If you’re looking to add quick privacy, vibrant blooms, or lush greenery to your landscape, choosing the best fast-growing shrubs is key. The Perfect Plants Thuja Green Giant stands out as the top overall pick for its rapid growth and evergreen coverage. For those seeking colorful accents, the Dwarf Red Burning Bush offers striking red foliage that develops quickly. Keep in mind, these shrubs often trade off slower growth for maintenance needs or space requirements. Continue reading for a detailed breakdown of the best options and what to consider before planting.
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Key Takeaways
- The fastest-growing shrubs often require more space to accommodate their rapid expansion.
- Evergreen varieties like Thuja Green Giant deliver year-round privacy but may need regular pruning to maintain shape.
- Deciduous options such as Forsythia grow quickly and offer vibrant seasonal blooms, though they lose foliage in winter.
- Drought tolerance varies among fast growers—some need supplemental watering during dry spells.
- Price and size at purchase can influence long-term value, with larger, established plants often costing more initially but growing faster.
| fast-growing shrub | Size |
|---|---|
| Perfect Plants Thuja Green Gia | — |
| Dwarf Red Burning Bush Live Pl | 2.5 Inch Pot |
| Encore Azalea 1 Gal. Autumn Ma | 1 gallon |
| 6 Highlander Boxwood | 3.5-inch cubes |
| Southern Living 2 Gal. Obsessi | 2 Gallons |
| Wax Myrtle | 20 Live Plants | | — |
| Viburnum Odoratissimum | 3 Liv | — |
| Lynwood Gold Forsythia Bush | — |
| Perfect Plants Sweet Viburnum | 3 Gallon |
| Nellie Stevens Holly 1 Gal. Po | 1 Gallon pot |
| Podocarpus Japanese Yew | — |
| Proven Winners 1 Gal. Neatball | — |
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 and rapid option for creating privacy hedges and screens. Its ability to grow up to 3 feet annually and reach 40 feet high makes it ideal for quickly establishing tall barriers. Compared to the Highlander Boxwood, which offers dense coverage but grows more slowly and stays smaller, Green Giant delivers immediate impact but requires more space and initial watering. Its deer-resistance and drought tolerance add to its appeal for low-maintenance landscapes. However, it can’t be shipped to California or Arizona, and young plants need consistent watering in the first year. This pick makes the most sense for homeowners seeking fast, tall privacy screens with minimal ongoing fuss, provided they can accommodate its size and watering needs.
Pros:- Fast growth rate of about 3 feet per year for quick privacy
- Deer-resistant and adaptable to various zones
- Low-maintenance and drought-tolerant once established
Cons:- Requires regular watering and mulching in the first year
- Cannot be shipped to California or Arizona, limiting availability
Best for: Homeowners wanting rapid privacy screens and fast landscaping impact in zones 5-9
Not ideal for: Small gardens or homeowners in California or Arizona who cannot handle large, mature trees or shipping restrictions
- Growth Rate:3 feet per year
- Mature Size:40 feet tall, 20 feet wide
- Hardiness Zones:5-9
- Soil Requirements:Well-drained soil
Our verdict“This is the best choice for those seeking a tall, fast-growing evergreen privacy hedge with minimal fuss after establishment.”
Dwarf Red Burning Bush Live Plant, 2.5 Inch Pot
The Dwarf Red Burning Bush makes a striking focal point with its vibrant red fall foliage, perfect for adding seasonal color. While it grows more slowly—about 4-8 feet tall—it offers a manageable size for smaller landscapes or foundation planting, unlike the larger Green Giant. It’s well-suited for USDA Zones 4-8, thriving in full sun with well-drained soil. Compared to the Encore Autumn Majesty Azalea, which offers evergreen interest, the Burning Bush provides dramatic fall color but loses leaves in winter, reducing year-round visual interest. Its limited availability for shipping to places like NY, NH, and MA is a drawback for some buyers. This shrub is ideal for those wanting a vibrant, low-maintenance accent with seasonal appeal and manageable size.
Pros:- Vibrant red fall foliage for seasonal impact
- Suitable for hedges and privacy screens in smaller spaces
- Hardy across USDA zones 4-8
Cons:- Limited size at purchase (2.5-inch pot), requiring time to grow
- Not available for shipping in some northern states
Best for: Gardeners in zones 4-8 seeking seasonal color and manageable shrub size
Not ideal for: Buyers in colder zones below 4 or who want year-round evergreen foliage
- Size:2.5 Inch Pot
- Mature Height:4-8 Feet
- USDA Zones:4-8
- Sunlight:Full sun
Our verdict“This shrub offers seasonal brilliance and manageable growth, making it perfect for colorful accents in medium-sized gardens.”
Encore Azalea 1 Gal. Autumn Majesty Azalea Shrub
The Autumn Majesty Azalea provides a compact, evergreen foundation with the added appeal of spring blooms and striking fall foliage. Growing up to 42 inches tall and 36 inches wide, it offers a manageable size for beds and borders, especially when compared to larger evergreen options. It’s best suited for USDA zones 6a-9b, preferring partial to full sun. While it requires low maintenance, its growth depends on proper sun exposure; in shadier spots, it may not flourish. Unlike the Thuja Green Giant, which grows rapidly and tall, the Azalea emphasizes visual interest year-round but won’t provide the same level of privacy or height quickly. It’s ideal for gardeners wanting an evergreen shrub with seasonal color and minimal upkeep.
Pros:- Evergreen for year-round interest
- Low maintenance and easy to care for
- Suitable for USDA zones 6a-9b
Cons:- Requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth
- Limited to specific USDA zones
Best for: Gardeners in zones 6a-9b seeking a low-maintenance, evergreen shrub with seasonal blooms
Not ideal for: Those in colder zones below 6a or needing rapid, tall privacy screens
- Size:1 gallon
- Mature Height:42 inches
- Mature Width:36 inches
- USDA Zones:6a-9b
- Sunlight:Full sun to partial shade
- Maintenance:Low
Our verdict“This shrub offers evergreen structure with seasonal color, perfect for smaller, low-maintenance landscapes in suitable zones.”
6 Highlander Boxwood – Fast-Growing Evergreen Shrub for Privacy Hedges, Screens & Borders
The Highlander Boxwood set offers a quick way to establish dense, evergreen privacy screens or formal borders. Growing to about 6-7 feet tall and 2-3 feet wide, these plants are ideal for creating structured hedges without waiting decades. Compared to the Autumn Majesty Azalea, which provides seasonal interest but less height, the Highlander Boxwood delivers year-round greenery with fast growth and a uniform shape. Its evergreen foliage ensures year-round coverage, though natural variation can lead to slight differences in size and appearance, requiring occasional pruning for a tidy look. The plants are suited for USDA zones 5-9 but are shipped only within certain states, which is a consideration for some buyers. This product is perfect for those wanting quick, dense privacy in a manageable size.
Pros:- Fast-growing and dense for quick privacy
- Evergreen foliage provides all-year coverage
- Suitable for USDA zones 5-9 and includes care instructions
Cons:- Natural size and appearance variations may occur
- Requires occasional pruning for shape
Best for: Homeowners seeking fast, dense evergreen privacy hedges in zones 5-9
Not ideal for: Buyers outside zones 5-9 or those wanting a more natural, less uniform hedge
- Quantity:6 plants
- Size:3.5-inch cubes
- Height:6-7 ft
- Width:2-3 ft
- USDA Zones:5-9
- Growth Rate:Fast-growing
Our verdict“This product is ideal for those wanting quick, dense, evergreen privacy in medium-sized gardens.”
Southern Living 2 Gal. Obsession Nandina Shrub
The Obsession Nandina brings a splash of color throughout all seasons, with its striking foliage that varies from deep green to fiery reds. Its compact size and low-maintenance nature make it suitable for foundation plantings, borders, or mixed shrub beds. While it doesn’t grow as rapidly as the Green Giant or Highlander Boxwood, it offers reliable visual interest with minimal effort, especially compared to the more finicky Azalea. It thrives in zones 6-10 and prefers full sun to part shade. Its main tradeoff is the need for regular watering until established and limited information on its mature size, which can vary. This shrub suits gardeners who value consistent color with low fuss over rapid growth or height.
Pros:- Beautiful, colorful foliage year-round
- Low maintenance and easy to care for
- Versatile sunlight tolerance
Cons:- Requires regular watering until established
- Limited information on mature size
Best for: Gardeners in zones 6-10 wanting a colorful, low-maintenance shrub with year-round appeal
Not ideal for: Those seeking fast-growing privacy screens or in colder zones below 6
- Size:2 Gallons
- USDA Zones:6-10
- Maintenance:Low
Our verdict“This shrub is perfect for adding seasonal color with minimal effort in suitable zones, especially in smaller landscapes.”
Wax Myrtle | 20 Live Plants | Myrica Cerifera | Fast Growing Shrub, Privacy Screen, Evergreen Foliage, Drought Tolerant, Low Maintenance
This Wax Myrtle stands out for its impressive combination of year-round privacy, low maintenance needs, and adaptability. Unlike the slower-growing Thuja Green Giant, it offers quick coverage with minimal effort, making it ideal for those seeking an immediate natural screen. However, its rapid growth can lead to heights exceeding expectations, requiring regular pruning in tight spaces. Its drought tolerance and evergreen foliage make it a reliable choice across many climates, especially for gardeners prioritizing low upkeep. The tradeoff is that it needs ample space to fully develop, which might be a concern in smaller gardens.
Pros:- Provides year-round privacy and aesthetic appeal
- Drought tolerant and adaptable to various soils
- Low maintenance makes it suitable for novices
Cons:- May grow taller than expected in optimal conditions
- Requires ample space for full growth
Best for: Homeowners wanting fast privacy screens with minimal care, especially in drought-prone areas
Not ideal for: Small urban yards with limited space or gardeners seeking topiary-level control
- Plant Type:Live Plants
- Quantity:20
- Species:Myrica Cerifera
- Growth Rate:Fast Growing
- Features:Evergreen Foliage, Drought Tolerant, Low Maintenance
Our verdict“This shrub is perfect for those seeking a fast, low-maintenance privacy hedge with year-round appeal.”
Viburnum Odoratissimum | 3 Live Plants | Fast Growing Shrub, Dense Evergreen Foliage, Fragrant White Flowers, Privacy Hedge, Low Maintenance, Drought Tolerant, Year-Round Interest
Compared to the Wax Myrtle, the Viburnum Odoratissimum offers the added benefit of fragrant white flowers in spring, making it an attractive choice for those who want both privacy and sensory appeal. Its dense evergreen foliage provides consistent coverage, similar to the foliage density of the Nellie Stevens Holly, but with less height potential. The rapid growth rate means it can establish a privacy screen quickly, yet this might require regular pruning to keep it within desired bounds. This shrub excels in low-maintenance routines and drought tolerance, but its limited cold tolerance makes it less suited for colder zones.
Pros:- Fast-growing and low-maintenance
- Fragrant white flowers attract pollinators
- Dense evergreen foliage provides year-round privacy
Cons:- May require pruning to maintain shape
- Growth rate can be too rapid for small or delicate gardens
Best for: Gardeners wanting fragrant, fast-growing privacy hedges in warmer climates
Not ideal for: Cold climate gardeners or those seeking a shrub with winter interest, as it sheds leaves in winter
- Number of Plants:3
- Plant Type:Shrub
- Foliage:Evergreen
- Flower Color:White
- Bloom Season:Spring
- Maintenance Level:Low
- Drought Tolerance:Yes
Our verdict“Ideal for warm climate gardeners seeking fragrant, quick privacy screens with minimal fuss.”
Lynwood Gold Forsythia Bush – Yellow Flowering Shrub – Live Plant, 1-2 Feet Tall
While the Forsythia is not as dense or evergreen as the Viburnum or Wax Myrtle, it shines for its vivid yellow flowers in early spring, making it a cheerful focal point. Unlike larger shrubs like Nellie Stevens Holly, its smaller size (1-2 feet) makes it perfect for limited spaces or border plantings. However, being deciduous, it offers no winter privacy or greenery, which might be a drawback for those seeking year-round screening. The plant’s size can vary, and it requires full sun for best flowering, with flowering potential being its biggest strength and limitation.
Pros:- Vibrant yellow flowers add lively color
- Suitable for zones 5-9 with detailed planting instructions
- Compact size ideal for small gardens
Cons:- Deciduous—no leaves or privacy in winter
- Size may vary slightly after planting
Best for: Gardeners wanting bright seasonal color in small or border plantings
Not ideal for: Those needing winter privacy or evergreen screening throughout the year
- Plant Type:Deciduous shrub
- Size Shipped:1-2 feet tall
- Zones:5-9
- Sunlight:Full to part sun
- Shipping Method:Bare root (California only)
Our verdict“Best for those seeking bright, seasonal spring color in smaller garden spaces.”
Perfect Plants Sweet Viburnum Shrub 3 Gallon | Live Shrubs for Outdoor Planting | Fast Growing Privacy Hedge | Fully Loaded Flowers Filled with Fragrance
This Sweet Viburnum emphasizes fragrant, spring-blooming flowers and rapid growth, making it a strong contender for creating quick privacy screens in warmer zones (8-10). Compared with the Wax Myrtle, it offers more fragrant floral displays and a more compact size, but it may require more space to reach its full height and spread. Its drought and heat tolerance make it suitable for southern gardens, though it may not thrive in colder zones. The evergreen foliage provides continuous coverage, but its size can become quite substantial, requiring regular pruning to maintain shape.
Pros:- Fast-growing and easy to establish
- Drought and heat tolerant for southern landscapes
- Fragrant flowers attract pollinators
Cons:- May require ample space for full growth
- Limited cold tolerance
Best for: Gardeners in zones 8-10 seeking fragrant, fast-establishing privacy hedges
Not ideal for: Cold climate gardeners or those wanting year-round evergreen coverage in zones below 8
- Size:3 Gallon
- Growth Rate:Fast
- Bloom Season:Spring
- Features:Heat & Drought Tolerant, Evergreen, Fragrant Flowers
Our verdict“This shrub suits those in warmer zones wanting fragrant, quick privacy solutions with minimal fuss.”
Nellie Stevens Holly 1 Gal. Pot – Fast Growing Privacy Evergreen with Glossy Green Foliage
The Nellie Stevens Holly is a prime choice for gardeners wanting dense, fast-growing evergreen privacy with the added bonus of seasonal berries. Compared with the Wax Myrtle, it can grow much taller—up to 25 feet—making it suitable as a hedge or small tree, though this also means it needs more pruning to maintain a manageable shape. Its glossy green foliage and winter berries offer visual interest year-round, unlike deciduous options like Forsythia. However, its height potential and the need for regular watering after planting may be drawbacks for those with limited space or inconsistent watering routines. It’s best suited for zones 6-9 where the climate supports holly’s growth.
Pros:- Fast-growing and dense for quick privacy
- Evergreen foliage with seasonal berries
- Low maintenance once established
Cons:- Can grow quite tall, requiring pruning
- Requires regular watering after planting
Best for: Homeowners seeking a fast, tall evergreen privacy screen with seasonal berries
Not ideal for: Small gardens or those in colder zones outside 6-9, due to size and hardiness limits
- Size:1 Gallon pot
- 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“Ideal for those needing a tall, fast-growing evergreen hedge with seasonal ornamental berries.”
Podocarpus Japanese Yew – 10 Live Plants – Evergreen Shrub for Landscaping
This Podocarpus Japanese Yew stands out for its adaptability and evergreen appeal, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a low-maintenance, versatile shrub. Compared to the Neatball Boxwood, which is more compact and easier to shape, the Yew offers broader application options, from hedges to standalone focal points. However, its slow to moderate growth rate means it takes time to reach full size, which can be a drawback for impatient gardeners. Its tolerance for a variety of soils and light conditions makes it an attractive option for larger landscapes, but it does require well-drained soil for best results. It’s better suited for those willing to wait for slower growth in exchange for long-term greenery.
Pros:- Evergreen foliage provides consistent year-round interest
- Low-maintenance, requiring minimal care once established
- Highly adaptable to different soil types and light conditions
- Versatile for hedges, screens, or standalone features
Cons:- Growth rate is slow to moderate, delaying full effect
- Requires well-drained soil; poor drainage can hinder growth
Best for: Gardeners wanting a versatile, evergreen shrub for foundational planting or topiary that adapts to various conditions.
Not ideal for: Immediate privacy seekers or those needing quick coverage, since its growth is slow to moderate.
- Type:Podocarpus Macrophyllus
- Plant Count:10 live plants
- Growth Rate:Slow to moderate
- Sunlight:Full sun to partial shade
- Soil:Well-drained, adaptable
Our verdict“This shrub is perfect for landscape planners prioritizing long-term greenery and versatility over rapid growth.”
Proven Winners 1 Gal. Neatball Boxwood Shrub
The Proven Winners Neatball Boxwood is a top choice for gardeners who want a consistent, compact shape with minimal fuss. Unlike the Podocarpus Yew, which offers more landscape flexibility but grows slowly, the Neatball Boxwood provides immediate visual impact with its dense, rounded form. It’s well-suited for small gardens or formal borders, thriving in USDA zones 5-9 with full sun. Its low water needs and durability make it ideal for those who prefer a tidy, low-maintenance shrub. The main tradeoff is its limited outdoor-only use and the need for regular trimming to maintain its shape, which might be less appealing to those seeking a more natural look or larger-scale coverage.
Pros:- Hardy across zones 5-9, suitable for many climates
- Low maintenance, requiring minimal watering and care
- Evergreen with year-round visual interest
- Compact growth habit perfect for small spaces
Cons:- Limited to outdoor use, not suitable for indoor gardens
- Requires full sun for best growth, limiting shady areas
- Needs trimming to keep its shape, which could be a chore
Best for: Homeowners wanting a neat, evergreen shrub for borders or small garden beds that require little upkeep.
Not ideal for: Gardeners seeking rapid coverage or larger plants, as it maxes out around 3 feet and needs regular trimming to stay tidy.
- USDA Hardiness Zone:5-9
- Expected Plant Height:36 inches
- Water Needs:Little to no watering
- Color:Dark green
- Sunlight Exposure:Full sun
- Item Weight:6 pounds
Our verdict“This shrub is ideal for those who want a reliable, tidy evergreen for borders with minimal maintenance but limited size growth.”
How We Picked
Our evaluation focused on growth rate, adaptability to different climates, maintenance needs, and overall health of the plants. We prioritized shrubs with proven rapid growth while considering their ease of care, durability, and landscape versatility. To ensure relevance, we selected a mix of evergreen and deciduous options, covering a range of aesthetic preferences and functional uses. The ranking reflects a balance between fast growth, low maintenance, and suitability for typical garden conditions.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Best Fast-growing Shrubs
Choosing the best fast-growing shrub depends on several factors beyond mere growth speed. Garden size, climate, and intended purpose—whether privacy, ornamental appeal, or ground cover—should shape your decision. Understanding these factors helps avoid common mistakes like overplanting in small spaces or selecting plants that require more care than you can provide.Growth Rate and Size
While fast growth is desirable, it’s essential to match the shrub’s mature size with your available space. Some plants, like Thuja Green Giant, can reach heights over 20 feet quickly, making them ideal for privacy screens but less suitable for small yards. Conversely, dwarf varieties may grow slower but fit better in limited spaces, offering a balanced approach if you prefer manageable size with rapid early growth.
Climate Compatibility
Not all fast-growing shrubs thrive in every climate zone. For instance, plants like Nellie Stevens Holly tolerate colder temperatures, while others like Wax Myrtle prefer milder, drought-prone areas. Selecting shrubs suited to your local climate minimizes stress and maintenance, leading to healthier, faster-growing plants with less intervention.
Maintenance and Pruning
Rapidly growing plants often require regular trimming to maintain shape and health. Evergreen options like boxwoods need periodic pruning to prevent overgrowth, while deciduous shrubs may need thinning after heavy growth spurts. Consider your willingness and ability to maintain these plants when choosing a shrub—more vigorous growers can become unruly without proper care.
Water and Soil Needs
Some fast-growing shrubs excel in drought-tolerant conditions, reducing watering needs once established, while others require consistent moisture. Soil preferences also vary; well-drained soil benefits most, but some species tolerate poorer conditions. Understanding these needs helps ensure you select plants that will flourish with minimal fuss.
Long-Term Value and Cost
While larger, established plants may cost more upfront, they often establish faster and provide immediate privacy or coverage. Smaller or younger plants are less expensive but take longer to reach desired size. Balancing initial investment with your timeline and landscape goals guides smarter purchasing decisions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can fast-growing shrubs be invasive?
Some fast-growing shrubs can spread aggressively and become invasive if not properly managed. For example, certain varieties of burning bush or wax myrtle may self-seed extensively in suitable conditions. To prevent this, choose non-invasive cultivars, monitor growth regularly, and prune to control spread. Checking local invasive species lists can also help you select responsible options for your landscape.
How often do I need to prune these shrubs?
The pruning frequency depends on the species and your desired shape, but most fast growers benefit from annual trimming to maintain size and health. Evergreen shrubs like boxwoods or hollies should be pruned lightly once a year, while deciduous options like forsythia may need more frequent shaping after their heavy growth periods. Proper pruning encourages healthy growth and prevents overgrowth issues.
Are fast-growing shrubs suitable for small gardens?
Fast-growing shrubs can be challenging in small spaces if not carefully chosen. Dwarf or slow-maturing varieties are often better suited to limited areas, as they reduce the risk of overcrowding. If speed is a priority, select compact, slow-maturing plants that still offer quick coverage without overwhelming the space, or plant smaller specimens and allow time to fill in over several seasons.
Do I need special soil or fertilizer for these shrubs?
Most fast-growing shrubs prefer well-drained, fertile soil but can adapt to a variety of conditions. Applying a balanced fertilizer during the growing season can promote healthy, rapid growth. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can lead to overly lush, weak growth susceptible to pests and disease. Testing your soil and following specific care instructions for each shrub will yield the best results.
What are the main tradeoffs of choosing fast-growing shrubs?
While fast-growing shrubs provide immediate landscape impact, they often require more maintenance, such as frequent pruning, and may have a shorter lifespan or be more invasive. They can also be more expensive initially, especially if you choose larger, established plants. Balancing rapid growth with long-term landscape goals and maintenance capacity is key to making a satisfying choice.
Conclusion
For those seeking quick privacy and a lush landscape, the Perfect Plants Thuja Green Giant remains the best overall choice thanks to its rapid, dense growth and evergreen coverage. Gardeners on a budget aiming for value might prefer the Proven Winners Neatball Boxwood for its manageable size and affordability. Beginners or those with limited maintenance capacity should consider deciduous options like Forsythia, which grow fast and bloom vividly but need less year-round care. For landscape professionals or those aiming for a premium look, the Encore Azalea Autumn Majesty offers striking color with reliable growth. Tailor your choice based on your specific garden size, climate, and maintenance preferences to achieve the best results.
