10 Fast-Growing Privacy Shrubs to Transform Your Outdoor Space

Creating a private and peaceful space in your garden can be challenging, especially if you live in a densely populated area.

Privacy shrubs are an excellent solution. They grow quickly, provide a natural barrier, and enhance the beauty of your outdoor space.

Here are ten fast-growing shrubs to consider.

 

1. Arborvitae (Thuja)

Arborvitae is a popular evergreen shrub that grows quickly and offers dense coverage.

It has a natural pyramid shape, making it perfect for creating tall, thick privacy screens. Some varieties, like Green Giant, can grow up to 3 feet per year.

Plant these shrubs in well-drained soil with plenty of sunlight. They are low-maintenance and resistant to pests. Regular trimming helps keep them neat and encourages faster growth.

 

2. Privet (Ligustrum)

Privet is a versatile shrub known for its rapid growth and adaptability. It forms a compact hedge, ideal for creating boundaries in gardens.

This shrub grows well in various conditions and can handle full sun or partial shade.

Privet hedges thrive with regular watering and occasional fertilization. Pruning twice a year ensures a neat appearance and helps them grow thicker.

 

3. Bamboo

Clumping bamboo varieties grow fast and are excellent for creating a tropical look. They form a dense barrier that blocks sight and reduces noise.

Unlike running bamboo, clumping types stay contained and don’t invade your garden.

Bamboo thrives in sunny locations and requires moderate watering. A layer of mulch around the base keeps the roots cool and helps retain moisture.

 

4. Forsythia

Forsythia is known for its bright yellow flowers that bloom in early spring. It grows quickly and creates a vibrant privacy hedge.

This shrub reaches a height of up to 10 feet, providing plenty of coverage.

Plant forsythia in sunny spots for the best results. Prune it after flowering to maintain its shape and encourage healthy growth.

 

5. Leyland Cypress

Leyland cypress is one of the fastest-growing evergreen shrubs. It provides dense coverage and grows up to 4 feet per year.

This makes it ideal for large spaces where you need a tall and thick privacy screen.

Plant Leyland cypress in well-drained soil and ensure it gets enough sunlight. It requires minimal care, but occasional pruning helps maintain its shape.

 

6. Red Tip Photinia

Red tip photinia is a striking shrub with red-tinted new growth that turns green as it matures.

It grows quickly and can reach a height of up to 12 feet, making it a perfect choice for privacy hedges.

This shrub does well in full sun or partial shade. Water it regularly and prune it a couple of times a year to maintain a dense structure.

 

7. Boxwood (Buxus)

Boxwood is a classic choice for hedges. While it’s not as fast-growing as some other shrubs, certain varieties, like Japanese boxwood, grow quickly and provide excellent privacy.

Boxwood thrives in well-drained soil and can tolerate both sun and shade. Regular trimming helps shape the hedge and keeps it looking full and healthy.

 

8. Wax Myrtle

Wax myrtle is a hardy shrub that grows quickly and thrives in various conditions.

It’s a great option for creating a natural privacy barrier with a relaxed, informal look. This shrub is also known for its pleasant fragrance.

Plant wax myrtle in well-drained soil and water it regularly, especially during dry periods. Occasional pruning helps maintain its shape and encourages new growth.

 

9. Cherry Laurel (Prunus Laurocerasus)

Cherry laurel is a fast-growing evergreen shrub with glossy green leaves.

It creates a thick, attractive privacy hedge and can grow up to 2 feet per year. Its dense foliage blocks views and reduces noise.

This shrub prefers partial shade to full sun and does well in moist, well-drained soil. Pruning once a year keeps it neat and encourages bushier growth.

 

10. Butterfly Bush (Buddleia)

Butterfly bush is a fast-growing option that attracts pollinators like butterflies and bees.

While it’s not evergreen, it produces colorful blooms throughout the growing season and provides moderate privacy.

Plant butterfly bush in sunny areas with well-drained soil. It requires minimal care but benefits from pruning in early spring to promote new growth and maintain its size.

 

FAQs

1. What is the fastest-growing privacy shrub?
Leyland cypress and Green Giant arborvitae are among the fastest-growing options, often adding 3–4 feet per year.

2. Can I grow privacy shrubs in small spaces?
Yes, consider compact shrubs like boxwood or clumping bamboo, which work well in tighter areas.

3. How do I care for fast-growing shrubs?
Regular watering, pruning, and occasional fertilization keep them healthy and growing quickly.

4. Are there any flowering privacy shrubs?
Forsythia and butterfly bush provide blooms along with privacy.

5. Can privacy shrubs reduce noise?
Yes, dense shrubs like arborvitae and cherry laurel can help block sound.

 

Conclusion

Fast-growing privacy shrubs are a practical and beautiful way to create a secluded outdoor space.

From evergreen options like arborvitae to colorful choices like forsythia, there’s a shrub for every garden style and size.

Choose the one that fits your needs and enjoy the benefits of a natural, green barrier.