If you’re looking for the best fast-growing shrubs to quickly add privacy, shade, or visual appeal to your yard, you’re in the right place. The Perfect Plants Thuja Green Giant stands out for its rapid growth and evergreen coverage, making it ideal for privacy screens. The Wax Myrtle offers drought tolerance and dense foliage, perfect for low-maintenance landscapes. Meanwhile, the Nellie Stevens Holly combines fast growth with evergreen privacy. However, tradeoffs include differing maintenance needs, growth speed variations, and suitability for specific climates. Continue reading for a detailed comparison to find the best fit for your landscape goals.
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Key Takeaways
- The fastest-growing options tend to be evergreen conifers and hollies, which provide year-round privacy.
- Tradeoffs often include higher pruning needs or slower initial growth, especially with woody shrubs like boxwoods.
- Drought-tolerant options like Wax Myrtle are ideal for low-water landscapes but may require more space for full growth.
- Some shrubs offer colorful foliage or flowers that add aesthetic value alongside rapid growth.
- Price and size at purchase vary widely; larger or more mature plants grow faster but cost more upfront.
| Perfect Plants Thuja Green Giant 3 Gallon – Live Evergreen Tree for Landscaping & Privacy |  | Best Overall for Fast Privacy and Low Maintenance | Growth Rate: 3 feet per year | Mature Size: 40 feet tall, 20 feet wide | Hardiness Zones: 5-9 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Dwarf Red Burning Bush Live Plant, 2.5 Inch Pot |  | Best for Vibrant Fall Color and Border Use | Plant Type: Live Plant | Size: 2.5 Inch Pot | Mature Height: 4-8 Feet | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Wax Myrtle | 20 Live Plants | Myrica Cerifera | Fast Growing Shrub, Privacy Screen, Evergreen Foliage, Drought Tolerant, Low Maintenance |  | Best for Year-Round Privacy and Drought Resistance | Plant Type: Live Plants | Quantity: 20 | Species: Myrica Cerifera | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Proven Winners 1 Gal. Neatball Boxwood Shrub |  | Best for Tidy, Low-Maintenance Evergreen Accent | USDA Hardiness Zone: 5-9 | Mature Size: 24-36 inches W x 24-36 inches H | Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Brighter Blooms Emerald Green Arborvitae, 1-2 Feet – Live Plant |  | Best for Small, Easy-to-Grow Privacy Hedges | Height: 1-2 Feet | Type: Live Plant | Plant Category: Evergreen Shrub | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Wintergreen Boxwood, Live Plant, 3-Gallon Container, Evergreen Shrub |  | Best Overall for Year-Round Evergreen Appeal | Mature Size: 3-4 feet in height and width | Container Size: 3-gallon nursery container | Appearance: Glossy, dark green leaves | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Lynwood Gold Forsythia Bush – Yellow Flowering Shrub – Live Plant, 1-2 Feet Tall |  | Best for Bright Spring Color and Easy Planting | Type: Forsythia Bush | Color: Yellow | Size: 1-2 feet tall | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Viburnum Odoratissimum | 3 Live Plants | Fast Growing Evergreen Shrub with Fragrant White Flowers |  | Best for Fast Privacy and Fragrant Blooms | Type: Shrub | Foliage: Evergreen | Flowers: Fragrant white | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Encore Azalea 1 Gal. Autumn Majesty Azalea Shrub |  | Best for Colorful Evergreen Interest in Mild Climates | Size: 42 inches H x 36 inches W | Zone: 6a-9b | Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| It’s Not Dead Yet mitogrow Tree & Shrub Plant Support |  | Best for Supporting Rapid Establishment and Stress Recovery | Active Ingredient: 2.50% Indole-3-Butyric Acid | Additional Components: B vitamins, Bacillus bacteria, mycorrhizal fungi | Application: Transplant support, root growth enhancement | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| 6 Highlander Boxwood – Fast-Growing Evergreen Shrub for Privacy Hedges, Screens & Borders |  | Best Overall for Versatile, Low-Maintenance Privacy Screening | Quantity: 6 plants | Plant Type: Evergreen shrub | Variety: Buxus sempervirens ‘Highlander’ | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Nellie Stevens Holly 1 Gal. Pot | Fast Growing Privacy Evergreen |  | Best for Tall, Dense Privacy Screens with Seasonal Interest | Size: 1 Gallon Pot | Growth Habit: Dense, fast-growing evergreen | Height: Up to 25 ft | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Southern Living 2 Gal. Obsession Nandina Shrub |  | Best for Colorful, Low-Maintenance Landscape Accents | Plant Type: Nandina Shrub | Size: 2 Gallons | Zones: 6–10 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Brighter Blooms Thuja Green Giant Arborvitae, 2-3 ft |  | Best for Rapid, Uniform Privacy Screening in Small to Medium Spaces | Height: 2–3 ft | Growth Rate: 3–5 ft per year | Shipping Restrictions: No to AK, AZ, HI, OR | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Perfect Plants Thuja Green Giant 3 Gallon – Live Evergreen Tree for Landscaping & Privacy
The Thuja Green Giant stands out as the most versatile choice for creating quick privacy screens thanks to its rapid growth rate of 3 feet annually and impressive mature size of 40 feet tall and 20 feet wide. Compared with smaller options like the Brighter Blooms Emerald Green Arborvitae, it offers much greater coverage with less frequent planting, making it ideal for large-scale landscaping. Its deer resistance and adaptability across zones 5-9 further enhance its appeal, though it does require consistent watering and mulching in the first year. The main tradeoff is its size—it’s best suited for larger yards or commercial landscapes and isn’t suitable where space is limited. This pick makes the most sense for homeowners seeking a fast, durable privacy barrier with minimal ongoing effort.
Pros:- Fast-growing, reaching up to 3 feet per year
- Creates substantial privacy quickly
- Deer-resistant and adaptable to various zones
- Low-maintenance once established
Cons:- Cannot be shipped to California or Arizona
- Requires regular watering and mulching in the first year
Best for: Homeowners needing quick, tall privacy screens in sizable yards or commercial landscapes.
Not ideal for: Small garden spaces or urban settings where space is limited and a smaller shrub is preferable.
- Growth Rate:3 feet per year
- Mature Size:40 feet tall, 20 feet wide
- Hardiness Zones:5-9
- Soil:Well-drained soil
Our verdict“This shrub is perfect for large-scale privacy needs where quick growth and low maintenance are priorities.”
Dwarf Red Burning Bush Live Plant, 2.5 Inch Pot
The Dwarf Red Burning Bush excels in adding striking seasonal color, with its vibrant red fall foliage making it a favorite for borders and hedges. While it reaches a mature height of 4-8 feet, its smaller size compared to the Perfect Plants Thuja Green Giant makes it less suitable for privacy screens but perfect for adding bold color accents. It’s hardy across USDA zones 4-8, which covers a broad range of climates, though it demands full sun and well-drained soil to thrive. A notable tradeoff is its taller mature height, which may not suit very small yards, and it cannot be shipped to colder northern states like NY or VT. This shrub is ideal for gardeners wanting vibrant seasonal color and a manageable size for mixed borders.
Pros:- Vibrant red fall foliage provides seasonal wow factor
- Versatile for hedges, borders, or privacy screens
- Hardy across zones 4-8
- Adds visual interest in a compact size
Cons:- Cannot be shipped to NY, NH, MA, or VT
- Requires full sun and well-drained soil
Best for: Gardeners seeking seasonal color accents in full sun within zones 4-8.
Not ideal for: Small yards or shady gardens where full sun isn’t available or mature height is a concern.
- Plant Type:Live Plant
- Size:2.5 Inch Pot
- Mature Height:4-8 Feet
- USDA Zones:4-8
- Features:Vibrant red fall foliage
Our verdict“This shrub is best for adding dramatic fall color in sunny spots within its hardy zones, but it’s less suited for small or shaded gardens.”
Wax Myrtle | 20 Live Plants | Myrica Cerifera | Fast Growing Shrub, Privacy Screen, Evergreen Foliage, Drought Tolerant, Low Maintenance
The Wax Myrtle offers a fast-growing, evergreen option that provides year-round privacy with aromatic foliage. Its drought-tolerance and low-maintenance profile make it well-suited for diverse landscapes, especially where irrigation is limited. Unlike the Neatball Boxwood, which maintains a tidy, compact form, the Wax Myrtle can grow more freely and fill large spaces quickly, making it ideal for natural screens. However, its rapid growth can mean it requires regular pruning to keep it shaped, and in some regions, it may become invasive if not properly managed. This shrub makes the most sense for gardeners looking for a natural, low-effort privacy hedge in dry or mixed landscapes.
Pros:- Evergreen foliage provides all-year privacy
- Fast-growing and drought tolerant
- Aromatic leaves add sensory appeal
- Low maintenance overall
Cons:- May require regular pruning to maintain shape
- Potential invasiveness if unmanaged
Best for: Landscapers and homeowners wanting a fast, aromatic hedge with minimal watering.
Not ideal for: Small gardens or regions where invasive species management is difficult or not permitted.
- Plant Type:Live Plants
- Quantity:20
- Species:Myrica Cerifera
- Growth Rate:Fast
- Features:Evergreen, Drought tolerant, Aromatic
Our verdict“This shrub is ideal for natural privacy screens in dry environments, but requires regular pruning to prevent overgrowth.”
Proven Winners 1 Gal. Neatball Boxwood Shrub
The Neatball Boxwood distinguishes itself with a compact, tidy shape that remains attractive year-round. Compared with larger, fast-growing options like the Thuja Green Giant, it offers a more controlled size, making it perfect for front garden beds or small borders. Its hardiness across zones 5-9 and minimal watering needs make it a low-maintenance choice for gardeners who prefer neat, evergreen foliage. However, its mature size remains somewhat uncertain beyond 36 inches, and it doesn’t provide the height or coverage of larger shrubs. This shrub is best for those seeking a durable, compact evergreen that requires little attention and stays neat over time.
Pros:- Exceptional hardiness across zones 5-9
- Low maintenance and easy to care for
- Year-round evergreen foliage with seasonal interest
- Compact growth suitable for small spaces
Cons:- Limited mature size information beyond 36 inches
- Requires full sun to partial shade
Best for: Gardeners wanting a small, tidy evergreen shrub for borders or foundation planting with minimal upkeep.
Not ideal for: Large-scale privacy screens or where quick growth to tall heights is needed.
- USDA Hardiness Zone:5-9
- Mature Size:24-36 inches W x 24-36 inches H
- Sunlight:Full sun to partial shade
- Water Needs:Little to no watering
- Expected Plant Height:36 inches
Our verdict“This shrub suits gardeners seeking a neat, low-maintenance evergreen for small spaces or borders, but it isn’t ideal for quick privacy or tall screens.”
Brighter Blooms Emerald Green Arborvitae, 1-2 Feet – Live Plant
The Emerald Green Arborvitae offers a manageable size for gardeners wanting a quick, easy privacy hedge. Growing just 1-2 feet tall, it’s ideal for small yards or as a low border, especially compared to the larger Perfect Plants Thuja Green Giant. Its adaptability to various soil types and weather conditions makes it a reliable, low-maintenance choice. The main limitation is its height—if you require a taller privacy screen, you’ll need to plant multiple units or choose a larger shrub. Shipping restrictions to AK, AZ, HI, and OR further limit its availability. This shrub makes sense for urban or small garden settings where space is tight but quick coverage is still needed.
Pros:- Easy to grow and maintain
- Provides effective privacy in a compact size
- Adapts well to various soil and weather conditions
Cons:- Limited height range (1-2 feet)
- Shipping restrictions limit availability
Best for: Homeowners with small yards or planters needing quick, low-maintenance privacy at a limited height.
Not ideal for: Large landscapes or those needing tall, mature privacy screens.
- Height:1-2 Feet
- Type:Live Plant
- Plant Category:Evergreen Shrub
Our verdict“This shrub is perfect for small spaces needing quick privacy, but it won’t replace taller hedges in larger landscapes.”
Wintergreen Boxwood, Live Plant, 3-Gallon Container, Evergreen Shrub
The Wintergreen Boxwood stands out for its dense, compact form and glossy, dark green foliage that remains vibrant throughout the year, making it a versatile choice for hedges, borders, or standalone accents. Compared to the Encore Azalea, which offers seasonal color, this shrub provides consistent greenery, but it requires well-draining soil and full or partial sun to thrive—conditions essential for avoiding root rot. Its cold hardiness makes it suitable for a wider range of climates than some other evergreen options. The tradeoff is that it needs regular maintenance to keep its density and health, especially in less-than-ideal soil. Ideal for gardeners seeking a low-maintenance, evergreen backdrop that performs year-round, regardless of season.
Pros:- Provides year-round visual interest with evergreen foliage
- Versatile use as hedge, border, or standalone feature
- Cold hardy and adaptable to various conditions
Cons:- Requires full or partial sun for optimal growth
- Needs well-draining soil to prevent root issues
Best for: Gardeners wanting a reliable, evergreen foundation plant for mixed landscapes or formal hedges.
Not ideal for: Those with shaded gardens or poor-draining soil, as the shrub needs adequate sunlight and drainage to thrive.
- Mature Size:3-4 feet in height and width
- Container Size:3-gallon nursery container
- Appearance:Glossy, dark green leaves
- Growing Conditions:Partial to full sun, well-draining soil
- Hardiness:Cold hardy
Our verdict“This shrub offers consistent evergreen appeal, making it ideal for those seeking low-maintenance, year-round greenery.”
Lynwood Gold Forsythia Bush – Yellow Flowering Shrub – Live Plant, 1-2 Feet Tall
The Lynwood Gold Forsythia offers an immediate burst of vibrant yellow flowers in early spring, making it an excellent choice for adding seasonal brightness. Unlike the Viburnum Odoratissimum, which provides year-round evergreen privacy, the Forsythia is deciduous and leaves it leafless in winter, so it won’t provide winter interest. Its shipped bare root with clear planting instructions makes it accessible for novice gardeners, but its smaller size upon arrival means it requires time to reach its full stature. This is a good pick for those who want fast spring color without much fuss, but it’s not suited as a year-round screening shrub. Perfect for gardeners seeking a quick, colorful spring display in zones 5-9.
Pros:- Ready to plant with clear instructions
- Thrives across a wide USDA zone range (5-9)
- Delivered as bare root for healthy transplanting
Cons:- Deciduous nature means no winter foliage
- Limited to ground planting, not suitable for containers
Best for: Homeowners looking for a seasonal splash of yellow in early spring that is easy to establish.
Not ideal for: Those wanting a shrub for winter interest or year-round screening, as it is deciduous and small initially.
- Type:Forsythia Bush
- Color:Yellow
- Size:1-2 feet tall
- Planting Zone:5-9
- Plant Type:Deciduous shrub
Our verdict“This Forsythia is ideal for those who prioritize quick spring color and easy planting, but it won’t provide winter greenery.”
Viburnum Odoratissimum | 3 Live Plants | Fast Growing Evergreen Shrub with Fragrant White Flowers
The Viburnum Odoratissimum excels at quickly creating dense privacy screens thanks to its fast growth rate and evergreen nature. Its fragrant white flowers attract pollinators, adding seasonal interest, unlike the Encore Azalea, which offers colorful blooms but less privacy. This set of three plants provides a substantial foundation for hedges, with low maintenance and drought tolerance, making it suitable for busy gardens. The main tradeoff is that it requires sufficient space for full growth and may have seasonal flowering depending on climate. Compared to other quick-growing shrubs, it offers a combination of privacy, fragrance, and resilience. Best suited for gardeners wanting rapid growth with minimal upkeep and added sensory appeal.
Pros:- Fast-growing and dense for quick privacy
- Fragrant white flowers attract pollinators
- Low-maintenance and drought tolerant
Cons:- Requires space for full expansion
- Potentially seasonal flowering depending on climate
Best for: Homeowners seeking fast-growing, fragrant privacy hedges with low maintenance needs.
Not ideal for: Gardeners with limited space or those preferring seasonal or ornamental shrubs with less dense growth.
- Type:Shrub
- Foliage:Evergreen
- Flowers:Fragrant white
- Growth Rate:Fast
- Maintenance:Low
- Drought Tolerance:Yes
Our verdict“This shrub set delivers rapid privacy and fragrant blooms, ideal for those prioritizing quick coverage with minimal care.”
Encore Azalea 1 Gal. Autumn Majesty Azalea Shrub
The Encore Azalea Autumn Majesty provides year-round interest with its evergreen foliage and vibrant fall color, making it a standout for gardens in USDA zones 6a-9b. It prefers full sun to partial shade, unlike the Wintergreen Boxwood, which tolerates more shade and offers a more uniform evergreen appearance. While it offers minimal maintenance, its limited zone range means it won’t perform well in colder or hotter extremes outside its comfort zone. Its spring blooms and fall color add seasonal dynamism, but it doesn’t provide the same instant privacy or quick growth as the Viburnum Odoratissimum. This makes it best for gardeners prioritizing color and seasonal interest in a relatively mild climate. Ideal for those wanting a colorful, low-maintenance evergreen shrub for zones 6a-9b.
Pros:- Provides year-round evergreen foliage
- Vibrant fall color enhances seasonal interest
- Low maintenance and easy to care for
Cons:- Limited to USDA zones 6a-9b
- Relatively slow growth compared to other shrubs
Best for: Gardeners in mild climates seeking colorful, evergreen shrubs with seasonal blooms and minimal upkeep.
Not ideal for: Cold climate gardeners or those needing rapid growth for privacy, as it grows slowly and is zone-restricted.
- Size:42 inches H x 36 inches W
- Zone:6a-9b
- Sunlight:Full sun to partial shade
- Type:Evergreen
Our verdict“This azalea is perfect for gardeners in mild climates seeking a colorful, evergreen shrub with low effort and seasonal appeal.”
It’s Not Dead Yet mitogrow Tree & Shrub Plant Support
The mitogrow Plant Support supplement is designed to accelerate root development, reduce transplant shock, and promote healthier growth in new or stressed shrubs, including the Wintergreen Boxwood and Viburnum Odoratissimum. While it doesn’t directly influence growth rate, its role in supporting rapid establishment makes it invaluable for gardeners planting multiple fast-growing shrubs. Compared with waiting for natural growth, this product can shorten the time it takes for shrubs to reach their desired size, especially in challenging conditions. The main tradeoff is that multiple applications may be needed, and its effectiveness depends heavily on proper application. It’s best suited for those planting new shrubs or recovering stressed plants, rather than as a routine growth booster. Ideal for gardeners wanting to give their fast-growing shrubs a healthy start and minimize transplant shock.
Pros:- Promotes faster root development
- Reduces transplant shock and stress
- Supports overall plant health throughout the year
Cons:- May require multiple applications for full effect
- Effectiveness depends on correct usage
Best for: Landscapers or homeowners planting new shrubs who want quicker establishment and less stress during transplanting.
Not ideal for: Those not actively transplanting or recovering stressed plants, as it offers limited benefits otherwise.
- Active Ingredient:2.50% Indole-3-Butyric Acid
- Additional Components:B vitamins, Bacillus bacteria, mycorrhizal fungi
- Application:Transplant support, root growth enhancement
Our verdict“This support product is a valuable tool for ensuring rapid, healthy establishment of newly planted or stressed shrubs.”
6 Highlander Boxwood – Fast-Growing Evergreen Shrub for Privacy Hedges, Screens & Borders
The Highlander Boxwood stands out as the best overall choice for those seeking a dense, evergreen hedge that grows quickly and requires minimal fuss. Compared with the Brighter Blooms Thuja Green Giant, which is faster and taller but less adaptable to smaller spaces, Highlander offers a more controlled size with reliable growth. Its dense foliage quickly creates privacy, but natural variations in size mean you might need some shaping over time. It’s suitable for zones 5–9, making it a flexible option for many climates. While it thrives with little maintenance, occasional pruning is necessary to keep it looking tidy. The main tradeoff is that it doesn’t grow as tall or fast as some alternatives, but its adaptability and year-round greenery make it a strong all-rounder.
Pros:- Dense, fast-growing foliage for quick privacy coverage
- Low-maintenance and cold-hardy in zones 5–9
- Suitable for borders, screens, and landscaping uses
Cons:- Natural size and shape variations may require pruning
- Excludes shipping to Alaska, Hawaii, and Puerto Rico
Best for: Landscape designers and homeowners wanting a reliable, low-maintenance hedge with year-round privacy.
Not ideal for: Gardeners seeking a shrub that grows extremely tall in a very short time or those in USDA zones outside 5–9.
- Quantity:6 plants
- Plant Type:Evergreen shrub
- Variety:Buxus sempervirens ‘Highlander’
- Size:3.5-inch cubes
- Height:6–7 ft
- Width:2–3 ft
- USDA Zones:5–9
Our verdict“This shrub offers a reliable, adaptable choice for those wanting quick privacy with minimal upkeep.”
Nellie Stevens Holly 1 Gal. Pot | Fast Growing Privacy Evergreen
The Nellie Stevens Holly is ideal for those wanting a tall, fast-growing evergreen that provides a lush privacy barrier and seasonal color. In comparison to the 6 Highlander Boxwood, which offers a more compact and formal look, Nellie Stevens Holly can reach up to 25 feet, making it perfect for large privacy needs. Its dense foliage offers year-round coverage, and spring white flowers along with fall red berries add seasonal interest. However, its rapid growth means it may require regular pruning, especially if space is limited. It’s best suited for zones 6–9, and requires consistent watering after planting, unlike the low-maintenance Highlander. While it grows tall quickly, this can be a drawback if space is constrained or if frequent pruning isn’t desired.
Pros:- Fast-growing and dense for immediate privacy
- Evergreen foliage provides all-year coverage
- Produces attractive white flowers and red berries
Cons:- Requires regular watering and fertilization
- Can grow quite tall, needing pruning in smaller spaces
Best for: Homeowners wanting a tall, fast-growing hedge for privacy that also provides seasonal berries and flowers.
Not ideal for: Gardeners with limited space or those seeking a shrub that requires minimal pruning or maintenance.
- Size:1 Gallon Pot
- Growth Habit:Dense, fast-growing evergreen
- Height:Up to 25 ft
- Width:Up to 15 ft
- Foliage:Glossy green
- Flowers:White in spring
- Berries:Red in fall
- Hardiness Zones:6–9
Our verdict“This shrub is perfect for those seeking a quick, tall privacy screen with seasonal ornamental features.”
Southern Living 2 Gal. Obsession Nandina Shrub
While not a traditional privacy shrub, the Obsession Nandina earns a spot for its stunning foliage and year-round appeal. Compared with the Highlander Boxwood and Nellie Stevens Holly, which focus on privacy, Nandina excels as a decorative accent that adds vibrant red and bronze tones across seasons. It’s hardy in zones 6–10 and thrives with minimal care, making it suitable for gardens where color and texture matter more than height. Its slower growth rate and limited mature size mean it won’t quickly create barriers but works well as a filler or border plant. It needs regular watering initially but is otherwise quite forgiving. This pick makes the most sense for gardeners looking for continuous visual interest rather than quick privacy.
Pros:- Vibrant, colorful foliage year-round
- Low-maintenance and drought tolerant
- Suitable for a wide temperature range (zones 6–10)
Cons:- Limited height growth, not ideal for privacy screens
- Requires regular watering until established
Best for: Gardeners wanting a decorative shrub that provides seasonal color with low maintenance.
Not ideal for: Those seeking a fast-growing privacy hedge or tall barrier plant.
- Plant Type:Nandina Shrub
- Size:2 Gallons
- Zones:6–10
- Light Requirements:Sun to part shade
- Watering:Twice per week until established, then once per week
Our verdict“This shrub is perfect for adding seasonal color and texture to gardens that don’t need quick privacy barriers.”
Brighter Blooms Thuja Green Giant Arborvitae, 2-3 ft
The Brighter Blooms Thuja Green Giant is a go-to for quick, reliable privacy in smaller landscapes. With a growth rate of 3–5 feet annually, it surpasses the Highlander Boxwood in speed and height, making it ideal for those who want fast results. Unlike the Nellie Stevens Holly, which takes longer to establish and requires more care, Green Giant is largely low-maintenance and doesn’t demand pruning to keep its shape. However, the shipping restrictions to states like Alaska, Arizona, and Hawaii limit its accessibility, and its listed size of 2–3 feet indicates it’s a starter size, not a mature hedge. This shrub is best for buyers needing an instant privacy barrier with minimal fuss, but those in restricted areas or seeking larger mature plants should consider alternatives.
Pros:- Very fast-growing, offering quick privacy
- Low-maintenance with no pruning required
- Creates a lush, uniform green landscape
Cons:- Limited shipping options to certain states
- Size options are limited to 2–3 ft at purchase
Best for: Homeowners or landscapers needing a fast-growing, low-maintenance privacy solution in small to medium spaces.
Not ideal for: Buyers in restricted shipping zones or those wanting a large, mature hedge upfront.
- Height:2–3 ft
- Growth Rate:3–5 ft per year
- Shipping Restrictions:No to AK, AZ, HI, OR
Our verdict“This shrub is perfect for quick privacy creation in suitable regions, with minimal upkeep required.”
How We Picked
I evaluated each shrub based on growth rate, ease of maintenance, adaptability to different climates, and overall landscape impact. Plants that showed consistent, rapid height increase within their first years received higher scores. I also considered how well each shrub suited different landscape needs—whether for privacy, ornamental value, or low maintenance. The ranking reflects a balance between growth speed, reliability, and versatility, ensuring the selections meet a range of gardening priorities.Factors to Consider When Choosing Best Fast-growing Shrubs
Choosing the right fast-growing shrub depends on several key factors. Beyond mere height increase, consider your climate, soil, and landscape goals. Proper selection ensures your investment provides the desired privacy, aesthetic, or environmental benefits without excessive maintenance. Here are some critical considerations to keep in mind when selecting your shrubs.Growth Rate and Maturity
While all shrubs in this list are classified as fast-growing, actual growth speed can vary based on species and conditions. Some plants may reach full height within a few years, while others take longer but grow denser. Understanding your timeline helps determine whether you need immediate privacy or a longer-term investment. Also, consider the mature size to avoid overplanting or the need for frequent pruning.
Climate Compatibility
Not all shrubs thrive in every region. Soil type, temperature extremes, and humidity levels influence success. For instance, drought-tolerant plants like Wax Myrtle perform well in dry areas, while others may require more moisture or protection from cold snaps. Always check the USDA hardiness zone compatibility to ensure your chosen shrub will flourish in your location.
Maintenance and Pruning Needs
Fast-growing shrubs often need regular trimming to maintain shape and health. Some, like boxwoods, respond well to shaping, while others, such as hollies, may require more effort to prevent overgrowth. Consider your willingness and ability to prune regularly—low-maintenance options save time but may grow less dense or lose shape without intervention.
Aesthetic and Functional Goals
Decide whether your priority is privacy, ornamental flowers, or foliage color. Some fast growers like Forsythia burst with bright blooms, while evergreen options provide year-round coverage. Matching shrub characteristics with your landscape vision ensures satisfaction and minimizes the risk of planting a shrub that doesn’t meet your aesthetic or functional needs.
Initial Cost and Size
Plant size at purchase influences how quickly a shrub will achieve your desired coverage. Larger, more mature plants cost more but provide immediate impact, whereas smaller plants are more affordable but take longer to reach desired height. Balance budget with your timeline to select the most suitable option for your landscape plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take for these shrubs to reach full height?
The timeline varies by species and growing conditions. Most fast-growing shrubs in this list can reach half their mature height within 2-3 years, with some, like Thuja Green Giant, achieving full height in about 5-7 years. Proper care, soil, and climate can accelerate or slow this process, so choosing a species suited to your environment is key.
Are these shrubs suitable for small yards or limited spaces?
Some shrubs, like the dwarf varieties or compact boxwoods, are better suited for small spaces, while larger varieties like Thuja Green Giant need ample room to grow. Always check mature size before planting, and consider pruning to keep growth within manageable limits if space is tight.
Which shrubs require the least maintenance?
Evergreen options such as Wax Myrtle and Nellie Stevens Holly tend to need less pruning and are more drought-tolerant, making them ideal for low-maintenance landscapes. However, even these will benefit from occasional trimming to maintain shape and health, especially in the early years.
Can I plant these shrubs in containers?
Many of these shrubs can be grown in large containers, especially the smaller varieties like Neatball Boxwood or dwarf Forsythia. Container planting allows for easier mobility and control over growth, but it also requires more frequent watering and fertilization to support rapid growth.
What are common mistakes when planting fast-growing shrubs?
One common mistake is planting too close to structures or other plants without considering mature size, leading to overcrowding. Another is neglecting soil preparation; poor drainage or inadequate nutrients can stunt growth. Overwatering or planting in unsuitable climates can also hinder growth or cause health issues, so understanding your specific conditions is vital.
Conclusion
For those seeking immediate privacy and quick landscape transformation, the Perfect Plants Thuja Green Giant offers the fastest, most reliable growth. Beginners or low-maintenance gardeners should consider the Wax Myrtle or Nellie Stevens Holly for their resilience and ease. Gardeners with larger spaces and a budget for mature plants will appreciate the instant impact of larger, pre-grown shrubs. For specialty needs like colorful blooms, options such as Forsythia or Azaleas provide fast growth with added visual interest. Ultimately, your choice should align with your landscape goals, climate, and maintenance capacity to ensure long-term satisfaction.
