Searching for the best fast-growing shrubs? The Evergreen Green Giant makes an excellent overall choice for quick privacy and screening, thanks to its rapid growth and dense foliage. The Viburnum Odoratissimum stands out for its fragrant white flowers that bloom in summer, adding charm and scent to your landscape. However, buyers must balance growth speed with maintenance needs, as some species can become invasive or require regular pruning. Continue reading for a detailed breakdown of these options and more, to find the perfect shrubs for your garden goals.
Key Takeaways
- The fastest-growing shrubs often require regular pruning to maintain shape and size.
- Evergreens like Green Giant and Thuja are reliable for quick privacy but can be costly upfront.
- Flowering shrubs such as Forsythia and Nandina add visual interest early on, but may need winter protection.
- Drought-tolerant options like Wax Myrtle offer low maintenance, ideal for xeriscaping.
- The top-ranked shrubs balance rapid growth with long-term health and ease of care.
| Encore Azalea 1 Gal. Autumn Majesty Azalea Shrub |  | Best Overall for Year-Round Color and Low Maintenance | Size: 42 inches H x 36 inches W | Zone: 6a-9b | Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Viburnum Odoratissimum | 3 Live Plants | Fast Growing Evergreen Shrub with Fragrant White Flowers |  | Best for Fragrance and Quick Privacy Screening | Type: Live Plants | Quantity: 3 | Foliage: Evergreen | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| 6 Highlander Boxwood – Fast-Growing Evergreen Shrub for Privacy Hedges, Screens & Borders (Buxus sempervirens ‘Highlander’) in 3.5″ Cubes, Live Plants |  | Best for Formal Hedges and Versatile Landscaping | Quantity: 6 plants | Plant Type: Evergreen shrub | Variety: Buxus sempervirens ‘Highlander’ | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Dwarf Red Burning Bush Live Plant, 2.5 Inch Pot |  | Best for Seasonal Color and Hardy Landscaping | Plant Type: Live Plant | Size: 2.5 Inch Pot | Mature Height: 4-8 Feet | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Perfect Plants Thuja Green Giant 3 Gallon – Live Evergreen Tree for Landscaping & Privacy |  | Best for Rapid Height and Privacy in Larger Landscapes | 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 |
| Lynwood Gold Forsythia Bush – Yellow Flowering Shrub – Live Plant, 1-2 Feet Tall |  | Best for Early Color and Bright Spring Blooms | Type: Forsythia Bush | Color: Yellow | Size: 1-2 feet tall | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Brighter Blooms Thuja Green Giant Arborvitae, 2-3 ft |  | Best for Fast-Growing Privacy Screens | 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 |
| 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 Tolerance | Plant Type: Live Plants | Quantity: 20 | Growth Rate: Fast | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Proven Winners 1 Gal. Neatball Boxwood Shrub |  | Best for Tidy, Year-Round Evergreen Shape | USDA Hardiness Zone: 5-9 | Mature Size: 24-36 in. W x 24-36 in. H | Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Nellie Stevens Holly 1 Gal. Pot | Fast Growing Privacy Evergreen |  | Best for Dense, Tall Privacy Hedges | Size: 1 Gallon Pot | Growth Habit: Dense, fast-growing | Height: Up to 25 ft | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Brighter Blooms Emerald Green Arborvitae, 1-2 Feet – Live Plant |  | Best for Easy Privacy Screens and Low Maintenance | Height: 1-2 Feet | Type: Live Plant | Plant Category: Evergreen Shrub | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Southern Living 2 Gal. Obsession Nandina Shrub |  | Best for Year-Round Color and Versatile Landscaping | Plant Type: Nandina Shrub | Size: 2 Gallons | Zones: 6-10 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| It’s Not Dead Yet mitogrow Tree & Shrub Plant Support |  | Best for Enhancing Growth and Reducing Transplant Shock | Active Ingredient: 2.50% Indole-3-Butyric Acid | Additional Components: B vitamins, Bacillus bacteria, fungi | Application: Tree and shrub support, transplant stress reduction | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Wintergreen Boxwood, Live Plant, 3-Gallon Container, Evergreen Shrub |  | Best for Year-Round Formal Hedges and Cold Hardiness | 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 |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Encore Azalea 1 Gal. Autumn Majesty Azalea Shrub
This evergreen azalea stands out for its ability to provide vibrant year-round interest with minimal effort, making it ideal for homeowners seeking consistent beauty. Compared with the Perfect Plants Thuja Green Giant, which offers height and privacy, the Encore Azalea excels in decorative appeal but remains smaller, topping out around 42 inches. Its low maintenance needs and adaptability to USDA zones 6a-9b make it suitable for a range of gardens, though it requires full sun to partial shade, limiting placement options in overly shaded areas. While its compact size limits its use as a tall privacy screen, it works beautifully as a flowering accent or foundation shrub. The main tradeoff is its zone restriction, which excludes colder northern gardens.
Pros:- Provides striking color year-round, including winter interest
- Low-maintenance and easy to care for
- Suitable for USDA zones 6a-9b, offering versatility
Cons:- Limited to specific USDA zones, restricting northern or colder regions
- Requires full sun to partial shade, limiting shaded garden spots
Best for: Gardeners wanting a colorful, low-maintenance shrub that provides seasonal interest and fits smaller spaces.
Not ideal for: Cold climate gardeners in zones below 6a or those seeking tall privacy hedges, as the shrub maxes out around 42 inches tall.
- Size:42 inches H x 36 inches W
- Zone:6a-9b
- Sunlight:Full sun to partial shade
- Type:Evergreen
Our verdict“This pick is perfect for homeowners who want a decorative, easy-care shrub with seasonal appeal in moderate climates.”
Viburnum Odoratissimum | 3 Live Plants | Fast Growing Evergreen Shrub with Fragrant White Flowers
This viburnum offers rapid growth and fragrant white flowers, making it ideal for creating privacy screens or adding sensory appeal to a garden. Unlike the Highlander Boxwood, which offers a more formal look and slower growth, the Viburnum Odoratissimum provides dense foliage and quick coverage, though it may require more space to reach its full potential. Its low-maintenance nature and drought tolerance make it suitable for busy gardeners, but its flowering can be seasonal, which might disappoint those seeking constant blooms. Its dense growth makes it perfect for screening but may need space for full development, especially in smaller yards.
Pros:- Fast-growing and provides quick privacy coverage
- Fragrant white flowers attract pollinators
- Low-maintenance and drought tolerant
Cons:- Requires ample space for full growth
- Potentially seasonal flowering depending on climate
Best for: Homeowners wanting quick privacy and fragrant flowers with minimal fuss.
Not ideal for: Gardeners with limited space or in regions where flowering is less reliable due to climate variability.
- Type:Live Plants
- Quantity:3
- Foliage:Evergreen
- Flowers:Fragrant White
- Growth Rate:Fast
- Maintenance:Low
Our verdict“Ideal for those seeking fast, fragrant privacy hedges with little effort, provided space isn’t limited.”
6 Highlander Boxwood – Fast-Growing Evergreen Shrub for Privacy Hedges, Screens & Borders (Buxus sempervirens ‘Highlander’) in 3.5″ Cubes, Live Plants
The Highlander Boxwood provides a dense, fast-growing evergreen that excels in creating neat, formal privacy screens or borders. Unlike the Viburnum Odoratissimum, which offers rapid growth with fragrant flowers, the boxwood emphasizes structure and uniformity, making it better suited for controlled shapes and formal landscapes. Its adaptability to USDA zones 5-9 broadens its use, but natural variations in size and appearance can affect uniformity unless carefully pruned. While it offers year-round greenery and low maintenance, it requires occasional shaping to stay tidy, and ships only in certain regions. It’s a reliable choice for gardeners prioritizing a classic hedge shape over flowering display.
Pros:- Fast-growing and dense for quick privacy
- Low-maintenance and cold-hardy in zones 5-9
- Versatile for various landscaping styles
Cons:- Potential size variation and need for pruning
- Shipping restrictions to some regions
Best for: Gardeners seeking a low-maintenance, formal hedge with quick coverage and year-round greenery.
Not ideal for: Casual gardeners or those wanting flowering accents, as boxwoods lack vibrant blooms.
- Quantity:6 plants
- Plant Type:Evergreen shrub
- Variety:Buxus sempervirens ‘Highlander’
- Size:3.5-inch cubes
- Height:6–7 ft
- USDA Zones:5–9
Our verdict“This pick suits those wanting a structured, evergreen privacy hedge with minimal fuss and reliable growth.”
Dwarf Red Burning Bush Live Plant, 2.5 Inch Pot
The Dwarf Red Burning Bush adds vibrant red foliage in fall, making it a colorful accent or hedge in suitable zones. Compared with the Thuja Green Giant, which offers height and rapid privacy, this shrub emphasizes seasonal color, with a mature height of 4 to 8 feet, suitable for smaller yards or border plantings. Its hardy nature in zones 4-8 and full sun preference make it versatile for colder regions, though it can’t ship to some northern states, limiting availability. Its tall potential can be a drawback for compact spaces, but for those with room, it provides a stunning fall display. The main tradeoff is its seasonal color—bustling in autumn but less lively the rest of the year.
Pros:- Vibrant red fall foliage adds seasonal drama
- Hardy across zones 4-8
- Suitable for hedges, borders, or privacy screens
Cons:- Height may be too tall for small yards
- Limited shipping to northern states
Best for: Homeowners looking for a hardy, colorful shrub that offers seasonal vibrancy and landscape versatility.
Not ideal for: Small yards or those preferring evergreen interest year-round, as the red foliage is seasonal.
- 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“Perfect for those wanting seasonal color and hardy performance, especially in cooler regions.”
Perfect Plants Thuja Green Giant 3 Gallon – Live Evergreen Tree for Landscaping & Privacy
The Thuja Green Giant is a standout for fast-growing privacy in large landscapes, reaching up to 40 feet tall and 20 feet wide. Compared with the Encore Azalea, which stays smaller and offers seasonal interest, the Green Giant provides a towering, evergreen screen with minimal upkeep once established. Its deer-resistance and adaptability to zones 5-9 make it a favorite for large properties needing quick, durable privacy. However, it requires regular watering and mulching during its initial years, and it cannot ship to California or Arizona. While it offers years of low maintenance after planting, its size and growth rate mean it’s best suited for expansive yards rather than small gardens.
Pros:- Rapid growth rate of about 3 feet per year
- Provides quick, tall privacy screening
- Deer-resistant and adaptable to zones 5-9
Cons:- Cannot be shipped to CA or AZ
- Requires consistent watering and mulching in early years
Best for: Property owners needing a fast, tall privacy solution for large landscapes or commercial properties.
Not ideal for: Small yard owners seeking a manageable shrub, as it can grow excessively tall and wide beyond typical residential needs.
- 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 tree is ideal for large-scale privacy needs where rapid growth and minimal ongoing maintenance are priorities.”
Lynwood Gold Forsythia Bush – Yellow Flowering Shrub – Live Plant, 1-2 Feet Tall
This Forsythia Bush stands out for its vibrant yellow flowers that herald spring, making it an excellent choice for adding immediate brightness to a garden. Compared to the evergreen options like Wax Myrtle, it offers seasonal appeal rather than year-round privacy, but its deciduous nature means it will be leafless in winter. Its shipped bare root form ensures healthy transplanting, yet the plant’s size can vary upon arrival, and it requires ground planting only. This shrub is perfect for gardeners seeking a quick splash of color after winter, but those wanting year-round greenery might look elsewhere.
Pros:- Ready to plant upon arrival with clear instructions
- Thrives across a wide range of zones (5-9)
- Shipped bare root, ensuring healthy transplanting
Cons:- Deciduous, so it will be leafless in winter
- Limited to ground planting, not suitable for containers
Best for: Gardeners who want a reliable, seasonal flowering shrub to kick off spring with bright yellow blooms.
Not ideal for: Those seeking a shrub for year-round privacy or container planting, as Forsythia is deciduous and only suitable for ground planting.
- Type:Forsythia Bush
- Color:Yellow
- Size:1-2 feet tall
- Planting Zone:5-9
- Plant Type:Deciduous shrub
Our verdict“This shrub is ideal for those seeking a quick, colorful spring display and are comfortable with seasonal leaf loss.”
Brighter Blooms Thuja Green Giant Arborvitae, 2-3 ft
This Thuja Green Giant excels at creating instant privacy, growing at a rapid rate of 3-5 feet annually once established. It outpaces many other evergreen options like the Neatball Boxwood, which offers a more compact, slow-growing profile. While its quick growth is a major advantage, the limited shipping zones and size options may restrict some buyers. Its low-maintenance nature means no pruning is needed, making it perfect for those seeking a fuss-free landscape upgrade. However, the potential shipping restrictions and limited size choices could be drawbacks for some.
Pros:- Fast-growing, providing quick privacy
- Low-maintenance with no pruning required
- Creates a lush, uniform landscape
Cons:- Cannot be shipped to AK, AZ, HI, OR
- Limited size options available
Best for: Homeowners wanting quick, dense privacy hedges with minimal upkeep.
Not ideal for: Buyers in restricted shipping zones or seeking small, ornamental shrubs for containers.
- Height:2-3 ft
- Growth Rate:3-5 ft per year
- Shipping Restrictions:No to AK, AZ, HI, OR
Our verdict“This pick makes the most sense for those prioritizing rapid privacy screening with minimal gardening effort.”
Wax Myrtle | 20 Live Plants | Myrica Cerifera | Fast Growing Shrub, Privacy Screen, Evergreen Foliage, Drought Tolerant, Low Maintenance
The Wax Myrtle offers aromatic evergreen foliage that provides privacy throughout the year, making it a versatile choice compared to the deciduous Forsythia. Its fast growth and drought tolerance make it suitable for low-water gardens, but regular pruning may be necessary to maintain a desired shape, and in some regions, it can become invasive if left unchecked. This shrub is ideal for gardeners seeking low-maintenance, evergreen screening, especially in drier climates, though it may require some management to prevent overgrowth.
Pros:- Evergreen foliage provides year-round privacy
- Fast-growing and drought-tolerant
- Low maintenance for most landscapes
Cons:- May require regular pruning to control shape
- Potential invasiveness in some regions
Best for: Landscapers needing a fast, evergreen privacy hedge that tolerates drought conditions.
Not ideal for: Gardeners in regions where the plant could become invasive or those preferring a more ornamental, non-aromatic shrub.
- Plant Type:Live Plants
- Quantity:20
- Growth Rate:Fast
- Features:Evergreen, Drought tolerant
Our verdict“This shrub is perfect for low-maintenance, drought-prone landscapes needing year-round screening.”
Proven Winners 1 Gal. Neatball Boxwood Shrub
The Neatball Boxwood is a compact, tidy evergreen that maintains its shape with minimal effort, making it ideal for formal gardens or front yard borders. Compared to the taller Nellie Stevens Holly, it offers a smaller, more controlled size, perfect for smaller spaces. Its low water needs and hardy nature across zones 5-9 reduce maintenance, but the limited mature size information and requirement for full sun may limit its use in shadier or larger planting areas. This shrub excels in creating neat, defined landscapes but isn’t suitable if a large, dramatic statement is desired.
Pros:- Exceptional hardiness across zones 5-9
- Low maintenance with little watering needed
- Year-round evergreen with seasonal interest
Cons:- Limited info on mature size beyond 36 inches
- Requires full sun, limiting shaded garden options
Best for: Gardeners needing a low-maintenance, compact evergreen for borders or foundation planting.
Not ideal for: Those looking for a large, fast-growing hedge or plants for shaded areas.
- USDA Hardiness Zone:5-9
- Mature Size:24-36 in. W x 24-36 in. H
- Sunlight:Full sun to partial shade
- Water Needs:Little to no watering
- Color:Green
- Expected Plant Height:36 inches
Our verdict“This shrub is a smart choice for gardeners wanting a neat, evergreen shape with minimal upkeep in sunny spots.”
Nellie Stevens Holly 1 Gal. Pot | Fast Growing Privacy Evergreen
The Nellie Stevens Holly is a dense, fast-growing evergreen perfect for creating tall privacy screens or hedges, with its glossy green foliage and bright red berries adding seasonal interest. It surpasses the Neatball Boxwood in height potential, reaching up to 25 feet when mature. Its rapid growth makes it suitable for quick privacy, but it requires regular watering, pruning, and fertilization to keep it manageable in smaller spaces. Ideal for gardeners wanting a tall, lush hedge, though it may be overkill for those with limited space or seeking a smaller ornamental shrub.
Pros:- Fast-growing and dense, ideal for privacy
- Evergreen foliage provides continuous coverage
- Produces attractive white flowers and red berries
Cons:- Requires regular watering and maintenance
- Can grow very tall, needing pruning for smaller spaces
Best for: Homeowners seeking a fast, tall privacy hedge with year-round greenery and seasonal berries.
Not ideal for: Gardeners with small yards or those who prefer low-maintenance, slow-growing plants.
- Size:1 Gallon Pot
- Growth Habit:Dense, fast-growing
- Height:Up to 25 ft
- Width:Up to 15 ft
- Foliage:Glossy green
- Flowers:White in spring
Our verdict“This shrub is best suited for those who need rapid, tall privacy screens and are prepared for ongoing maintenance.”
Brighter Blooms Emerald Green Arborvitae, 1-2 Feet – Live Plant
The Emerald Green Arborvitae stands out for its effortless growth and adaptability, making it ideal for creating quick privacy screens with minimal effort. Unlike larger or more complex shrubs like the Wintergreen Boxwood, this plant requires very little pruning, which is perfect for busy gardeners seeking reliable coverage. Its ability to thrive in various soil types and weather conditions means it can be installed in diverse landscapes without fuss. However, its limited height—only 1-2 feet—means it’s less suited for those needing taller hedges or screening solutions. Compared to the Southern Living Nandina, it offers a more uniform, evergreen appearance but lacks seasonal color. This pick is best for homeowners looking for a low-maintenance, quick-growing hedge that requires minimal pruning.
Pros:- Easy to grow and maintain with minimal pruning
- Provides effective privacy screening
- Adapts well to different soil and weather conditions
Cons:- Limited to 1-2 feet in height, restricting use for taller screens
- Cannot be shipped to AK, AZ, HI, OR, limiting accessibility
Best for: Gardeners wanting a fast-growing, low-input privacy hedge in a variety of climates
Not ideal for: Those seeking tall, mature screens or highly formal landscaping, as it won’t grow beyond a couple of feet quickly
- Height:1-2 Feet
- Type:Live Plant
- Plant Category:Evergreen Shrub
Our verdict“This shrub is perfect for quick, low-effort privacy solutions in smaller landscapes or for gardeners prioritizing easy care.”
Southern Living 2 Gal. Obsession Nandina Shrub
The Obsession Nandina makes this list for its vibrant foliage that provides color throughout all seasons, outshining the more uniform look of the Brighter Blooms Arborvitae. Its adaptability to USDA zones 6-10 and tolerance for sun to part shade make it suitable for a broad range of garden settings. Although it requires regular watering until established—more maintenance than the Arborvitae—it rewards owners with striking, colorful leaves that can brighten borders, containers, or foundation plantings. Compared with the Wintergreen Boxwood, it offers more visual interest and seasonal variation, but may need winter protection in colder zones. Its relatively moderate size and low maintenance make it ideal for gardeners wanting year-round appeal without intensive care.
Pros:- Beautiful leaf color year-round
- Suitable for a wide range of USDA zones
- Low maintenance once established
Cons:- Requires regular watering until established
- Limited information on mature size, which can affect planning
- May need winter protection in colder zones
Best for: Homeowners seeking colorful, low-maintenance shrubs that thrive in various light conditions and provide seasonal interest
Not ideal for: Gardeners in zones colder than 6 or those who prefer plants with minimal watering needs, as it needs regular watering until established
- Plant Type:Nandina Shrub
- Size:2 Gallons
- Zones:6-10
- Light Requirements:Sun to part shade
- Watering:Twice per week until established
Our verdict“This shrub is ideal for gardeners wanting vibrant, colorful foliage with low overall maintenance in suitable zones.”
It’s Not Dead Yet mitogrow Tree & Shrub Plant Support
Compared with planting shrubs like the Wintergreen Boxwood without support, mitogrow offers a way to accelerate establishment and root development. Its blend of nutrients and beneficial microbes reduces transplant shock, which can be a limiting factor for quick growth. This makes it especially useful when planting new shrubs or stressed plants, helping them settle faster and grow more vigorously. However, its effectiveness depends on proper application and it often requires multiple treatments, which could be inconvenient for busy gardeners. While it doesn’t replace good planting practices, it complements them by improving root health and overall resilience. This supplement makes the most sense for those who want to give their shrubs a strong start or recover plants after stress.
Pros:- Promotes faster establishment and root growth
- Reduces transplant shock and stress
- Supports plant health year-round
Cons:- May require multiple applications for best results
- Effectiveness depends on correct application
Best for: Gardeners planting new or stressed shrubs who want faster establishment and healthier growth
Not ideal for: Those seeking immediate visual impact or mature plants, since it works best as a growth booster during early stages
- Active Ingredient:2.50% Indole-3-Butyric Acid
- Additional Components:B vitamins, Bacillus bacteria, fungi
- Application:Tree and shrub support, transplant stress reduction
Our verdict“This supplement is a solid choice for those wanting to boost early growth and recovery of newly planted or stressed shrubs.”
Wintergreen Boxwood, Live Plant, 3-Gallon Container, Evergreen Shrub
The Wintergreen Boxwood earns its spot for dense, evergreen foliage and classic appeal, making it a go-to for formal borders and hedges. Its mature size of 3-4 feet tall and wide provides a substantial presence, unlike the smaller Emerald Green Arborvitae. This shrub’s glossy, dark green leaves stay vibrant throughout winter, offering consistent visual interest. It thrives in full or partial sun, provided the soil drains well, which can be a limiting factor in poorly drained sites. While it offers excellent cold hardiness, its need for well-draining soil means it’s not suitable for wet or clay-heavy grounds. Its formal appearance and reliable evergreen cover make it ideal for those seeking a classic, year-round hedge, but less so for casual or very shaded gardens.
Pros:- Year-round visual interest with evergreen foliage
- Versatile for hedges, borders, or standalone accents
- Cold hardy and adaptable to various conditions
Cons:- Requires full or partial sun for optimal growth
- Needs well-draining soil to prevent root rot
Best for: Gardeners wanting a dense, evergreen hedge with a formal look and cold tolerance
Not ideal for: Lands with poorly draining soil or gardeners seeking rapid growth, as boxwoods grow more slowly and need proper drainage
- 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
Our verdict“This shrub suits those seeking a reliable, formal evergreen hedge with excellent cold tolerance and year-round color.”
How We Picked
We evaluated each shrub based on growth rate, overall health, ease of maintenance, and suitability for different landscape needs. Our focus was on selecting species that reliably grow quickly without excessive upkeep or invasiveness. We also considered the versatility of each shrub—whether it can serve as a privacy screen, foundation plant, or ornamental feature. Factors like climate adaptability and customer reviews helped us rank these options, ensuring they meet common buyer priorities for fast, healthy growth with manageable care requirements.Factors to Consider When Choosing Best Fast-growing Shrubs
Choosing the best fast-growing shrub involves considering several key factors beyond just the speed of growth. Understanding your landscape’s climate, soil conditions, and intended use can influence which shrub will thrive. Additionally, considering maintenance needs and potential invasiveness helps prevent future issues. This guide breaks down the main considerations to help you select a shrub that meets your needs and fits your gardening style.Growth Rate and Maturity Size
While speed is the primary reason for selecting a fast-growing shrub, it’s equally important to consider how large it will become at maturity. Some species may grow quickly but also require frequent pruning to stay manageable. Others might reach your desired height in a short time and then require less upkeep. Balancing growth rate with ultimate size helps prevent surprises and ensures your landscape remains harmonious over time.
Climate and Soil Compatibility
Not all shrubs perform well in every climate or soil type. Choosing a shrub suited to your local conditions reduces the risk of disease, poor growth, or early decline. For example, drought-tolerant options like Wax Myrtle excel in dry, sandy soils, while moisture-loving plants like Viburnum need well-drained but consistently moist soil. Matching your shrub choice to your environment ensures faster establishment and healthier growth.
Maintenance and Pruning Needs
Some fast-growing shrubs require regular pruning to maintain shape and prevent overgrowth, which can be time-consuming. Others, like certain hollies or junipers, have more natural growth habits and need less intervention. Considering your willingness and ability to prune regularly will influence the best choice—more demanding species might be better for experienced gardeners, while low-maintenance options suit beginners.
Invasiveness and Local Regulations
Fast-growing shrubs can sometimes become invasive, spreading beyond your yard and disrupting local ecosystems. It’s important to research whether your chosen species is considered invasive in your area. Some regions have restrictions or guidelines on planting certain fast-growing plants to prevent ecological issues. Selecting non-invasive varieties or native species helps you avoid legal or environmental complications.
Long-term Landscape Goals
Think about how the shrub fits into your overall landscape plan. Are you planting for privacy, quick color, or erosion control? Some shrubs, like the Green Giant or Thuja, excel for privacy screens, while flowering species bring seasonal bursts of color. Clarifying your goals helps prioritize features like growth speed, aesthetic appeal, and maintenance level, ensuring your investment aligns with your vision.
Frequently Asked Questions
How fast can I expect these shrubs to reach maturity?
Most of the shrubs listed can reach a significant size within 2 to 3 years under optimal conditions. For example, the Green Giant Arborvitae often grows 3-4 feet annually, making it a reliable fast grower. However, actual growth depends on factors like soil quality, water availability, and climate. Regular fertilization and proper care can help maximize growth rates, but patience is necessary for full maturity.
Are fast-growing shrubs suitable for small gardens?
Fast-growing shrubs can be suitable for small gardens if you choose varieties with manageable mature sizes or plan for regular pruning. For example, dwarf varieties of Forsythia or Boxwood can provide quick impact without overwhelming limited space. It’s essential to consider the mature height and spread to avoid future overcrowding. Proper planning ensures your garden stays balanced and accessible.
Do these shrubs require special soil or fertilizer?
The soil and fertilizer needs vary among species. Most evergreen shrubs like Thuja and Green Giant thrive in well-drained, slightly acidic soil and benefit from annual fertilization. Flowering shrubs such as Forsythia prefer slightly richer soil to promote vibrant blooms. Understanding your soil type helps tailor the care routine, supporting healthy, rapid growth from the start.
Can I plant these shrubs in containers?
Many fast-growing shrubs can be grown in containers, especially smaller or dwarf varieties. Container planting allows greater control over soil and watering but may limit growth rate and mature size. Regular fertilization and repotting are necessary to sustain healthy growth. Choose container-friendly varieties and ensure proper drainage to prevent root rot.
Are there any fast-growing shrubs I should avoid for certain climates?
Yes, some shrubs are less suitable for cold or very dry climates. For instance, Viburnum or Nandina may struggle in harsh winter conditions, while drought-tolerant species like Wax Myrtle perform poorly without adequate water in very cold regions. Always check regional hardiness zones and climate compatibility before planting to ensure your shrubs thrive and grow quickly.
Conclusion
For those seeking rapid privacy and a quick landscape impact, the Evergreen Green Giant stands out as the best overall choice thanks to its vigorous growth and ease of care. Gardeners prioritizing value should consider the Proven Winners Neatball Boxwood for its compact size and affordability. Beginners will find the Forsythia Bush easy to maintain and flowering early, making it ideal for new gardeners. Those with specific needs, like drought tolerance or ornamental appeal, should evaluate options like Wax Myrtle or Nandina, depending on their climate and aesthetic goals. Matching your landscape objectives with the right shrub ensures satisfying, long-term results.
