If you dream of a backyard that feels private, peaceful, and secluded, shrubs can be your best allies. Unlike fences, shrubs bring life and color to your property—and the right ones will stay green and full all year long, giving you consistent coverage even in the dead of winter. Whether you’re shielding your yard from a busy street, blocking out a neighbor’s view, or simply creating a cozy retreat, there are plenty of hardy shrubs that provide lasting privacy.
Here’s a guide to seven of the best shrubs for year-round privacy, complete with details on their growth habits, ideal conditions, and how to keep them thriving.
1. Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis)
Arborvitae is one of the most popular privacy shrubs for a reason. With its dense, evergreen foliage and naturally columnar shape, it creates an instant living wall.
- Height: 10–30 feet (varies by cultivar)
- Growth rate: Moderate to fast
- Best for: Tall privacy screens, borders, hedges
- Care tip: Plant at least 3 feet apart to prevent overcrowding and disease. Water well the first couple of years to establish strong roots.
Popular cultivars like Emerald Green are perfect for smaller yards, while Green Giant can grow up to 60 feet tall for maximum coverage.
2. Boxwood (Buxus spp.)
Boxwoods are versatile, evergreen shrubs that can be shaped into tidy hedges or left to grow naturally. They’re slower-growing than arborvitae but provide a classic, elegant look.
- Height: 2–20 feet (depending on variety)
- Growth rate: Slow to moderate
- Best for: Formal hedges, garden borders, year-round structure
- Care tip: Trim lightly once or twice a year to maintain shape, but avoid heavy pruning in late summer, which can leave new growth vulnerable to frost.
Boxwoods are ideal for smaller yards or where you want a more refined, manicured appearance.
3. Holly (Ilex spp.)
Holly shrubs not only offer year-round coverage but also add seasonal interest with glossy green leaves and bright red berries (on female plants). They can be pruned into formal shapes or left more natural.
- Height: 10–25 feet (varies by species)
- Growth rate: Moderate
- Best for: Privacy with ornamental value, wildlife-friendly gardens
- Care tip: For berries, be sure to plant both male and female holly varieties.
American Holly is a favorite for tall privacy screens, while compact varieties like Inkberry Holly work well for low hedges.
4. Privet (Ligustrum spp.)
Privet is a fast-growing shrub that quickly forms dense hedges, making it one of the top choices for privacy. Many varieties are semi-evergreen or fully evergreen in warmer regions.
- Height: 8–15 feet
- Growth rate: Fast
- Best for: Quick privacy hedges
- Care tip: Needs regular pruning to keep its shape and prevent it from becoming unruly.
Privet is especially popular for homeowners who want results fast. Just note that in some regions, it’s considered invasive—so check local guidelines before planting.
5. Camellia (Camellia japonica & Camellia sasanqua)
For those in warmer climates, camellias provide lush, glossy foliage all year long and reward you with gorgeous flowers in winter or early spring.
- Height: 6–12 feet
- Growth rate: Moderate
- Best for: Ornamental privacy in mild climates
- Care tip: Prefers partial shade and acidic, well-drained soil. Protect from strong afternoon sun.
Camellias create a privacy hedge that doubles as a show-stopping floral display.
6. Photinia (Photinia × fraseri, “Red Tip Photinia”)
Photinia is prized for its vibrant red new growth that matures into deep green foliage, creating a colorful hedge that stays thick all year.
- Height: 10–15 feet
- Growth rate: Fast
- Best for: Tall, colorful privacy screens
- Care tip: Needs regular pruning to maintain density. Watch for leaf spot disease in humid climates.
For homeowners wanting something more colorful than plain green, Photinia is a bold choice.
7. Laurel (Prunus laurocerasus – Cherry Laurel)
Laurel shrubs are excellent for creating dense, tall privacy hedges. Their broad, glossy leaves remain lush throughout the year, and they thrive in many conditions.
- Height: 15–25 feet
- Growth rate: Moderate to fast
- Best for: Large privacy hedges, noise reduction
- Care tip: Trim once or twice a year to control size and keep the hedge full.
Cherry Laurel is particularly hardy and adaptable, making it one of the most reliable privacy shrubs.
Tips for Planting and Maintaining Privacy Shrubs
- Spacing matters: Too close, and shrubs compete for nutrients; too far, and your hedge won’t fill in. Follow recommended spacing for each species.
- Water well during establishment: The first two years are critical for root growth.
- Mulch to conserve moisture: A 2–3 inch layer helps regulate soil temperature and reduce weeds.
- Prune strategically: Light, regular pruning encourages density.
- Match plant to climate: Always check hardiness zones and choose varieties suited to your region.
Final Thoughts
Privacy shrubs are a living investment—they not only give you a natural barrier but also enhance the beauty, structure, and even wildlife value of your landscape. From fast-growing options like privet and arborvitae to ornamental choices like holly and camellia, there’s a shrub to fit every yard style and climate.
With the right selection and a little care, you’ll enjoy a lush, private, and peaceful backyard sanctuary all year round.
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