I’m always on the lookout for quick solutions to create a cozy, private oasis in my backyard. Let me tell you, fast-growing shrubs have been a game-changer!
They’re perfect for creating privacy screens and adding beautiful greenery to your outdoor space.
Today, I’m excited to share my favorite fast-growing shrubs that’ll transform your garden in no time.
12 Fast-Growing Shrubs for Screening
1. Mock Orange
Oh, the heavenly scent of mock orange! I remember the first time I caught a whiff of its fragrant white blossoms – it was love at first sniff. Despite its name, it’s not actually related to oranges, but its citrusy aroma is simply divine. I’ve planted a few of these beauties along my fence line, and they never fail to make me smile.
2. Arborvitae
When it comes to evergreen privacy hedges, arborvitae is my go-to choice. I’ve used ‘Green Giant’ in my backyard, and let me tell you, it lives up to its name! It can reach an impressive 50 to 60 feet tall. For smaller spaces, I recommend ‘Emerald Green’. It grows to a more manageable 12 to 14 feet tall with a spread of 3 to 4 feet – perfect for creating a cozy, intimate feel in your garden.
3. Beautyberry
Talk about a fast grower! Beautyberry is like the Usain Bolt of shrubs. Here’s a little gardener’s secret: cut it down to about a foot from the ground in early spring. By autumn, you’ll have gorgeous new growth covered in berries. It’s like magic in your garden!
4. Canadian Hemlock
Don’t worry, this isn’t the poisonous plant from ancient Greek tales! Canadian hemlock is a versatile shrub that’s been a lifesaver for my suburban privacy hedge. It’s amazing how it can be a towering tree in rural areas but behaves so well as a hedge in my backyard.
5. Cherry Laurel
Also known as English Laurel, this shrub is a real trooper in warmer climates. It’s hardy to zone 6 and can grow up to 3 feet per year – talk about speedy! I love its glossy evergreen leaves and the charming white flower clusters that bloom in spring. It’s like having a touch of England in my garden.
6. Yew
Yew is my secret weapon for those tricky shaded spots. It thrives in north-facing areas where other plants struggle. But don’t be fooled – this versatile shrub is equally happy basking in full sun. I’ve used it to create a beautiful, year-round green backdrop in both sunny and shady parts of my garden.
7. Lilac
Ah, lilacs! They remind me of my grandmother’s garden. The fragrance of these beautiful flowers takes me right back to childhood summers. While I love the traditional varieties, I’ve also experimented with some new cultivars that offer different colors and blooming times. It’s like having a perfume factory in my backyard!
8. Privet
Privet is the classic choice for privacy hedges, and for good reason. It grows quickly, prunes like a dream, and even provides winter interest with its fruit clusters. While Ligustrum vulgare used to be the go-to variety, I’ve fallen in love with Japanese privet for its more ornamental look.
9. Burning Bush
If you’re after spectacular fall color, burning bush is your answer. Its red to pinkish-red foliage is a showstopper in autumn, and the reddish-orange berries are a bonus. Just a word of caution from a fellow gardener: it can be invasive in North America, so plant with care and keep it in check.
10. Leylandii (Leyland Cypress)
Leylandii is the sprinter of the shrub world, growing up to 3 feet per year! It’s a hybrid of Alaskan Cedar and Monterey Cypress, and it’s my top pick for quick privacy hedges or windbreaks. Just remember to keep up with regular pruning – I learned that lesson the hard way!
11. Loropetalum
While it’s a superstar in the American Southeast, I’ve found loropetalum to be a delightful addition to my garden too. In warmer climates, it’s evergreen, providing year-round privacy and color. It’s like having a little piece of the South in my backyard!
12. Diablo Ninebark
Last but not least, let’s talk about Diablo Ninebark. This shrub is a real head-turner with its dark foliage. It’s one of those “black plants” that add drama to any garden. I love how its interesting bark provides winter interest when other plants are sleeping.