There’s something comforting about a yard that feels tucked away, a little retreat where you can sip coffee in the morning or unwind at the end of the day without feeling like you’re on display. Fences help, but nothing creates a softer, more natural boundary than shrubs. And when you choose the right ones, you don’t have to wait years for that sense of privacy to take root.
Fast-growing shrubs are the secret to transforming open spaces into private havens. They fill in quickly, bring color and texture, and many stay beautiful through the seasons. Some flower in bursts of color, others keep their evergreen shape year-round, and all of them add a living barrier that feels far more inviting than a wall.
Whether you’re working with a wide backyard, a narrow side yard, or just want to shield your patio from view, the right shrubs can make all the difference. Ahead, you’ll find 115 Fastest Growing Privacy Shrubs to Grow as Privacy Hedges, plants that give you privacy, personality, and a greener, cozier space to enjoy sooner rather than later.
1. Leyland Cypress
Leyland Cypress is one of the fastest growing privacy shrubs, reaching impressive heights in just a few years. Its dense evergreen foliage creates a lush wall of greenery that feels natural and inviting.
Gardeners love it for its low-maintenance growth habit and year-round color. Once planted, it quickly forms a living screen that blocks unwanted views and reduces noise.
This shrub thrives in full sun and adapts well to different soils. With steady growth, it offers homeowners a reliable way to establish privacy and beauty in outdoor spaces.
2. Wax Myrtle
Wax Myrtle is a fast-growing evergreen shrub known for its fragrant leaves and dense growth. It quickly forms a natural barrier that works well for creating privacy in any outdoor setting.
Many homeowners appreciate its ability to adapt to different soil types while staying low-maintenance. Birds are often drawn to its small berries, adding a touch of wildlife to the garden.
Thriving in sunny spots, this shrub responds well to pruning and shaping. Over time, it becomes a lush screen that enhances both beauty and seclusion.
3. Japanese Wisteria
Japanese Wisteria grows fast and rewards with cascades of purple blooms each spring. Its twisting vines spread quickly, creating a lush screen full of color and texture.
Many gardeners use it to cover pergolas, fences, and walls. With steady growth, it transforms plain spaces into enchanting garden features.
Thriving in full sun, this shrub needs sturdy support as it matures. Once established, it delivers privacy along with breathtaking seasonal beauty.
4. Cherry Crepe Myrtle
Cherry Crepe Myrtle is a fast-growing shrub that brings vibrant blooms through the warm months. Its clusters of pink flowers brighten up any garden while offering a natural privacy screen.
Known for its graceful shape, it grows quickly into a dense, leafy display. The bark adds extra charm in winter when the flowers fade.
Thriving in sunny conditions, this shrub needs little care once rooted. Over time, it creates both shade and beauty in outdoor spaces.
5. Hollies
Hollies are known for their glossy green leaves and clusters of bright red berries that stand out year-round. This fast-growing shrub creates a dense screen that adds privacy and seasonal beauty.
Gardeners often plant them in rows to form hedges that stay lush and vibrant. Their evergreen nature ensures lasting greenery even through the colder months.
With little effort, hollies adapt well to different soils and conditions. Over time, they become a striking addition that offers both cover and charm.
6. Lilac Shrub
Lilac shrubs grow quickly and bring waves of fragrant purple blossoms each spring. Their dense foliage makes them a strong choice for creating privacy while adding color.
Many homeowners plant them along fences or walls to form a living screen. The blooms not only attract butterflies but also fill the garden with a refreshing scent.
Thriving in sunny spots, lilacs are hardy and reliable once established. With time, they provide both seclusion and seasonal charm.
7. Rose of Sharon
Rose of Sharon grows at a steady pace and rewards with blooms that last from summer into fall. Its large flowers bring soft shades of pink, white, and lavender to garden spaces.
Many homeowners choose it for hedges or borders where both privacy and color are needed. The blossoms attract butterflies and hummingbirds, adding life to the landscape.
This hardy shrub thrives in sunny areas and requires little upkeep once established. Over the years, it matures into a striking screen full of charm and seasonal beauty.
8. Arborvitae
Arborvitae is a favorite choice for fast-growing privacy hedges thanks to its tall, narrow shape. Its dense evergreen foliage creates a living wall that looks vibrant throughout the year.
Homeowners often plant them in rows for instant structure and a natural screen. The rich green color adds freshness to any garden setting.
Thriving in full sun, this hardy shrub requires minimal upkeep once established. Over time, it grows into a striking and dependable privacy barrier.
9. Italian Cypress
Italian Cypress grows tall and narrow, making it one of the best choices for instant privacy. Its striking column-like form adds elegance while blocking unwanted views.
Homeowners often plant them in rows along driveways, fences, or property lines. The deep green foliage stays lush throughout the year, offering a timeless look.
Thriving in sunny conditions, this hardy shrub requires little maintenance once rooted. Over the years, it matures into a dramatic and lasting natural screen.
10. Ninebark
Ninebark grows quickly and brings dramatic color shifts through the seasons. Its foliage ranges from deep burgundy to fiery red, while clusters of blooms add even more charm.
Gardeners love it for its resilience and ability to thrive in many conditions. The textured bark, revealed in winter, offers extra beauty when leaves drop.
This fast-growing shrub works well as a hedge or border plant. With little effort, it matures into a striking privacy screen full of character.
11. Forsythia
Forsythia bursts into golden blooms early in spring, making it one of the most eye-catching privacy shrubs. Its fast growth quickly fills spaces with both color and coverage.
Many homeowners plant it along property lines where its arching branches create a natural hedge. The vibrant flowers announce the changing season with unmatched brightness.
Once the blooms fade, lush green leaves take their place. With little care, forsythia grows into a reliable and beautiful living screen.
12. American Hazelnut
American Hazelnut grows fast and forms a dense thicket that doubles as a privacy screen. Its broad green leaves create a lush backdrop through the growing season.
Wildlife is drawn to its edible nuts, making it both functional and beautiful. The shrub spreads easily, filling spaces with natural cover.
Tolerant of many soils, it thrives in sun or partial shade with little fuss. Over time, it becomes a sturdy barrier while adding ecological value.
13. Common Lilac
Common Lilac grows quickly and fills gardens with fragrant clusters of purple blooms. Its dense branches make it a reliable choice for both privacy and seasonal beauty.
Many homeowners plant it along fences, where it doubles as a screen and a floral display. The sweet fragrance attracts pollinators, bringing life and color each spring.
Once established, lilac requires little attention beyond occasional pruning. With time, it becomes a long-lasting shrub that offers privacy and timeless charm.
14. Bamboo
Bamboo is one of the fastest growers, reaching impressive heights in a short time. Its tall, leafy canes create a natural privacy wall that feels lush and calming.
Many homeowners choose clumping varieties to avoid spreading while still enjoying dense coverage. The fresh green foliage sways gently, adding movement and beauty to the garden.
With minimal care, bamboo thrives in sunny spots and adapts well to different soils. Over time, it transforms outdoor spaces into private, serene retreats.
15. Giant Bamboo
Giant Bamboo is one of the fastest-growing plants, capable of shooting up several feet each season. Its towering canes and lush leaves create an instant wall of green for privacy.
Gardeners use it to form natural screens that block noise and wind while adding tropical beauty. The dense growth makes it an excellent choice for large spaces.
Thriving in sunny conditions with regular water, it requires little beyond routine care. Over time, it transforms gardens into private, tranquil retreats.
