10 Best Shrubs to Plant for Privacy: for Real-World Use 2026
Choosing the right shrubs for privacy is essential for creating a serene outdoor space. Fast-growing options can offer immediate coverage and enhance your landscape. This guide explores the best shrubs to plant for privacy, ensuring you make informed decisions for your garden or backyard.
This review evaluates various shrubs based on growth rate, maintenance needs, and suitability for privacy. Detailed analysis of each product will help you select the best option tailored to your landscaping requirements. Expect insights into their unique features, ideal planting conditions, and overall value for your investment.
List of Top 10 Best shrubs to plant for privacy
| Image | Title | Best For | Link |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Hybrid Willow Tree Plants For Growing | Fast Privacy Hedge Row, Wind Block, S… | This product is perfect for homeowners seeking rapid privacy… more | |
|
California Home Landscaping, Fourth Edition: 48 Landscape Designs 200+ Plants… | This book is ideal for California residents looking to enhan… more | |
|
6 Carolina Cherry Laurel In 2.5” Nursery Cubes (prunus Caroliniana) | Evergre… | Best suited for gardeners wanting a low-maintenance, attract… more | |
|
6 Nerium Red Oleander In 2.5” Nursery Cubes (nerium Oleander ‘jannoch’) | Red… | Ideal for gardeners seeking a colorful, low-maintenance opti… more | |
|
3 Japanese Privet In 2.5″ Nursery Cubes | Ligustrum Japonicum | Evergreen Shr… | Best for homeowners seeking a low-maintenance shrub that gro… more | |
|
6 Pink Oleander In 2.5” Nursery Cubes (nerium Oleander) | Fast-growing Evergr… | This plant is ideal for gardeners wanting a beautiful, low-m… more | |
|
Northwest Home Landscaping, Fourth Edition: 48 Landscape Designs, 200+ Plants… | Ideal for residents of the Pacific Northwest looking to enha… more | |
|
3 Nerium Red Oleander In 2.5” Nursery Cubes (nerium Oleander ‘jannoch’) | Red… | Perfect for homeowners wanting a colorful, low-maintenance s… more | |
|
12 Nerium Red Oleander In 2.5” Nursery Cubes (nerium Oleander ‘jannoch’) | Re… | Best for gardeners needing multiple plants to create a vibra… more | |
|
Coyote Willow Shrub Cuttings For Planting – Sandbar Willow – Easy To Grow, Gr… | Ideal for gardeners focused on erosion control while seeking… more |
Detailed Reviews
The following section presents the Top 10 best shrubs to plant for privacy. Each product has been carefully evaluated based on growth, maintenance, and aesthetic appeal. Readers will learn about the specific benefits and drawbacks of each option to make an informed decision.
Hybrid Willow Tree Plants For Growing | Fast Privacy Hedge Row, Wind Block, S…
The Hybrid Willow Tree Plants provide an exceptional option for those seeking a fast-growing privacy hedge. Priced at $13.95 with a 4.5/5 rating, these trees can grow up to 12 feet per year, reaching heights of 50-75 feet. Their unique appearance and low maintenance requirements make them stand out.
Ideal for gardeners who need quick coverage, these hybrid willows thrive in various conditions. Their dense foliage serves as an effective wind block and noise reducer. Easy to plant and care for, this option is perfect for anyone looking to enhance their landscape rapidly.
Pros
- Grows 12 feet annually, providing fast privacy
- Low maintenance with a healthy root system
- Unique appearance enhances landscape aesthetics
Cons
- May require regular trimming to control height
- Not suitable for extremely dry areas
- Limited to certain USDA zones for optimal growth
Perfect For:
This product is perfect for homeowners seeking rapid privacy solutions without extensive upkeep.
California Home Landscaping, Fourth Edition: 48 Landscape Designs 200+ Plants…
California Home Landscaping, Fourth Edition, offers a comprehensive resource for landscaping in California. Priced at $22.49 with a solid 4.5/5 rating, this guide contains over 400 photos and native plant profiles. It’s an excellent reference for selecting shrubs that ensure effective privacy.
Ideal for both novice and experienced gardeners, this book provides insights into plants best suited for California’s climate. The diverse range of plants featured allows users to create beautiful, privacy-enhancing landscapes while considering local ecology and aesthetics.
Pros
- Extensive plant profiles tailored to California’s climate
- Over 400 photos for visual guidance
- Includes outdoor DIY projects for practical application
Cons
- Limited to California-specific plants
- Not a direct product for planting
- Requires additional resources for actual planting
Perfect For:
This book is ideal for California residents looking to enhance their outdoor privacy with suitable local plants.
6 Carolina Cherry Laurel In 2.5” Nursery Cubes (prunus Caroliniana) | Evergre…
The Carolina Cherry Laurel is a versatile shrub perfect for hedges, priced at $37.98 with a 4.5/5 rating. These evergreens reach 20-40 feet tall, providing ample privacy. Their glossy green foliage and white winter blooms add beauty to any landscape.
This shrub thrives in USDA Zones 7-10 and requires minimal maintenance. Its drought tolerance once established makes it an ideal choice for homeowners seeking both privacy and low upkeep in their gardens. Great for attracting wildlife, it enhances the ecosystem.
Pros
- Evergreen foliage ensures year-round privacy
- Attracts wildlife with winter blooms
- Drought-tolerant after establishment
Cons
- Requires space for full growth potential
- May attract certain pests
- Can become invasive if not properly maintained
Perfect For:
Best suited for gardeners wanting a low-maintenance, attractive privacy hedge that supports local wildlife.
6 Nerium Red Oleander In 2.5” Nursery Cubes (nerium Oleander ‘jannoch’) | Red…
Nerium Red Oleander offers a striking, red-flowering option for privacy screens, priced at $37.98 with a 4.5/5 rating. This shrub can grow 8-15 feet tall, providing dense coverage. Its vibrant flowers add a tropical flair to any outdoor space.
Ideal for sunny locations, the Nerium Red Oleander is heat-loving and drought-tolerant. This resilient shrub requires minimal care and thrives in well-drained soil, making it a great choice for busy gardeners looking for effective privacy solutions.
Pros
- Bold red blooms enhance landscape aesthetics
- Fast growth provides quick privacy
- Drought-tolerant and low-maintenance once established
Cons
- Toxic if consumed, requires caution around pets
- Needs regular pruning to maintain shape
- Limited to warmer USDA zones for optimal growth
Perfect For:
Ideal for gardeners seeking a colorful, low-maintenance option for privacy in sunny areas.
3 Japanese Privet In 2.5″ Nursery Cubes | Ligustrum Japonicum | Evergreen Shr…
The Japanese Privet is a reliable evergreen shrub perfect for hedges, priced at $23.98 with a 4.5/5 rating. Growing 4-6 feet tall, it offers effective coverage with its glossy foliage. This shrub adapts well to various soil types, making it versatile.
This plant thrives in partial shade to full sun, making it suitable for diverse landscapes. Its low-maintenance nature makes it popular for gardeners looking to create privacy without extensive effort. The dense foliage maintains its appeal year-round.
Pros
- Dense foliage provides excellent privacy year-round
- Adapts to various soil conditions
- Fast-growing and responds well to pruning
Cons
- May not perform well in extreme cold
- Can become leggy without regular trimming
- Limited height may not suit all privacy needs
Perfect For:
Best for homeowners seeking a low-maintenance shrub that grows well in various conditions for privacy.
6 Pink Oleander In 2.5” Nursery Cubes (nerium Oleander) | Fast-growing Evergr…
The Pink Oleander is a stunning, fast-growing flowering shrub priced at $39.98 with a 4.5/5 rating. This evergreen reaches heights of 10-18 feet, providing substantial privacy. Its beautiful pink blooms enhance outdoor aesthetics, making it an attractive choice.
Perfect for sunny areas, the Pink Oleander thrives with minimal maintenance once established. Its drought resistance and ability to tolerate harsh conditions make it a reliable option for those seeking a vibrant privacy screen in their garden.
Pros
- Vivid pink flowers add color and beauty
- Drought-tolerant and heat-resistant
- Dense foliage provides excellent coverage
Cons
- Toxic if ingested, requires caution
- May require regular pruning for shape maintenance
- Limited to warmer climates for optimal growth
Perfect For:
This plant is ideal for gardeners wanting a beautiful, low-maintenance shrub for sunny privacy areas.
Northwest Home Landscaping, Fourth Edition: 48 Landscape Designs, 200+ Plants…
Northwest Home Landscaping, Fourth Edition, is an excellent resource for landscaping in the Pacific Northwest. Priced at $19.01 with a 4.5/5 rating, it features over 48 landscape designs and plant profiles. It’s a useful guide for selecting shrubs suited for privacy.
This book provides valuable insights into native plants, ensuring effective recommendations for local climates. Ideal for both beginners and seasoned gardeners, it simplifies the process of creating beautiful, private outdoor spaces while considering ecological factors.
Pros
- Focuses on plants suitable for the Pacific Northwest
- Provides practical landscaping designs and ideas
- Educates on native species and their benefits
Cons
- Limited to the Pacific Northwest region
- Not a direct planting guide
- May require supplementary resources for implementation
Perfect For:
Ideal for residents of the Pacific Northwest looking to enhance privacy with regionally appropriate plants.
3 Nerium Red Oleander In 2.5” Nursery Cubes (nerium Oleander ‘jannoch’) | Red…
The 3 Nerium Red Oleander plants offer a vibrant addition for privacy hedges at $26.98, rated 4.5/5. These red-flowering shrubs grow 8-15 feet tall, providing dense coverage. Their striking appearance and low-maintenance requirements make them ideal for anyone seeking aesthetic privacy solutions.
These plants thrive in sunny, well-drained areas and attract pollinators with their colorful blooms. Their heat tolerance and minimal care make them suitable for busy gardeners aiming for effective privacy without extensive upkeep.
Pros
- Bright red flowers enhance garden aesthetics
- Fast-growing for quick privacy solutions
- Drought-tolerant and heat-resistant
Cons
- Toxic if consumed, caution needed with pets
- Requires regular pruning to maintain shape
- Not suitable for colder climates
Perfect For:
Perfect for homeowners wanting a colorful, low-maintenance shrub for creating privacy in sunny gardens.
12 Nerium Red Oleander In 2.5” Nursery Cubes (nerium Oleander ‘jannoch’) | Re…
The 12 Nerium Red Oleander plants provide an excellent opportunity for large-scale privacy solutions at $59.98, rated 4.5/5. These vibrant shrubs can grow 8-15 feet tall, making them perfect for creating natural barriers in outdoor spaces.
These plants thrive well in sunny environments and are known for their ability to attract pollinators. With minimal maintenance requirements, they are well-suited for busy gardeners looking for effective and beautiful privacy solutions.
Pros
- Generous quantity for extensive coverage
- Striking red flowers provide aesthetic appeal
- Low-maintenance and drought-resistant once established
Cons
- Toxic to pets and humans if ingested
- Requires pruning to maintain desired shape
- Limited to warmer climates for optimal growth
Perfect For:
Best for gardeners needing multiple plants to create a vibrant and effective privacy screen.
Coyote Willow Shrub Cuttings For Planting – Sandbar Willow – Easy To Grow, Gr…
Coyote Willow Shrub Cuttings offer an eco-friendly solution for privacy at $16.98, rated 4.5/5. These cuttings are known for their erosion control properties and ability to create dense coverage. They are easy to grow, making them accessible for novice gardeners.
Ideal for areas needing quick coverage or erosion control, these cuttings thrive in various soil conditions. Their natural growth habits make them suitable for creating privacy while supporting local ecosystems.
Pros
- Excellent for erosion control and privacy
- Easy to plant and establish
- Supports local wildlife and ecosystems
Cons
- May require more care in dry conditions
- Growth can be slower compared to other shrubs
- Limited aesthetic appeal compared to flowering options
Perfect For:
Ideal for gardeners focused on erosion control while seeking privacy in their outdoor spaces.
Buying Guide
Before purchasing shrubs for privacy, several factors must be considered. Understanding your environment, growth rates, and maintenance needs will help in making the right choice. This section highlights key considerations to ensure successful planting and long-term satisfaction.
Climate and USDA Zones
Consider the climate and USDA zone in your area before selecting shrubs. Different plants thrive in specific climates, impacting growth and survival. Ensure the chosen shrubs are suited to local conditions for optimal growth and longevity.
Growth Rate and Size
Evaluate the growth rate and potential size of the shrubs you are considering. Some shrubs offer quick privacy, while others grow more slowly. Choosing the right size will affect how quickly you achieve the desired level of privacy and coverage.
Maintenance Requirements
Understand the maintenance requirements of the shrubs you plan to plant. Some varieties may require regular pruning, watering, or pest control. Selecting low-maintenance options can save time and effort while providing the privacy you seek.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best shrubs for privacy?
The best shrubs for privacy vary based on growth rate, size, and maintenance. Popular choices include hybrid willows, oleanders, and cherry laurels.
What is the price range for privacy shrubs?
Prices for privacy shrubs can vary widely based on species and size. Expect to pay anywhere from a few dollars for cuttings to over fifty dollars for established plants.
What features should I look for in privacy shrubs?
Look for shrubs with dense foliage, fast growth rates, and suitability for your climate. These factors contribute to effective privacy screening.
Are there beginner-friendly shrubs for privacy?
Yes, many shrubs are beginner-friendly, such as oleanders and cherry laurels. These options require minimal care while providing excellent coverage.
How often do privacy shrubs need maintenance?
Maintenance frequency depends on the shrub type. Some require annual pruning, while others may only need occasional watering and monitoring.
Conclusion
Selecting the right shrubs for privacy enhances outdoor spaces while providing essential coverage and beauty. Consider growth rates, maintenance, and local climate to make an informed decision. Invest in the right plants to enjoy a serene and private environment.
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