hedge or privacy screen. The lack of detailed planting instructions can pose a challenge for novices, but for those who enjoy DIY projects, this is a flexible, inexpensive choice. The main tradeoff is the uncertain germination rate versus the potential savings and satisfaction of growing from seed.
Pros:- Affordable way to grow multiple privacy trees
- Suitable for custom landscaping projects
- Includes enough seeds for several plantings
Cons:- Germination success depends heavily on planting conditions
- No detailed instructions may hinder novice growers
Best for: Experienced gardeners or landscapers wanting to save money and enjoy plant cultivation.
Not ideal for: Beginners or those needing immediate privacy without the wait or risk of poor germination.
Our verdict“This option makes the most sense for patient, experienced growers willing to start from seed for long-term privacy solutions.”
Waxleaf Privet – 15 Live Plants – Evergreen Privacy Hedge
The Waxleaf Privet is a versatile, fast-growing evergreen shrub that excels in creating dense privacy screens, especially when regular pruning shapes it into hedges or small trees. Its glossy foliage and fragrant summer blooms add aesthetic value, making it suitable for landscape borders or container planting. Compared with Emerald Green Arborvitae, it responds more readily to pruning and shaping, but it requires consistent watering during initial growth and may lose some privacy in winter due to its semi-evergreen nature. This makes it ideal for those who want quick results and enjoy shaping their landscape, though it demands regular maintenance in the early stages. Overall, it’s perfect for gardeners seeking a flexible, fast privacy solution that can be shaped over time.
Pros:- Dense, bushy foliage provides excellent privacy
- Responds well to pruning and shaping
- Fragrant white blooms in summer
Cons:- Requires regular watering during initial growth
- Deciduous or semi-evergreen, reducing winter privacy
Best for: Gardeners who want a fast-growing, prune-friendly hedge with visual appeal.
Not ideal for: Those looking for low-maintenance, evergreen privacy that requires minimal pruning or watering.
- Expected Blooming Period:Summer
- Sunlight Exposure:Full Sun
- Expected Planting Period:Summer
- Soil Type:Sandy Soil
Our verdict“This shrub is best suited for those who value quick, shapeable privacy with aesthetic appeal and are prepared for regular upkeep.”
Perfect Plants Thuja Green Giant Arborvitae, 2 ft (8-Pack), Privacy Trees
These Green Giant arborvitae trees start small at 2 feet but are notable for their fast growth rate, making them a solid choice for establishing privacy in a shorter timeframe. Compared to the 18-pack liners, this 8-pack is better suited for smaller yards or projects requiring fewer trees. While initially modest in size, they will reach up to 60 feet when mature, so buyers need to allocate sufficient space and be prepared for eventual pruning. Their dense, dark green foliage offers excellent coverage, and once established, they require minimal maintenance. The main tradeoff is the smaller initial size, which might not meet immediate privacy needs but offers a longer-term, low-effort solution.
Pros:- Fast-growing and quickly provides privacy
- Dense, dark green foliage with pleasant scent
- Low maintenance after establishment
Cons:- Initial size may be small for immediate privacy needs
- Requires space for mature size and pruning to maintain shape
Best for: Urban or small-space homeowners seeking fast-growing privacy trees that can be scaled gradually.
Not ideal for: Buyers needing immediate full privacy or larger initial plants for instant coverage.
- Height:2 ft (initial)
- Quantity:8-pack
- Growth Rate:Fast
- Mature Height:Up to 60 ft
- Mature Width:Up to 20 ft
- Zones:5-9
Our verdict“This pick suits those who can wait a few years for full privacy but want a low-effort, fast-growing tree in the meantime.”
20 Emerald Green Arborvitae Trees/Shrubs – 6-12″ Tall Live Plants
The Emerald Green Arborvitae in this set are tiny, 6-12 inches tall, making them an excellent choice for immediate, ground-level privacy or as an addition to larger landscaping projects. Unlike taller, mature trees, these shrubs will require time and proper planting to reach full height, but their naturally compact pyramid shape provides dense coverage as they grow. They are best for gardeners who want to create a layered privacy barrier or fill in gaps in existing hedges, thanks to their vibrant green, year-round foliage. However, their small size at planting means they won’t offer much privacy right away, and they need care to reach their full potential. This makes them less suitable for those needing instant privacy but perfect for those planning for the future.
Pros:- Creates dense, impenetrable privacy as they grow
- Vibrant green foliage year-round
- No pruning required for maintenance
Cons:- Limited to small height at planting, needing time to grow
- Requires planting and care to reach full size
Best for: Gardeners aiming to create layered privacy screens gradually or fill in landscape gaps.
Not ideal for: Those needing immediate, tall privacy or large-scale screening in a short timeframe.
- Quantity:20
- Height:6-12 inches
- Plant Type:Live Plants
- Shape:Pyramid
Our verdict“This set is best suited for gardeners willing to wait for the shrubs to mature into a full privacy hedge and prefer minimal maintenance.”
Waxleaf Privet – 10 Live Plants 2″ Pot Size – Evergreen Privacy Hedge
The Waxleaf Privet stands out for its ability to quickly form a dense privacy screen, making it an excellent choice for homeowners who need immediate coverage. Compared to Golden Vicary Privet, which offers a more vibrant color but slower growth, this shrub provides faster results, though it may require more frequent pruning to manage its size. Its adaptability to various light conditions and low maintenance needs make it a flexible option for different garden styles. However, as a deciduous plant, it will lose leaves in winter, which might reduce privacy temporarily. Additionally, its potential to grow as tall as 8-10 feet means it needs space to avoid overtaking smaller gardens or interfering with structures.
Pros:- Fast-growing, establishing privacy quickly
- Adaptable to sun and partial shade
- Low maintenance and versatile for different styles
Cons:- Loses leaves in winter, reducing winter privacy
- Potentially large size may require space management
Best for: Homeowners seeking quick, reliable privacy that adapts to different lighting and soil conditions with minimal effort.
Not ideal for: Gardeners preferring year-round foliage or those with limited yard space, as the plant’s size and deciduous nature may be drawbacks.
- Quantity:10 live plants
- Pot Size:2 inches
- Plant Type:Shrub
- Height:8-10 feet
- Foliage:Dark green and bright green glossy leaves
Our verdict“This shrub is ideal for those needing quick privacy with minimal upkeep, but consider space and seasonal leaf loss.”
How We Picked
I evaluated these privacy shrubs based on growth rate, density of foliage, ease of maintenance, cost, and suitability for various yard sizes. Plants that offered reliable year-round privacy and minimal upkeep scored higher, while those with slower growth or higher care demands ranked lower. The diversity of options reflects different budgets and skill levels, ensuring a well-rounded selection. This ranking prioritizes plants that provide consistent privacy with manageable care, making them practical choices for most homeowners.Factors to Consider When Choosing Privacy Shrubs
When selecting privacy shrubs, it’s important to consider several factors that influence their effectiveness and your enjoyment. Growth rate impacts how quickly you’ll see results, while size and mature height determine if the plant fits your space. Maintenance requirements can vary, so choosing low-maintenance options might be best for busy schedules. Price differences often reflect maturity level and growth speed, so balancing budget with expectations is key. Additionally, think about climate compatibility and whether the plant will thrive in your specific environment.Growth Rate and Size
Fast-growing shrubs like Thuja Green Giant can establish privacy within a few seasons, but they may need regular pruning to maintain shape. Conversely, slower growers may require patience but often need less frequent trimming. Consider the mature height and spread to ensure the shrub fits your yard and privacy goals. Small yards benefit from compact varieties, while larger spaces can accommodate taller, denser options.
Evergreen vs. Deciduous
Evergreen shrubs provide year-round privacy, making them ideal for those seeking constant screening. Deciduous plants, meanwhile, lose their leaves seasonally, which might create gaps in privacy but can be suitable for seasonal hedges or aesthetic purposes. Think about your climate and whether seasonal changes are acceptable or if full-year coverage is necessary.
Maintenance and Care
Some shrubs, like Privets, require regular pruning to maintain density and shape, while others, such as certain arborvitae, are relatively low-maintenance. Consider your willingness to prune and water regularly; plants with high care needs might not be suitable for busy homeowners. Choosing hardy, adaptable species can save time and effort in the long run.
Cost and Establishment
Seed-grown plants are generally more affordable but take longer to reach full privacy. Potted and mature plants cost more upfront but establish faster, providing immediate screening. Balance your budget with your desired timeline for privacy. Remember that larger, established plants can be more resilient and require less initial care.
Climate Compatibility
Always select shrubs suited to your local climate. Some varieties thrive in cold zones, while others prefer warmer, subtropical environments. Checking USDA hardiness zones and soil preferences can prevent disappointment and ensure your shrubs flourish, providing lasting privacy.
Frequently Asked Questions
How fast do privacy shrubs typically grow?
Growth rates vary among species; some, like Thuja Green G giant, can grow several feet per year, providing quick privacy within 2-3 seasons. Others, such as Privets, grow more slowly but can still reach effective screening within 3-5 years. The growth rate depends on soil quality, watering, and climate conditions, so selecting a fast-growing variety suited to your environment can help achieve privacy goals sooner.
Are evergreen shrubs better for year-round privacy?
Yes, evergreen shrubs retain their foliage throughout all seasons, offering constant coverage. This makes them ideal for homeowners who want reliable privacy without seasonal gaps. Deciduous shrubs, while sometimes faster-growing or cheaper, lose their leaves in winter, creating temporary visibility. If year-round screening is a priority, selecting evergreen varieties like Arborvitae or Privet is a wise choice.
What’s the best way to maintain privacy shrubs in a small yard?
In small yards, choose compact or columnar varieties that maximize privacy without overwhelming the space. Regular pruning can help keep shrubs dense and at a manageable height. Consider container-planting if ground space is limited, which allows more control over size and shape. Low-maintenance plants like certain arborvitae or Privets are ideal since they require minimal trimming and care.
Can I mix different types of privacy shrubs for better effect?
Mixing species can enhance visual interest and provide layered privacy, especially if you want to extend the screening height or create a more natural look. Be mindful of compatibility regarding soil, water needs, and growth habits to prevent one species from overtaking others. Combining evergreen and deciduous plants can also offer seasonal variation while maintaining overall privacy.
What are common mistakes when planting privacy shrubs?
One common mistake is planting shrubs too close together, which can hinder growth and reduce density. Not considering mature size leads to overcrowding or insufficient coverage. Ignoring climate suitability may cause plants to struggle or die back, reducing privacy. Proper planning around space, growth habits, and environmental conditions helps ensure a thriving, effective privacy screen.
Conclusion
For most homeowners seeking a reliable, all-season privacy screen, the Perfect Plants Thuja Green Giant offers the best overall value thanks to its rapid growth and dense foliage. Budget-conscious buyers will appreciate the Waxleaf Privet for its affordability and ease of care. Beginners should consider the Golden Vicary Privet for its forgiving nature and quick results. Those with limited space or specific aesthetic preferences might opt for more compact or decorative options like the White Tower Privacy Grass. Ultimately, choosing the right shrub depends on your specific privacy needs, climate, and maintenance willingness.
