You know that feeling when you’re trying to enjoy a peaceful moment in your backyard, but you can’t shake off the feeling that your neighbors can see your every move?
I’ve totally been there! After years of awkward waves to neighbors while in my PJs, I finally discovered the perfect solution: creating gorgeous, living privacy screens with hedges.
Let me share my favorite shrubs and bushes that’ll transform your yard into the secluded paradise you’ve been dreaming of!
10 Best Hedges: Privacy Shrubs for Your Garden
1: Japanese Holly
Oh my goodness, this little beauty is such a sweetheart in the garden!
At first glance, you might mistake it for a boxwood (I know I did!), but Japanese Holly has these adorable oval leaves that give it such character.
If you’re working with a smaller space like I was when I first started, you’ll love that these cuties typically stay between 3-4 feet tall and wide.
2: English Holly
Now, if you’re looking for something with a bit more attitude, English Holly is your girl!
I absolutely adore how it combines classic good looks with some serious security features – those prickly leaves mean business!
The Foox Argentia variety is my go-to recommendation for friends, reaching an impressive 15 feet tall with an 8-10 foot spread (just keep those pretty but toxic berries away from kiddos and fur babies!).
3: Barberry Bushes
Let me tell you about my love-hate relationship with Barberry bushes!
Those sharp thorns might catch you by surprise during pruning (ask me how I know!), but they’re absolutely fantastic for security.
The bright red winter berries are like nature’s Christmas decorations, and guess what? There are new non-invasive varieties available now that won’t take over your entire yard!
4: Boxwood Shrubs
If you’re dreaming of that classic European garden vibe (minus the fancy estate), boxwoods are your best friend.
These evergreen beauties have been the darling of garden designers for centuries, and I totally get why!
As a bonus for those of us dealing with hungry deer in our neighborhoods, these sturdy shrubs are basically like kale to them – totally unappetizing!
5: Mountain Laurel
Can we talk about how gorgeous Mountain Laurel is when it blooms?
The pink flowering varieties make my heart skip a beat every late spring to early summer.
Just remember to let this beauty grow naturally – trust me, I learned the hard way that they don’t appreciate the same precise trimming as boxwoods!
6: Yew Bushes
Looking for something that can handle those tricky shady spots in your yard?
Yew bushes are like the trusty old friends of the hedge world – they’ve been doing their thing for centuries!
They’re perfect for privacy screens, though I always warn my impatient gardening buddies that these beauties take their sweet time growing.
7: Lilac Bushes
Oh, the heavenly scent of lilacs!
I literally plan my spring garden parties around when these gorgeous shrubs are in bloom.
Just keep in mind that they’ll lose their leaves in winter, so maybe mix them with some evergreens if year-round privacy is your goal.
8: Rose of Sharon
Want to know my secret weapon for late-summer drama in the garden?
Rose of Sharon puts on the most spectacular show when most other shrubs have called it quits for the season.
I love how these troopers keep blooming their hearts out even during those dog days of summer!
9: Aelia
Talk about a plant that does it all!
These versatile shrubs come in both evergreen and deciduous varieties, with the Steart Stonan type being particularly amazing for hedges.
From spring flowers to fall colors, plus blooms in every shade from red to yellow, it’s like having a rainbow in your garden!
10: Arborvitae
Last but definitely not least, let’s chat about my favorite go-to for serious privacy needs!
The North Pole and Emerald Green varieties are perfect for most yards (just steer clear of the Green Giant unless you’re trying to hide an entire house – those bad boys can reach 60 feet!).
I love how dense and lush these grow, creating the perfect natural privacy screen without looking too “obvious” about it.