When selecting shrubs for privacy, the goal is to find plants that grow densely, stay evergreen, and fit your space. The Carolina Cherry Laurel stands out as the best overall for its fast growth and lush foliage, while the Thuja Green Giant offers a reliable, low-maintenance evergreen screen. However, tradeoffs include size considerations and maintenance needs—larger, faster-growing plants often require more care or space. Keep reading for a full breakdown of these options and how to choose the best shrubs for your privacy hedge.
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Key Takeaways
- Fast-growing evergreen shrubs like Thuja Green Giant deliver quick privacy, but require regular pruning to stay manageable.
- Deciduous options like Forsythia add seasonal color but lose leaves in winter, reducing year-round privacy.
- Size and mature height vary widely; choosing the right size prevents overcrowding or insufficient coverage.
- Soil type and climate are critical—some shrubs thrive in specific conditions, affecting longevity and appearance.
- Planting density impacts privacy quality—denser plantings with multiple specimens create more effective screens.
| 2 Carolina Cherry Laurel Shrubs – 4-6″ Tall Live Plants in 3″ Pots |  | Best for Quick, Compact Privacy | Quantity: 2 plants | Height: 4-6 inches | Pot Size: 3 inches | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Perfect Plants Thuja Green Giant Arborvitae, 18-Pack Liner |  | Best for Large-Scale, Long-Term Privacy | Quantity: 18 liners | Growth Height: Up to 60 ft | Growth Width: Up to 20 ft | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| 10 Emerald Green Arborvitae Trees/Shrubs – 6-12″ Tall Live Plants |  | Best for Immediate, Low-Height Privacy and Hedges | Quantity: 10 plants | Height: 6-12 inches | Type: Emerald Green Arborvitae | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Ligustrum Waxleaf Privet – 15 Live Plants – Evergreen Privacy Hedge |  | Best for Fast-Growing, Versatile Privacy Hedges | Plant Type: Shrub | Height: 8-10 feet | Foliage: Glossy, dark green | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Curled Leaf Privet | 10 Live Quart Size Plants | Ligustrum Japonicum Recurvifolium |  | Best for Elegant, Low-Maintenance Privacy | Plant Type: Ligustrum Japonicum Recurvifolium | Size: Quart size | Quantity: 10 plants | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Ligustrum Waxleaf Privet – 10 Live Plants 2″ Pot Size – Evergreen Privacy Hedge |  | Best Overall for Dense, Low-Maintenance Privacy Screening | Plant Type: Shrub | Height: 8-10 feet | Pot Size: 2 inches | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Colorful Hedge Bundle | Live Bare Root – Forsythia, Lilac & Red Twig Dogwood Shrubs |  | Best for Vibrant Seasonal Color and Quick Privacy Establishment | Includes: 2 Forsythia, 2 Lilac, 2 Red Twig Dogwood | Planting Stage: Dormant | Number of Plants: 6 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Viburnum Odoratissimum | 3 Live Plants | Fast Growing Evergreen Shrub with Fragrant White Flowers |  | Best for Fragrant, Year-Round Privacy Screens | Number of Plants: 3 | Plant Type: Shrub | Growth Rate: Fast | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Perfect Plants Thuja Green Giant Arborvitae, 2 ft (8-Pack), Privacy Trees |  | Best for Tall, Fast-Growing Privacy Trees for Larger Yards | Height: 2 ft initially | Quantity: 8-pack | Type: Privacy Trees | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Podocarpus Macrophyllus Japanese Yew – 10 Live Plants |  | Best for Slow-Growing, Versatile Hedging and Accent Plants | Plant Type: Evergreen shrub | Growth Habit: Upright, pyramidal | Foliage: Leathery, narrow | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| shrubs for privacy | Plant Type | Growth Rate | Quantity | Height |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 Carolina Cherry Laurel Shrub | Evergreen shrub | — | 2 plants | 4-6 inches |
| Perfect Plants Thuja Green Gia | — | — | 18 liners | — |
| 10 Emerald Green Arborvitae Tr | — | — | 10 plants | 6-12 inches |
| Ligustrum Waxleaf Privet | Shrub | Fast | — | 8-10 feet |
| Curled Leaf Privet | 10 Live Q | Ligustrum Japonicum Recurvifolium | — | 10 plants | — |
| Ligustrum Waxleaf Privet | Shrub | Fast | — | 8-10 feet |
| Colorful Hedge Bundle | Live B | — | Fast | — | — |
| Viburnum Odoratissimum | 3 Liv | Shrub | Fast | — | — |
| Perfect Plants Thuja Green Gia | — | Fast | 8-pack | 2 ft initially |
| Podocarpus Macrophyllus Japane | Evergreen shrub | Slow | — | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
2 Carolina Cherry Laurel Shrubs – 4-6″ Tall Live Plants in 3″ Pots
This pair of Carolina Cherry Laurel shrubs offers an immediate privacy solution for small spaces, thanks to their dense, evergreen foliage and ornamental berries. Compared to the larger Thuja Green Giant liners, these are better suited for patios or small yards where quick screening is needed without waiting for mature growth. While they start small, their fast-growing nature means privacy will develop faster, but they require patience and pruning to shape as they mature. Their low maintenance needs and year-round appeal make them ideal for gardeners seeking a manageable, evergreen option that provides visual screening early on.
Pros:- Creates instant privacy with dense foliage
- Low maintenance and adaptable to various conditions
- Provides year-round visual appeal with glossy leaves, flowers, and berries
Cons:- Small initial size may delay full privacy effect
- Limited info on how quickly it grows to full height
- May require pruning to maintain shape over time
Best for: Gardeners with limited space who want quick, manageable privacy screening in containers or small beds
Not ideal for: Those seeking immediate full-height privacy or large-scale hedges; patience is needed for growth
- Quantity:2 plants
- Height:4-6 inches
- Pot Size:3 inches
- Plant Type:Evergreen shrub
- Features:Fast-growing, low maintenance, year-round privacy screening
Our verdict“This pick is perfect for small gardens or containers where quick, manageable privacy is desired, with patience for full growth.”
Perfect Plants Thuja Green Giant Arborvitae, 18-Pack Liner
The 18-pack of Thuja Green Giant liners is a robust choice for creating a tall, dense privacy screen or windbreak. Compared to the smaller Carolina Laurel, these trees are better suited for larger landscapes or long-term privacy needs, reaching heights up to 60 feet. Their low maintenance once established makes them a favorite for homeowners looking for a set-it-and-forget-it hedging solution. However, their large mature size means they require ample space and pruning to contain growth, and they won’t work in zones outside 5-9. This option makes the most sense for those planning a permanent, high privacy barrier.
Pros:- Creates an instant privacy screen with dense foliage
- Low maintenance after establishment
- Tall growth provides excellent long-term screening
Cons:- Large mature height and width require significant space
- Cannot ship to CA or AZ due to regulations
- Requires pruning to control size over years
Best for: Homeowners with large yards wanting a permanent, high-density privacy barrier that matures over years
Not ideal for: Urban gardeners with limited space or those in zones outside 5-9; it’s a long-term commitment
- Quantity:18 liners
- Growth Height:Up to 60 ft
- Growth Width:Up to 20 ft
- Zones:5-9
- Type:Privacy evergreen
Our verdict“This pick is ideal for those seeking a durable, tall privacy barrier that offers long-term screening with minimal upkeep.”
10 Emerald Green Arborvitae Trees/Shrubs – 6-12″ Tall Live Plants
These Emerald Green Arborvitae are ideal for creating a dense, immediate privacy barrier at a modest height, especially suited for small to medium-sized yards. Compared to the Carolina Cherry Laurel, they are more uniform in shape and require no pruning to maintain their pyramid form, making them a low-maintenance choice for immediate privacy. Their bareroot status means careful planting is needed, and they won’t provide full privacy right away due to their small size. This makes them a good pick for gardeners wanting to establish a hedge quickly but who are prepared for subsequent growth and shaping.
Pros:- Creates dense, impenetrable privacy at a low height
- Natural pyramid shape requires no pruning
- Vibrant green foliage year-round
Cons:- Ships bareroot, requiring careful planting and care
- Limited height range (6-12 inches) initially
- No specific planting instructions provided
Best for: Gardeners wanting quick, low-height privacy screens or hedges with minimal pruning
Not ideal for: Those needing tall, mature privacy or impatient for full coverage; they start small
- Quantity:10 plants
- Height:6-12 inches
- Type:Emerald Green Arborvitae
- Planting:Bareroot
Our verdict“This option is best for gardeners seeking a quick-planting, low-height privacy hedge with minimal maintenance, understanding growth will take time.”
Ligustrum Waxleaf Privet – 15 Live Plants – Evergreen Privacy Hedge
The Waxleaf Privet is a fast-growing, adaptable shrub that can reach 8-10 feet, making it a versatile choice for privacy screens, hedging, and even small trees. Compared to the Carolina Cherry Laurel, it offers a quicker growth rate and denser coverage, especially once established. Its glossy foliage and fragrant white flowers add aesthetic appeal, while regular pruning helps shape it to fit specific landscape needs. However, its initial watering needs and pruning frequency mean it requires some ongoing care, unlike the more low-maintenance evergreen options. This makes it suitable for those who want rapid privacy with some shaping control.
Pros:- Fast-growing and dense for quick privacy
- Versatile for hedging, containers, or topiary
- Low-maintenance once established
Cons:- Requires regular watering during initial growth
- Needs pruning 2-3 times per year for shaping
- May need mulching to retain moisture
Best for: Homeowners wanting quick, dense privacy hedges with flexible uses in landscape design
Not ideal for: Those seeking minimal maintenance or in climates with limited watering opportunities; it needs regular care
- Plant Type:Shrub
- Height:8-10 feet
- Foliage:Glossy, dark green
- Growth Rate:Fast
- Uses:Hedges, privacy screens, containers
Our verdict“This shrub is ideal for gardeners seeking rapid privacy and hedging versatility, willing to commit to pruning and watering routines.”
Curled Leaf Privet | 10 Live Quart Size Plants | Ligustrum Japonicum Recurvifolium
These Quart Size Ligustrum Japonicum Recurvifolium plants bring an elegant touch to privacy planting, combining ornamental appeal with practical screening. They thrive in full sun and are low-maintenance, making them suitable for gardeners who want an attractive hedge that requires minimal fuss. Compared with the larger, fast-growing Waxleaf Privet, these are more ornamental and suited for formal landscapes. They will need regular pruning to maintain shape, especially in tight spaces, but their evergreen nature offers year-round screening. Their elegance makes them ideal for adding a refined look to gardens that value both beauty and privacy.
Pros:- Elegant, ornamental appearance
- Low-maintenance and easy to care for
- Versatile for hedges or standalone use
Cons:- Requires full sunlight for healthy growth
- Needs regular pruning to maintain shape
- Limited water requirement details are lacking
Best for: Gardeners seeking a stylish, ornamental privacy hedge that is easy to care for in full sunlight
Not ideal for: Those in partial shade or looking for a rapid, tall privacy barrier; they are more suited to formal settings
- Plant Type:Ligustrum Japonicum Recurvifolium
- Size:Quart size
- Quantity:10 plants
- Features:Evergreen, flowering, ornamental
Our verdict“This shrub is perfect for those wanting a refined, low-maintenance privacy hedge that enhances landscape elegance, with some pruning required for shape.”
Ligustrum Waxleaf Privet – 10 Live Plants 2″ Pot Size – Evergreen Privacy Hedge
The Ligustrum Waxleaf Privet stands out for its rapid growth and dense foliage, making it a reliable choice for creating privacy screens quickly. Compared to the Perfect Plants Thuja Green Giant, it offers a more manageable size and easier pruning, though it requires more frequent watering and pruning to stay tidy. Its glossy green leaves and fragrant white flowers add aesthetic appeal, and it adapts well to various soil and light conditions. This shrub is ideal for homeowners seeking a fuss-free, high-coverage hedge, but it demands regular maintenance until established. If you want a dependable, fast-growing hedge that minimizes overall effort, this option makes the most sense.
Pros:- Fast-growing and highly dense for effective privacy
- Adapts to sun and partial shade, reducing site limitations
- Easy to prune and shape for various garden styles
Cons:- Requires regular watering until fully established
- Pruning needed 2-3 times annually to maintain shape
Best for: Homeowners needing a fast, dense privacy hedge with minimal fuss once established
Not ideal for: Gardeners looking for low-maintenance, slow-growing plants or those in very dry areas without irrigation
- Plant Type:Shrub
- Height:8-10 feet
- Pot Size:2 inches
- Foliage:Glossy green
- Bloom Color:Creamy-white
- Growth Rate:Fast
- Light Requirements:Sun and Partial Shade
- Maintenance:Low
Our verdict“A strong choice for those who want quick, reliable privacy with manageable maintenance needs.”
Colorful Hedge Bundle | Live Bare Root – Forsythia, Lilac & Red Twig Dogwood Shrubs
This bundle of Forsythia, Lilac, and Red Twig Dogwood provides a lively mix of seasonal blooms and winter color, creating an appealing privacy barrier that also enhances curb appeal. Compared with the Ligustrum Waxleaf Privet, these bare root plants take longer to establish—usually 2-4 weeks—but once rooted, they grow quickly and reliably. Their vibrant flowers in spring and colorful stems in winter make this bundle perfect for those who want both privacy and visual interest. However, shipped dormant, they may need extra patience to sprout, and proper planting is essential. If you’re willing to wait a few weeks for vibrant, multi-season privacy, this bundle offers excellent value and color diversity.
Pros:- Creates vibrant, multi-season visual interest
- Easy to grow and low maintenance once established
- Suitable for various climates and soil types
Cons:- Dormant plants take 2-4 weeks to sprout
- Require proper planting and care for best results
Best for: Gardeners wanting immediate visual impact combined with seasonal color to enhance privacy
Not ideal for: People seeking instant privacy without waiting for plants to establish or who prefer evergreen coverage
- Includes:2 Forsythia, 2 Lilac, 2 Red Twig Dogwood
- Planting Stage:Dormant
- Number of Plants:6
- Purpose:Privacy hedge, landscape accent
- Hardiness:Cold hardy
- Growth Rate:Fast
Our verdict“Ideal for those who appreciate seasonal color and are patient enough to wait for full privacy coverage.”
Viburnum Odoratissimum | 3 Live Plants | Fast Growing Evergreen Shrub with Fragrant White Flowers
The Viburnum Odoratissimum excels for its dense evergreen foliage and sweetly fragrant white flowers, offering year-round privacy with minimal effort. Unlike the Podocarpus Macrophyllus, which grows slowly and is more suited for decorative shapes, this viburnum provides immediate coverage and is ideal for quick privacy screens. Its fragrant blooms attract pollinators, adding ecological value, but it may need pruning to keep a tidy shape and could become invasive in some regions. This plant is well-suited for homeowners who want a low-maintenance, evergreen hedge that also enhances garden scent and pollinator activity.
Pros:- Dense, evergreen foliage for all-year privacy
- Fragrant white flowers attract pollinators
- Low maintenance and adaptable to various soils
Cons:- May require regular pruning to maintain shape
- Potential invasiveness in some areas
Best for: Buyers seeking a fragrant, evergreen privacy hedge that attracts pollinators
Not ideal for: Regions with invasive plant restrictions or gardens requiring very formal, shaped hedges without pruning
- Number of Plants:3
- Plant Type:Shrub
- Growth Rate:Fast
- Foliage:Evergreen
- Flower Color:White
- Flower Season:Spring
- Maintenance Level:Low
- Drought Tolerance:Yes
Our verdict“Perfect for gardeners who want a fragrant, evergreen privacy screen with minimal upkeep.”
Perfect Plants Thuja Green Giant Arborvitae, 2 ft (8-Pack), Privacy Trees
The Thuja Green Giant is a favorite among those needing quick, tall privacy at a larger scale. Compared to the Ligustrum Waxleaf Privet, it offers an impressive height potential—up to 60 feet—and dense, dark green foliage, ideal for creating a natural barrier that requires minimal ongoing care. Its rapid growth makes it suitable for large properties, but this also means it can quickly outgrow small yards unless carefully pruned. Once established, it demands little maintenance, making it perfect for busy homeowners. However, its height and width may be overwhelming in limited spaces, so it’s best for larger landscapes.
Pros:- Fast-growing and tall for immediate privacy
- Dense foliage provides excellent coverage
- Low maintenance once established
Cons:- Can grow too tall and wide, requiring regular pruning
- Full maturity reaches up to 60 ft, not suitable for small spaces
Best for: Property owners with large yards or commercial landscapes seeking tall, fast-growing privacy screens
Not ideal for: Small yard owners or those seeking a manageable, low-height hedge
- Height:2 ft initially
- Quantity:8-pack
- Type:Privacy Trees
- Growth Rate:Fast
- Mature Height:Up to 60 ft
- Mature Width:Up to 20 ft
- Zones:5-9
Our verdict“An excellent choice for large-scale privacy needs where height and quick growth are priorities.”
Podocarpus Macrophyllus Japanese Yew – 10 Live Plants
The Podocarpus Macrophyllus is a slow-growing evergreen shrub ideal for gardeners who prefer shaping and detailed landscaping. Compared with the Ligustrum Waxleaf Privet, it takes longer to establish, often needing several years to reach desired height, but it rewards patience with a dense, upright form that fits formal hedges or decorative topiary. Its leathery, narrow foliage lends a refined look, perfect for those wanting a long-lasting, low-maintenance option. The tradeoff is its slow growth rate, making it less suitable for immediate privacy needs. If you’re after a versatile, low-maintenance shrub that can be shaped tightly over time, this plant suits calm, deliberate landscaping projects best.
Pros:- Low maintenance and easy to care for
- Versatile for hedges, screens, or topiary
- Thrives in various light and soil conditions
Cons:- Slow growth may not meet urgent privacy needs
- Requires pruning to maintain shape
Best for: Gardeners seeking a low-maintenance, long-term hedge or accent plant with formal appeal
Not ideal for: People needing quick privacy or rapid landscape coverage
- Plant Type:Evergreen shrub
- Growth Habit:Upright, pyramidal
- Foliage:Leathery, narrow
- Size:10 plants
- Uses:Privacy hedge, landscaping, containers
- Light Requirements:Partial shade to full sun
- Maintenance:Low
- Growth Rate:Slow
Our verdict“A wise choice for those prioritizing long-term durability and elegant shaping over speed of growth.”
How We Picked
I evaluated each shrub based on growth rate, evergreen quality, maintenance needs, size at maturity, and adaptability to different climates. Plants that provide dense coverage and require less upkeep ranked higher, as these qualities improve long-term privacy and reduce ongoing work. We also considered cost, availability, and how well each shrub performs in typical garden conditions. This approach ensures that the top picks balance performance with ease of care, helping readers find options suited for various needs and budgets.| shrubs for privacy | Plant Type | Growth Rate |
|---|---|---|
| 2 Carolina Cherry Laurel Shrub | Evergreen shrub | — |
| Perfect Plants Thuja Green Gia | — | — |
| 10 Emerald Green Arborvitae Tr | — | — |
| Ligustrum Waxleaf Privet | Shrub | Fast |
| Curled Leaf Privet | 10 Live Q | Ligustrum Japonicum Recurvifolium | — |
| Ligustrum Waxleaf Privet | Shrub | Fast |
| Colorful Hedge Bundle | Live B | — | Fast |
| Viburnum Odoratissimum | 3 Liv | Shrub | Fast |
| Perfect Plants Thuja Green Gia | — | Fast |
| Podocarpus Macrophyllus Japane | Evergreen shrub | Slow |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Shrubs For Privacy
Choosing the right shrubs for privacy involves more than just selecting the greenest plants. It’s important to consider growth habits, size at maturity, and maintenance requirements. A well-chosen hedge can last for decades, but a mismatch between plant and site can lead to ongoing problems. The following factors will help you make an informed decision tailored to your landscape and lifestyle.Growth Rate and Maturity Size
Understanding how quickly a shrub grows and its eventual height helps you plan for immediate privacy and future growth. Faster-growing plants like Thuja Green Giant can establish a screen in a few years, but they may need regular trimming. Conversely, slower growers might require patience but demand less pruning. Consider your available space and how soon you want full coverage to select appropriately.
Evergreen vs. Deciduous
Evergreen shrubs like Carolina Cherry Laurel and Arborvitae provide year-round privacy, making them suitable for permanent screens. Deciduous options such as Forsythia or Lilac offer seasonal interest but lose leaves in winter, reducing privacy during colder months. Decide whether uninterrupted coverage or seasonal color aligns better with your aesthetic and privacy needs.
Climate Compatibility
Not all shrubs thrive in every climate zone. It’s critical to match plants with your local conditions—soil type, rainfall, and temperature ranges—to ensure longevity. For example, Podocarpus prefers milder climates, while Viburnum tolerates a broader range. Planting species suited to your environment reduces replacement costs and maintenance challenges.
Maintenance and Pruning
Some shrubs, like Thuja Green Giant, need regular pruning to maintain shape and density, especially in small spaces. Others, such as Podocarpus, are more forgiving and require less trimming. Think about how much time you’re willing to dedicate to upkeep, as neglecting pruning can lead to overgrown or uneven screens.
Cost and Availability
Prices vary widely—from affordable options like Ligustrum to premium plants like Japanese Yew. Availability can also influence your choice; some shrubs are easier to find locally or online. Balancing your budget with your privacy goals means choosing plants that meet both criteria without sacrificing quality or coverage.
Frequently Asked Questions
How fast do privacy shrubs typically grow?
Growth speed varies among species, but many evergreen shrubs like Thuja Green Gaint and Carolina Cherry Laurel can reach their full height within 3 to 5 years. Faster-growing plants provide quicker privacy but may require more frequent pruning to keep them tidy. If immediate coverage is a priority, selecting a plant with a proven rapid growth rate makes sense, though you should be prepared for ongoing maintenance.
Are deciduous shrubs suitable for year-round privacy?
Deciduous shrubs like Forsythia or Lilac lose their leaves in winter, which temporarily reduces privacy. They are better suited for gardens where seasonal interest and flowering are priorities, or where privacy is needed only part of the year. For consistent, year-round screening, evergreen options are generally more reliable, especially in colder climates.
What is the best way to plant a privacy hedge?
Planting density significantly affects the effectiveness of your hedge; spacing plants according to their mature width ensures a dense screen. Typically, spacing is about half the mature width of each shrub, allowing for growth and airflow. Proper soil preparation, watering, and mulching also contribute to healthy growth, reducing long-term maintenance needs.
Can I mix different shrub species for a natural look?
Mixing species can create a more natural, varied appearance and extend bloom times or seasonal interest. However, it can complicate maintenance and make it harder to predict growth patterns. Ensure that the selected plants have similar water and light requirements to avoid one species outcompeting others or becoming stressed.
How much space do I need for a dense privacy hedge?
Space requirements depend on the mature width of the shrubs, but generally, plants should be spaced about half their mature width apart. For a dense, effective screen, planting in a staggered or double row can increase privacy without requiring extra width. Planning ahead minimizes the risk of overcrowding and ensures healthy, lush growth over time.
Conclusion
For quick, reliable privacy, Thuja Green Giant makes an excellent choice for most homeowners, offering rapid growth and evergreen coverage. If you want a long-lasting, low-maintenance hedge, the Carolina Cherry Laurel stands out. Beginners seeking easy-care options might prefer Ligustrum Waxleaf Privet or Podocarpus, while those wanting seasonal color can consider Forsythia. For large-scale projects or premium landscapes, the Japanese Yew offers an elegant, enduring option. Your ideal shrub depends on your timeline, climate, and maintenance preferences, but this list covers a broad spectrum to help you create the perfect privacy screen.
