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Best Shrub For Privacy Hedge (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for a natural way to create a little more privacy in your outdoor space, a shrub for a privacy hedge can be a great option. Not only do they provide the privacy you need, but they also offer a beautiful and natural aesthetic to your yard or garden. However, before you rush out to buy just any shrub, there are a few factors to consider.

Firstly, it’s important to consider the specific type of shrub you want to use for your privacy hedge. Some shrubs grow tall and narrow, while others grow bushy and wide. You should also think about the amount of sun or shade your hedge will receive, as well as the climate and soil conditions in your area. It’s also worth considering things like pruning requirements, maintenance needs, and the potential for the shrub to attract wildlife.

If you’re still unsure about which shrub to choose for your privacy hedge, ask yourself a few questions. Do you want a low-maintenance shrub that requires little pruning? Do you want a shrub that attracts wildlife and adds to the biodiversity of your garden? Maybe you’re looking for a shrub that grows quickly and provides privacy right away. By considering your specific needs and preferences, you’ll be able to find the perfect shrub for your privacy hedge.

9 Best Shrub For Privacy Hedge

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
Ideal for creating a dense, evergreen privacy hedge.
2
Ideal for creating a privacy hedge with evergreen foliage.
3
The product is ideal for creating an evergreen privacy hedge with its unique curled leaf privet plants.
4
The product is ideal for creating evergreen privacy hedges with 40 live plants of Podocarpus Macrophyllus Japanese Yew.
5
The product is ideal for outdoor use as a privacy hedge or divider and serves as a substitute for boxwood or ivy plants.
6
The shrub is ideal for creating a fast-growing, fragrant privacy hedge when planted outdoors.
7
The product is ideal for creating a tall and beautiful natural hedge for privacy purposes.
8
This evergreen privacy hedge shrub is low maintenance and ideal for creating a natural barrier between properties or landscaping features.
9
Ideal for creating a natural privacy screen or hedge with evergreen foliage.
Ideal for creating a privacy hedge with evergreen foliage.
The product is ideal for creating an evergreen privacy hedge with its unique curled leaf privet plants.
The product is ideal for creating evergreen privacy hedges with 40 live plants of Podocarpus Macrophyllus Japanese Yew.
The product is ideal for outdoor use as a privacy hedge or divider and serves as a substitute for boxwood or ivy plants.
The shrub is ideal for creating a fast-growing, fragrant privacy hedge when planted outdoors.
The product is ideal for creating a tall and beautiful natural hedge for privacy purposes.
This evergreen privacy hedge shrub is low maintenance and ideal for creating a natural barrier between properties or landscaping features.
Ideal for creating a natural privacy screen or hedge with evergreen foliage.

1. Ligustrum Waxleaf Privet – 20 Live Plants – Evergreen Privacy Hedge

The upright deciduous shrub is ideal for those who want to add a pop of color to their garden. It features creamy-white fragrant flowers followed by round blue-black fruit. Its dense and bushy characteristics make it perfect for privacy screens, wind screens, hedges, and small trees. Its dark green and bright green glossy foliage has larger leaves compared to the Sinense. This fast-growing shrub will reach 8-10 feet high, making it an excellent choice for people looking for fast results. The low-maintenance evergreen needs a regular watering schedule to ensure the growth of a mature root system. Once the root system is established, occasional watering is required, except during a drought, where regular watering is needed. Pruning is advised to keep the shrub in the desired shape, and shearing is recommended 2-3 times per year. Mulching is recommended to discourage weeds, retain moisture, and maintain low temperatures. It has a compact habit with glossy foliage that can be pruned into topiary or small standard trees. This shrub is an evergreen and displays a profusion of white blooms. It is useful as a hedge, screen, or windbreak, and performs well in containers and as a topiary specimen. Due to their versatility and undemanding nature, it is widely used in home landscapes. You can plant them as hedges, foundation plants, patio trees, or in shrub borders. Grown, packaged and shipped exclusively by Florida Foliage.

Pros

  • Fast-growing shrub that reaches 8-10 feet high
  • Ideal for privacy screens, wind screens, hedges, and small trees
  • Compact habit with glossy foliage that can be pruned into topiary or small standard trees
  • Displays a profusion of white blooms
  • Useful as a hedge, screen, or windbreak and performs well in containers and as a topiary specimen
  • Low-maintenance evergreen
  • Grown, packaged and shipped exclusively by Florida Foliage

Cons

  • – Requires regular watering to establish a mature root system
  • – Needs occasional watering after the mature root system is established
  • – Pruning is necessary to keep the shrub in desired shape

2. Nellie R. Stevens Holly – 30 Live Plants – Evergreen Privacy Hedge

The Orange Red Holly is a highly desirable holly species due to its attractive appearance and vigorous growth. Its dense branches make it an excellent screen for privacy, and it produces large, bright orange-red berries without a male pollenizer. For increased berry set, it is recommended to plant a male Chinese holly (Ilex cornuta) nearby. This evergreen species can grow up to 2 to 3 ft. per year without pruning, and once it reaches the desired height, you can clip off the leader to slow down its growth and make it thicken out.

These holly trees are perfect accents for your home's corners, planting beds, or entryway. Their dark green foliage provides a great contrast to surrounding trees and shrubs. During the winter months, the red berries against the deep green foliage create a beautiful scene, and you can clip off some branches to decorate your home for the holidays. Additionally, this tree is a birdwatcher's delight, as its berries attract all kinds of wildlife.

Florida Foliage exclusively grows, packages, and ships this Orange Red Holly species. Order now to add this beautiful and useful tree to your landscape.

Pros

  • Attractive appearance with dense branches for privacy screens
  • Produces large, bright orange-red berries without a male pollenizer
  • Can grow up to 2 to 3 ft. per year without pruning

Cons

  • – Requires a male Chinese holly nearby for increased berry set

3. Ligustrum Japonicum Recurvifolium | Curled Leaf Privet | 20 Live Plants | Evergreen Privacy Hedge

The Wavy Leaf Ligustrum is a large, upright, broad-leaved evergreen shrub that is highly adaptable and easy to grow. Its lustrous dark green, wavy foliage creates a handsome small accent tree, foundation hedge, or privacy screen. This shrub is a fine addition to fragrance gardens and Xeriscape gardens with low water needs. If you're looking to create a quick privacy screen or natural or clipped hedge, the Wavy Leaf Ligustrum is an excellent choice.

This shrub can grow naturally up to 10 feet in height, but it also responds very well to shearing for hedges that can be maintained at 5 feet or more in height. It is exceptionally easy to grow in a wide range of soils provided they are well-drained. The Wavy Leaf Ligustrum prefers a moist but well-drained soil in full sun to light shade. It is highly resistant to deer, disease, heat, humidity, and insects, and is exceptionally drought tolerant when established. While no pruning is necessary, it can be pruned as a formal hedge or small tree.

The Recurve Ligustrum, Ligustrum japonicum 'Recurvifolium', is a tough and adaptable fast-growing evergreen flowering shrub, which makes an excellent hedge or attractive small tree.

Pros

  • Highly adaptable and easy to grow
  • Creates a handsome small accent tree, foundation hedge, or privacy screen
  • Excellent choice for creating a quick privacy screen or natural or clipped hedge
  • Fine addition to fragrance gardens and Xeriscape gardens with low water needs
  • Highly resistant to deer, disease, heat, humidity, and insects
  • Exceptionally drought tolerant when established

Cons

  • – None mentioned

4. Podocarpus Macrophyllus Japanese Yew | 40 Live Plants | Evergreen Privacy Hedge Shrub

Introducing the Podocarpus Macrophyllus, also known as the Buddhist Pine, Yew Podocarpus, or Japanese Yew. This evergreen, pyramidal garden or patio tree is a beautiful addition to any warm weather landscape. The plant has dense, upright branching and lush evergreen foliage that takes to shearing well. It is a versatile plant, used as an accent, screen, clipped hedge, or as a topiary. The compact, lustrous foliage has a growth habit of 15-20 feet tall and is needle-like and flat with dark green leaves. It is also great for tubs or as a topiary.

This low-maintenance evergreen requires a regular water schedule to ensure the growth of a mature root system. After the root system is established, occasional watering is needed, except during a drought, when watering is needed regularly. Pruning is not required, but it is recommended to shear annually to maintain the desired shape. Mulching is also recommended to prevent moisture loss, deter weeds, and moderate winter temperatures.

The Podocarpus Macrophyllus is hardy in USDA plant hardiness zones 7 through 10. It is an undemanding, slow-growing tree or shrub that serves as a specimen, sheared hedge, or espalier. It is a handsome and versatile addition to any warm weather landscape. Grown, packaged, and shipped exclusively by Florida Foliage, this plant is sure to impress.

Pros

  • Dense, upright branching and lush evergreen foliage
  • Versatile plant that is great for accent, screen, clipped hedge, or as a topiary
  • Low-maintenance evergreen
  • Undemanding, slow-growing tree or shrub
  • Handsome and versatile addition to any warm weather landscape

Cons

  • – Only hardy in USDA plant hardiness zones 7 through 10

5. Diy Outdoor Privacy Solution: Boxwood Hedge Wall

Enhance the look of any space with the 3rd Street Inn Boxwood Hedge Wall, the most realistic and high-quality artificial foliage and privacy shrubs available on the market today. This product is perfect for both indoor and outdoor use, and can be placed in any area that needs a touch of greenery.

The 3rd Street Inn Boxwood Hedge Wall is UV and water-resistant, ensuring that it maintains its vibrant color and texture even after prolonged exposure to sunlight and rain. As an added bonus, this product is eco-friendly and requires no maintenance, trimming, or upkeep. It gives you the look of a live plant without the hassle of caring for one.

This product is perfect for creating privacy and reducing noise levels in outdoor areas such as patios, driveways, and walkways. Additionally, the artificial hedge wall can be placed directly on the ground or elevated in a metal or wooden DIY planter box to create a dramatic look with added privacy.

The 3rd Street Inn Boxwood Hedge Wall is easy to install with its sturdy aluminum frame and interlocking connectors for the outer greenery panels. The superior coverage of 3rd Street Inn foliage easily hides the aluminum frame and hardware, creating a life-like appearance. The dimensions of this product are 31" L x 12.5" W x 41" H.

Pros

  • Realistic and high-quality artificial foliage and privacy shrubs
  • UV and water-resistant
  • Eco-friendly and maintenance-free
  • Perfect for adding privacy and reducing noise levels
  • Easy to install

6. Fragrant Fast-Growing Privacy Hedge.

Looking for a flowering plant that can withstand the challenging weather conditions of the southern United States zones 8-10? Look no further than the heat and drought-tolerant Viburnums. These plants are perfect for adding privacy screens or fences to your home quickly, thanks to their fast growth rate. They bloom in the spring, filling your garden with their sweet scent and attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies. Plus, their evergreen leaves mean no winter cleanup, as the foliage stays green all year long. If you're looking to enhance your garden, Viburnums are an excellent choice, with large sizes available to provide seclusion sooner and flowers in the first year.

Discover the beauty of Viburnums and take your garden to the next level today!

Pros

  • Heat and drought-tolerant, perfect for challenging weather conditions of the southern United States zones 8-10
  • Fast growth rate, ideal for adding privacy screens or fences to your home quickly
  • Spring blooming with a sweet scent that attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies
  • Evergreen leaves mean no winter cleanup, as the foliage stays green all year long
  • Large sizes available provide seclusion sooner and flowers in the first year

7. Green Giant Privacy Hedge – 25 Plants

For those who are looking for a classic and beautiful green fence that offers privacy, Leyland cypress is a popular choice. This evergreen tree is known for its fast growth, reaching up to 3-5 feet per year. It can grow up to 60-80 feet in height and 15-25 feet in width when mature. This plant is hardy in zones 6-10, making it a great option for different climates. It is important to note that certain plants and sizes cannot be shipped to California due to restrictions from the California Department of Agriculture. In some cases, the plant may be shipped in smaller bags or semi bareroot to ensure its safe arrival.

Leyland cypress is a great option for those who want to create a natural privacy fence that is both practical and aesthetically pleasing. Its fast growth rate makes it an excellent choice for those who want to establish a fence quickly. Additionally, its evergreen nature means that it will provide year-round privacy and beauty.

Overall, Leyland cypress is a strong choice for those who want a classic and beautiful green fence that offers privacy and can thrive in different climates. While there may be restrictions on shipping to California, the plant can still be a great option for many homeowners.

Pros

  • Fast growth rate of 3-5 feet per year
  • Mature size of 60-80 feet in height and 15-25 feet in width
  • Evergreen nature provides year-round privacy and beauty
  • Hardy in zones 6-10

Cons

  • – Cannot be shipped to California in certain sizes

8. Yew Privacy Trio: Low Maintenance Evergreen Hedge

Podocarpus macrophyllus, also known as Buddhist Pine, Yew Podocarpus, or Japanese Yew, is a slow-growing, evergreen shrub or small tree that is grown, packaged, and shipped by Florida Foliage. With its attractive pyramidal shape, narrow, leathery foliage, and dense, upright branching, this plant is ideal for use as an accent, screen, clipped hedge, or formal topiary. It is also suitable for large containers or tubs, as well as for growing indoors as a houseplant.

This low-maintenance evergreen prefers regular watering until its mature root system is established. Once established, it only needs occasional watering, except during drought conditions where regular watering is necessary. Pruning is not required, but shearing once a year will help maintain its desired shape. Mulching helps to retain moisture, prevent weed growth, and moderate winter temperatures.

Hardy in USDA plant hardiness zones 7 through 10, Podocarpus macrophyllus is a versatile plant that can be grown as a large shrub or screen, specimen, lawn tree, or clipped hedge. In areas where it is not winter hardy, it can be grown in containers that must be overwintered in greenhouses or bright corners of the home. Its tolerance of low light conditions also makes it suitable for growing as a houseplant, and it can often be seen in shopping malls or other low light situations.

Pros

  • Attractive pyramidal shape with dense, upright branching and narrow, leathery foliage that takes to shearing well.
  • Slow-growing and low-maintenance evergreen that is suitable for a variety of uses, including as an accent, screen, clipped hedge, or formal topiary.
  • Versatile plant that can be grown indoors as a houseplant or outdoors as a large shrub or screen, specimen, lawn tree, or clipped hedge.
  • Tolerant of low light conditions and able to grow in containers that can be overwintered in greenhouses or the home.

Cons

  • – Only hardy in USDA plant hardiness zones 7 through 10, limiting its ability to grow in colder climates.
  • – Requires regular watering until its mature root system is established.
  • – May need occasional watering during drought conditions.
  • – Shearing once a year is required to maintain its desired shape.

9. Nellie R. Stevens Holly | 40 Live Trees | Evergreen Privacy Screening Hedge Plants | Ilex

The Nellie R. Stevens Ilex Holly plants are an excellent addition to any garden or landscape. They are considered one of the most attractive holly varieties with dense branches and a vigorous growth habit. These holly trees are perfect for creating a tall screen for privacy or as a beautiful accent at the corners of your home, planting beds, or entryway. Their dark green foliage provides a great contrast to other trees and shrubs in your garden.

These holly trees grow up to 2 to 3 ft. per year without any pruning. Once they reach the desired height, trimming off the leader will slow them down and make them thicken out. During the winter months, their bright orange-red berries will stand out against the deep green foliage, making them a perfect choice for holiday decoration. The berries also attract all kinds of wildlife, making them a bird watcher's delight.

To ensure proper pollination and a bountiful harvest of berries, it is recommended to plant male Chinese hollies as pollenizers. Grown, packaged, and shipped exclusively by Florida Foliage, the Nellie R. Stevens Ilex Holly plants are of premium quality and are sure to thrive in your garden or landscape.

Pros

  • Attractive and vigorous growth habit
  • Produces large bright orange-red berries
  • Perfect for creating a tall screen for privacy or as a beautiful accent at the corners of your home, planting beds, or entryway
  • Dark green foliage provides a great contrast to other trees and shrubs in your garden
  • The berries attract all kinds of wildlife, making it a bird watcher's delight
  • Grown, packaged, and shipped exclusively by Florida Foliage

Best Shrub For Privacy Hedge FAQs

Can shrubs be used as a privacy hedge in all climates?

Shrubs can be used as a privacy hedge in many different climates, but the specific type of shrub you choose will depend on the climate you live in. In areas with hot, dry climates, shrubs like rosemary, lavender, and oleander can be great choices for privacy hedges. These plants are drought-tolerant and can handle the intense heat and sunlight that comes with living in a hot climate.

In cooler climates, evergreen shrubs like boxwood, yew, and holly can be used as privacy hedges. These plants are able to withstand the colder temperatures and can provide year-round privacy. It's important to choose a shrub that is well-suited to your climate in order to ensure that it will thrive and provide the privacy you need.

It's also important to consider factors like soil quality, sunlight exposure, and irrigation when choosing a shrub for your privacy hedge. With the right care and attention, a well-chosen shrub can make an excellent privacy hedge in almost any climate.

How much space should be left between shrubs in a privacy hedge?

The amount of space required between shrubs in a privacy hedge will depend on the type of shrub you are using and your desired level of privacy. If you are using fast-growing shrubs like Leyland cypress or Green Giant arborvitae, you can space them about 3 to 5 feet apart. These shrubs have a quick growth rate and will fill in the space quickly.

However, if you are using slower-growing shrubs like boxwood or holly, you may need to space them a bit closer, about 2 to 3 feet apart. It is important to keep in mind that the closer you space the shrubs, the faster the privacy hedge will fill in, but this will also mean more maintenance work in the long run.

When determining the spacing, also consider the mature size of the shrubs you are using. You don't want to overcrowd the area and end up with a hedge that is too dense and difficult to maintain. Overall, it's important to research the specific shrubs you plan to use and consult with a professional landscaper to determine the best spacing for your privacy hedge.

How tall should shrubs be for a privacy hedge?

The height of shrubs for a privacy hedge can vary depending on the desired level of privacy and the type of shrub being used. In general, shrubs should be at least 6 feet tall to create a barrier that blocks the view of neighbors or passersby. However, some homeowners prefer taller shrubs for increased privacy. It is important to consider the growth rate of the shrub when choosing the initial height. If the shrub grows quickly, it may be best to start with a shorter height and allow it to grow over time. Additionally, pruning can help maintain the desired height and shape of the hedge. It is also important to choose a shrub that is suitable for the climate and soil conditions in your area to ensure it will thrive and provide the desired level of privacy.

What are the best shrubs for a privacy hedge?

When it comes to creating a privacy hedge in your garden, shrubs can be a great choice. They offer year-round coverage, can be trimmed to your desired height and shape, and come in a variety of colors and textures. Here are a few of the best shrubs for a privacy hedge:

1. Boxwood: This evergreen shrub is a popular choice for hedges due to its dense foliage and ability to be easily pruned into a variety of shapes. It can grow up to 10 feet tall and is deer resistant.

2. Privet: Another popular choice for hedges, privet is a fast-growing shrub with glossy green leaves. It can grow up to 15 feet tall and is very hardy.

3. Arborvitae: This coniferous shrub is known for its tall, narrow growth habit and soft, feathery foliage. It can grow up to 20 feet tall and is a great choice for a natural-looking hedge.

4. Holly: With its spiky leaves and bright red berries, holly is a great choice for a privacy hedge that also adds visual interest to your garden. It can grow up to 15 feet tall and is easy to maintain.

No matter which shrubs you choose for your privacy hedge, be sure to plant them at the appropriate distance apart and prune them regularly to maintain their shape and size.

What are the maintenance requirements for a privacy hedge made of shrubs?

Maintaining a privacy hedge made of shrubs requires regular care and attention. The first step is to choose the right type of shrubs that suit your local climate and soil conditions. Once you have planted the shrubs, it is important to water them regularly and ensure that the soil is moist. You should also fertilize the shrubs at least once a year to ensure they remain healthy and vibrant. Pruning is also an essential part of maintaining a privacy hedge made of shrubs. You should prune the shrubs at least twice a year to shape them and remove dead or damaged branches. Regular pruning will also encourage the growth of new branches and foliage, which will help to keep your privacy hedge thick and lush. Finally, you should keep an eye out for pests and diseases that may affect your shrubs and take appropriate action to prevent or treat any issues that arise. With proper care and attention, your privacy hedge made of shrubs will provide you with years of beauty and seclusion.

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