Choosing the best fast-growing shrubs can transform your landscape quickly, providing privacy, color, and structure in a short time. The Perfect Plants Thuja Green Giant stands out as the top overall pick for its rapid growth and dense foliage. For those seeking vibrant color, the Lynwood Gold Forsythia Bush offers stunning yellow blooms, while the Wax Myrtle provides drought tolerance and evergreen coverage. However, tradeoffs include maintenance needs, size considerations, and climate adaptability. Continue reading for a detailed breakdown to find the best fast-growing shrubs suited to your needs.
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Key Takeaways
- The fastest-growing options like Thuja Green Giant deliver quick privacy but may require space and regular pruning.
- Colorful shrubs such as Forsythia or Nandina add visual interest but may not reach full size immediately, requiring patience.
- Drought-tolerant choices like Wax Myrtle are ideal for low-maintenance landscapes but might be less dense initially.
- Evergreens like Boxwood or Holly offer year-round coverage but tend to grow slower than deciduous options.
- Size and spacing are critical; larger plants grow faster but need more room and can be costlier upfront.
| Perfect Plants Thuja Green Giant 3 Gallon – Live Evergreen Tree for Landscaping & Privacy |  | Best Overall for Fast Privacy Screening | 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 Seasonal Color and Versatile Use | Plant Type: Live Plant | Size: 2.5 Inch Pot | Mature Height: 4-8 Feet | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Proven Winners 1 Gal. Neatball Boxwood Shrub |  | Best for Year-Round Tidy Appearance and Low Maintenance | 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 |
| Wax Myrtle | 20 Live Plants | Myrica Cerifera | Fast Growing Shrub, Privacy Screen, Evergreen Foliage, Drought Tolerant, Low Maintenance |  | Best for Natural Privacy Screens and Drought Tolerance | Plant Type: Live Plants | Quantity: 20 | Species: Myrica Cerifera | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Brighter Blooms Thuja Green Giant Arborvitae, 2-3 ft |  | Best for Rapid Growth 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 |
| Encore Azalea 1 Gal. Autumn Majesty Azalea Shrub |  | Best Overall for Year-Round Interest | Size: 42 inches H x 36 inches W | Zone: 6a-9b | 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 Privacy Screens | Height: 1-2 Feet | Type: Live Plant | Plant Category: Evergreen Shrub | 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 | Height: Up to 25 ft | Width: Up to 15 ft | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Lynwood Gold Forsythia Bush – Yellow Flowering Shrub – Live Plant, 1-2 Feet Tall |  | Best for Spring Color and Easy Planting | Type: Deciduous shrub | Color: Yellow | Size: 1-2 feet tall | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| It’s Not Dead Yet mitogrow Tree & Shrub Plant Support |  | Best for Accelerating Growth and Recovery | Active Ingredient: 2.50% Indole-3-Butyric Acid | Additional Components: B vitamins, Bacillus bacteria, mycorrhizal fungi | Application: Tree and shrub support, transplant stress reduction | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Southern Living 2 Gal. Obsession Nandina Shrub |  | Best for Year-Round Color and Low Maintenance | Plant Type: Nandina Shrub | Size: 2 Gallons | Zones: 6-10 | 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 Fast Privacy and Evergreen Structure | Quantity: 6 plants | Plant Type: Evergreen shrub | Variety: Buxus sempervirens ‘Highlander’ | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Wintergreen Boxwood, Live Plant, 3-Gallon Container, Evergreen Shrub |  | Best for Classic Hedge and All-Season Green | 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 |
| Viburnum Odoratissimum | 3 Live Plants | Fast Growing Evergreen Shrub with Fragrant White Flowers |  | Best for Fragrant, Fast-Growing Privacy Screening | Type: Shrub | Quantity: 3 | Foliage: Evergreen | 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 best overall choice for those seeking a fast, reliable privacy barrier, thanks to its impressive growth rate of up to 3 feet per year and mature size reaching 40 feet tall. Compared to the Brighter Blooms Thuja Green Giant, which is smaller at 2-3 feet and better suited for initial screening, this option provides quick, full coverage that minimizes waiting time. Its deer resistance and adaptability to zones 5-9 make it versatile for many landscapes, though it does require regular watering and mulching in the first year to establish well. This tree’s low-maintenance nature and drought tolerance make it suitable for busy homeowners wanting a long-term privacy solution. The main tradeoff is shipping restrictions—it’s not available to CA or AZ, which could limit options for some buyers.
Pros:- Rapid growth rate of up to 3 feet per year ensures quick privacy
- Deer-resistant and adaptable to multiple zones
- Low-maintenance and drought-tolerant once established
Cons:- Cannot be shipped to CA or AZ, limiting regional availability
- Requires regular watering and mulching in the first year to thrive
Best for: Homeowners looking for an immediate, tall privacy screen with minimal ongoing maintenance.
Not ideal for: Gardeners in California or Arizona who cannot receive shipments to their regions or those needing a smaller, more manageable shrub.
- 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 pick is perfect for those wanting a tall, fast-growing evergreen privacy hedge with minimal fuss.”
Dwarf Red Burning Bush Live Plant, 2.5 Inch Pot
The Dwarf Red Burning Bush earns its spot for adding striking red fall foliage, making it an excellent choice for colorful accents or hedges in full sun. Unlike the Wax Myrtle, which offers evergreen privacy, this shrub provides a burst of seasonal color, ideal for landscapes that prioritize visual interest during autumn. It grows to 4-8 feet, suitable for medium-sized yards, but its full sun requirement and well-drained soil mean it might not perform well in shaded or poorly drained sites. Its vibrant red leaves can be overwhelming for small gardens or those seeking a more subdued look. While hardy across zones 4-8, the height may be too tall for compact spaces, and some regions like NY, NH, MA, and VT are excluded from shipping.
Pros:- Vivid red fall foliage provides dramatic seasonal color
- Suitable for hedges, borders, or privacy screening
- Hardy across USDA zones 4-8
Cons:- Requires full sun and well-drained soil to thrive
- Mature height may be too tall for small yards
Best for: Gardeners wanting seasonal color in sunny, well-drained locations with space for a 4-8 foot shrub.
Not ideal for: Small gardens or shaded areas where full sun and height might be problematic, or buyers in restricted delivery regions.
- Plant Type:Live Plant
- Size:2.5 Inch Pot
- Mature Height:4-8 Feet
- USDA Zones:4-8
Our verdict“Ideal for those seeking a colorful, fast-growing shrub with a seasonal punch, especially in sunny landscapes.”
Proven Winners 1 Gal. Neatball Boxwood Shrub
The Neatball Boxwood makes the cut for its consistent, compact shape that stays tidy all year, contrasting with the more natural, sprawling form of the Wax Myrtle. Its low-maintenance nature and minimal watering needs make it appealing for busy gardeners who prefer a formal look. However, its mature size is listed as 24-36 inches, which may not meet expectations for a hedge or privacy screen unless regularly pruned. It thrives in zones 5-9, but its preference for full sun to partial shade might limit placement options for shadier gardens. While it offers evergreen interest, its limited size and specific sun requirements mean it’s better suited for front garden borders or small hedges than large privacy screens.
Pros:- Maintains a compact, tidy shape year-round
- Low maintenance and easy to care for
- Evergreen foliage provides seasonal interest
Cons:- Limited mature size may restrict use as a privacy screen
- Requires full sun to partial shade, not suited for shaded gardens
Best for: Gardeners seeking a neat, evergreen shrub that maintains a tidy, formal shape with minimal upkeep.
Not ideal for: Those needing a taller privacy hedge or planting in shaded or low-light areas, as the shrub prefers full sun and limited size.
- 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
Our verdict“This shrub is best for gardeners prioritizing a low-maintenance, formal-looking evergreen for small spaces.”
Wax Myrtle | 20 Live Plants | Myrica Cerifera | Fast Growing Shrub, Privacy Screen, Evergreen Foliage, Drought Tolerant, Low Maintenance
The Wax Myrtle is a versatile, fast-growing evergreen that excels as a natural privacy screen, especially in drought-prone areas. Compared to the Neatball Boxwood, which offers a neat, formal appearance, the Wax Myrtle provides a more natural, lush look with aromatic foliage. Its rapid growth and drought tolerance make it ideal for low-maintenance landscapes, but it may require pruning to maintain shape, and in some regions, it risks becoming invasive if not properly managed. It’s perfect for large landscapes or informal hedges but less suitable for small, manicured gardens due to its potential size and natural growth habit.
Pros:- Evergreen foliage provides year-round privacy
- Fast-growing and drought tolerant
- Low maintenance and versatile for various landscapes
Cons:- May require regular pruning to maintain shape
- Potentially invasive if not managed properly
Best for: Landscapers or homeowners wanting a fast, natural privacy barrier with drought resistance and aromatic foliage.
Not ideal for: Small, formal gardens or regions where invasive behavior is a concern, or those seeking low-growth, tidy shrubs.
- Plant Type:Live Plants
- Quantity:20
- Species:Myrica Cerifera
- Growth Rate:Fast
- Features:Evergreen, Drought tolerant, Low maintenance
Our verdict“Ideal for large-scale privacy screens in drought-prone areas that tolerate a more natural, less formal look.”
Brighter Blooms Thuja Green Giant Arborvitae, 2-3 ft
The Brighter Blooms Thuja Green Giant offers a quick solution for creating privacy in a compact size, reaching 2-3 feet with a growth rate of 3-5 feet annually once established. Its rapid growth makes it an attractive option for those needing immediate results without waiting years for full-sized trees like the Perfect Plants Thuja Green Giant. The main limitation is shipping restrictions—it’s not available to AK, AZ, HI, or OR—and the listed size may be less than expected if buyers anticipate larger mature plants. Its low-maintenance profile, with no pruning needed, makes it suitable for quick landscape transformation, although the limited size options could be a drawback for those wanting larger mature plants immediately.
Pros:- Fast growth rate of 3-5 feet per year once established
- Low-maintenance with no pruning required
- Creates a lush, green privacy barrier quickly
Cons:- Limited size options and shipping restrictions
- Potential for shipping delays or restrictions in some states
Best for: Urban or small-space gardeners seeking fast privacy with manageable, small-sized plants.
Not ideal for: Those needing large, mature trees quickly or in regions where shipping restrictions apply.
- Height:2-3 ft
- Growth Rate:3-5 ft per year
- Shipping Restrictions:No to AK, AZ, HI, OR
Our verdict“Best suited for small spaces needing quick, dense greenery with minimal upkeep, provided shipping is available.”
Encore Azalea 1 Gal. Autumn Majesty Azalea Shrub
This evergreen azalea stands out for providing vibrant foliage and blooms across all seasons, making it a versatile choice for gardeners seeking continuous visual appeal. Compared with the Nellie Stevens Holly, it offers less height potential but excels in low-maintenance care and adaptability within USDA zones 6a-9b. Its requirement for full sun to partial shade means it performs best in partially shaded gardens, but it isn’t suited for areas with limited sunlight or colder zones outside 6a. Year-round visual interest and low maintenance are key advantages, yet its zone restrictions limit placement options for some buyers.
Pros:- Provides year-round visual interest with evergreen foliage and seasonal blooms
- Requires minimal maintenance once established
- Suitable for a variety of USDA zones, offering flexibility in planting locations
Cons:- Limited to USDA zones 6a-9b, restricting its geographic range
- Prefers full sun to partial shade, which may not suit shaded gardens
Best for: Gardeners in USDA zones 6a-9b wanting a shrub with continuous interest with minimal upkeep
Not ideal for: Regions outside USDA zones 6a-9b or gardens with heavy shade, where it may not thrive
- Size:42 inches H x 36 inches W
- Zone:6a-9b
- Sunlight:Full sun to partial shade
- Type:Evergreen
Our verdict“This shrub is ideal for those in compatible zones seeking a low-maintenance, evergreen plant with year-round appeal.”
Brighter Blooms Emerald Green Arborvitae, 1-2 Feet – Live Plant
This arborvitae is an excellent choice for creating compact privacy screens or hedges, especially for small spaces. Its manageable height of 1-2 feet makes it easier to incorporate into landscape designs without excessive pruning, unlike taller options such as Nellie Stevens Holly. It adapts well to a variety of soils and climates, but its limited growth height may be a drawback for those seeking a taller hedge. Easy to grow and maintain makes it suitable for beginners, but it’s not ideal for large-scale privacy needs or for planting in regions where shipping restrictions apply, like Alaska or Hawaii.
Pros:- Effortless to grow, requiring minimal pruning
- Provides effective, year-round privacy screening
- Adapts well across various soil types and climates
Cons:- Limited to a maximum height of 2 feet, unsuitable for tall privacy barriers
- Cannot be shipped to Alaska, Hawaii, Oregon, or Arizona
Best for: Homeowners wanting a low-maintenance, small evergreen for privacy or decorative borders
Not ideal for: Those seeking tall privacy hedges or planting in restricted states like Alaska and Hawaii
- Height:1-2 Feet
- Type:Live Plant
- Plant Category:Evergreen Shrub
Our verdict“This pick makes the most sense for gardeners with small spaces needing an easy-care evergreen hedge.”
Nellie Stevens Holly 1 Gal. Pot | Fast Growing Privacy Evergreen
Compared with the smaller arborvitae, the Nellie Stevens Holly offers rapid vertical growth, reaching up to 25 feet, making it ideal for creating tall privacy screens. Its glossy green foliage, complemented by white spring flowers and bright red fall berries, adds seasonal interest. While its fast growth is a clear advantage, it also means regular pruning is necessary to keep it within desired boundaries. It thrives in USDA zones 6-9 and requires minimal maintenance once established. However, its height potential and dense growth can be overwhelming for small gardens or those seeking a low-profile shrub.
Pros:- Fast-growing and dense, perfect for quick privacy
- Evergreen foliage offers year-round coverage
- Produces attractive flowers and berries for seasonal interest
Cons:- Requires regular pruning to maintain desired size
- Potentially overwhelming for small or landscaped gardens
Best for: Homeowners looking to establish quick, tall privacy hedges or ornamental screens
Not ideal for: Gardens with limited space or those preferring smaller, manageable shrubs
- 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
Our verdict“This shrub is best suited for those wanting rapid, tall privacy with minimal fuss once established.”
Lynwood Gold Forsythia Bush – Yellow Flowering Shrub – Live Plant, 1-2 Feet Tall
This deciduous shrub offers vibrant yellow blooms early in the season, making it a cheerful addition to any garden. Shipping at 1-2 feet tall, it’s ready for planting with clear instructions, ideal for gardeners looking for quick spring color. Unlike evergreen options such as the Nellie Stevens Holly, it loses leaves in winter, requiring seasonal planning. Its wide planting zone range (5-9) makes it adaptable, but it’s only suitable for ground planting, not containers. Its modest size upon arrival is perfect for small to medium gardens, yet it won’t provide privacy or structure year-round.
Pros:- Ships ready to plant with clear instructions
- Bright yellow flowers provide early-season color
- Thrives across a broad planting zone range
Cons:- Deciduous, offering no winter foliage or interest
- Limited to ground planting, not suitable for containers
Best for: Gardeners seeking early spring color and easy planting in zones 5-9
Not ideal for: Those wanting evergreen privacy or year-round structure in their gardens
- Type:Deciduous shrub
- Color:Yellow
- Size:1-2 feet tall
- Planting zone:5-9
Our verdict“This shrub is ideal for adding lively spring blooms, especially in zones 5-9, but it won’t provide privacy or winter greenery.”
It’s Not Dead Yet mitogrow Tree & Shrub Plant Support
This plant support supplement makes a practical addition for those planting or caring for fast-growing shrubs like Nellie Stevens Holly or Forsythia, especially when stress or transplant shock occurs. Unlike the other plants in this list, it doesn’t directly influence growth size but enhances root development and overall plant health, which can speed up establishment. It’s particularly useful for stressed or newly planted shrubs, outperforming simple watering by actively supporting nutrient uptake. However, its benefits depend heavily on correct application frequency and proper use, and it’s less effective as a standalone growth solution.
Pros:- Promotes faster root growth and establishment
- Reduces transplant shock and plant stress
- Supports plant health year-round
Cons:- May require multiple applications for optimal results
- Effectiveness depends on proper, consistent application
Best for: Gardeners transplanting or caring for stressed plants who want faster establishment and healthier roots
Not ideal for: Those seeking immediate height or size increase without planting stress, as it mainly supports root and overall plant health
- Active Ingredient:2.50% Indole-3-Butyric Acid
- Additional Components:B vitamins, Bacillus bacteria, mycorrhizal fungi
- Application:Tree and shrub support, transplant stress reduction
Our verdict“This supplement serves best as an aid for stressed or newly planted shrubs aiming for quicker recovery and stronger roots.”
Southern Living 2 Gal. Obsession Nandina Shrub
This Obsession Nandina earns its place for its striking, persistent foliage that remains vibrant across all seasons, making it ideal for gardeners seeking continuous visual interest. Compared with the Wintergreen Boxwood, it offers a more dynamic display but requires more regular watering during establishment, which could be a drawback for those with less time for maintenance. Its adaptability to USDA zones 6-10 and sun to part shade conditions broadens its appeal, especially for landscape designs that benefit from color variation. However, its need for consistent watering until mature and limited info on mature size mean it demands some attention early on. Best suited for homeowners prioritizing color and low fuss, this shrub is a reliable choice for adding year-round appeal with minimal ongoing effort.
Pros:- Beautiful leaf color remains vibrant year-round
- Suitable for a wide range of USDA zones 6-10
- Low-maintenance and easy to care for
Cons:- Requires regular watering until established
- Limited information on mature size
- May need protection in colder zones
Best for: Gardeners looking for colorful, low-maintenance shrub options that thrive across multiple seasons
Not ideal for: Drought-prone areas or owners seeking a shrub with minimal watering requirements over time
- 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 those wanting persistent color and easy upkeep in moderate climates.”
6 Highlander Boxwood – Fast-Growing Evergreen Shrub for Privacy Hedges, Screens & Borders (Buxus sempervirens ‘Highlander’) in 3.5″ Cubes, Live Plants
The Highlander Boxwood stands out for its dense, fast-growing foliage, making it a top choice for quick privacy screens compared to slower options like Proven Winners’ Neatball Boxwood. Its adaptability across USDA zones 5-9 means it handles cold snaps better than more tender varieties, and its low-maintenance nature appeals to busy landscapers. However, natural variation in size and appearance can make uniform hedging challenging unless regularly pruned, and it excludes shipping to some regions. This makes it ideal for those wanting rapid, evergreen coverage, but less so for those seeking perfectly uniform, low-pruning needs or shipping to remote locations. Best for homeowners eager for quick privacy with minimal fuss.
Pros:- Fast-growing and dense for quick privacy coverage
- Low-maintenance and cold-hardy
- Suitable for various landscaping uses
Cons:- Natural size and appearance variation
- Excludes some shipping regions
- Requires occasional pruning for shape
Best for: Homeowners needing immediate, dense evergreen screening for privacy or borders
Not ideal for: Gardeners expecting uniformity without pruning or living outside zones 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 rapid, dense evergreen coverage perfect for quick privacy needs in suitable zones.”
Wintergreen Boxwood, Live Plant, 3-Gallon Container, Evergreen Shrub
The Wintergreen Boxwood combines classic elegance with dependable evergreen foliage, making it suitable for formal hedges or accents. Its mature size of 3-4 feet offers a manageable shape compared to larger, more sprawling options. Its glossy, dark green leaves appeal for year-round landscaping, especially in colder climates, outperforming more tender varieties. Still, its optimal growth depends on full or partial sun and well-draining soil, requiring some planning for site conditions. While not the fastest grower, its steady, reliable growth makes it ideal for those prioritizing stability over rapid expansion. This shrub is best for gardeners wanting a traditional, durable evergreen with moderate growth.
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 best growth
- Needs well-draining soil to prevent root issues
Best for: Homeowners seeking a durable, classic evergreen for hedges or borders in moderate climates
Not ideal for: Areas with poor drainage or owners wanting rapid coverage
- 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 wanting a steady, traditional evergreen with reliable performance over time.”
Viburnum Odoratissimum | 3 Live Plants | Fast Growing Evergreen Shrub with Fragrant White Flowers
This Viburnum Odoratissimum makes a compelling choice for those desiring quick, dense privacy with a fragrant bonus. Its rapid growth rate outpaces many traditional evergreen shrubs like Highlander Boxwood, providing swift coverage. The fragrant white flowers attract pollinators, adding ecological value, and its low maintenance profile suits busy gardeners. However, its larger space requirements and potential seasonal flowering mean it’s less suitable for compact areas or those expecting year-round blooms without seasonal variation. It excels where quick screening and pollinator appeal are priorities, especially in climates that support its growth. Ideal for gardeners seeking fast, fragrant privacy with minimal upkeep.
Pros:- Fast-growing and dense for quick privacy
- 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 rapid, fragrant privacy screens or standalone features in suitable climates
Not ideal for: Small gardens or regions with limited space for full mature growth
- Type:Shrub
- Quantity:3
- Foliage:Evergreen
- Flowers:Fragrant White
- Growth Rate:Fast
- Maintenance:Low
Our verdict“This shrub provides rapid, fragrant screening ideal for those needing quick privacy in suitable regions.”
How We Picked
Our evaluation focused on growth rate, overall health and vigor, ease of maintenance, adaptability to different climates, and value for the price. We prioritized plants proven to reach maturity quickly without excessive care requirements, making them suitable for homeowners seeking rapid landscape transformation. Plants with robust root systems, disease resistance, and good adaptability scored higher. The ranking reflects a balance between speed, ease, and longevity, ensuring each option offers a meaningful advantage for different garden goals.Factors to Consider When Choosing Best Fast-growing Shrubs
When selecting fast-growing shrubs, understanding key factors will help you make an informed decision that balances speed, appearance, and maintenance. It’s important to consider your climate, available space, and purpose—whether for privacy, color, or structure. This guide highlights critical considerations to ensure your investment leads to a thriving, beautiful landscape with minimal surprises.Growth Rate and Size Expectations
While rapid growth is desirable, it’s essential to match your expectations with the shrub’s mature size. Some plants like Thuja Green Giant can shoot up several feet annually and quickly create privacy screens, but they need ample space. Others may take longer but offer more manageable size or a more delicate appearance. Be realistic about the size you need now versus what the shrub will be in five or ten years, to avoid overcrowding or the need for frequent pruning.
Climate and Soil Compatibility
Choosing shrubs adapted to your climate zone ensures healthier growth and less maintenance. Drought-tolerant options like Wax Myrtle thrive in dry, sandy soils, while others like Holly prefer more moisture and acidic soils. Avoid plants that are not suited to your area’s temperature extremes or soil conditions, as they may grow slowly or suffer from stress, counteracting the purpose of choosing fast-growing varieties.
Maintenance and Pruning Needs
Fast-growing shrubs often require regular trimming to maintain shape and health. Some, like Boxwood, can become dense and require shaping, while others like Forsythia grow wildly if left unchecked. Consider how much time you can dedicate to upkeep and select plants that align with your willingness to prune and care for them. Low-maintenance options tend to grow a little slower but can save you time in the long run.
Purpose and Aesthetic Goals
Identify whether your priority is privacy, color, structure, or a combination. Evergreen shrubs like Holly or Thuja provide year-round coverage, while flowering varieties like Forsythia or Viburnum add seasonal interest. Understanding your landscape goals helps narrow down options that will satisfy both speed and visual appeal, avoiding plants that may be too small or too large for your space.
Cost and Plant Size at Purchase
Generally, larger, more mature plants grow faster but come at a higher price point. Smaller or younger plants are more affordable but will take longer to reach your desired size. Balance your budget with your timeline: investing in larger specimens can give immediate impact but may limit your options if space or funds are constrained. Consider whether starting with smaller plants and patience aligns better with your landscape plans.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it typically take for fast-growing shrubs to reach full size?
The time for a shrub to reach its full size varies greatly depending on the species, starting size, and growing conditions. On average, fast-growing shrubs like Thuja Green Giant can grow several feet per year, reaching mature height within 3 to 5 years under optimal conditions. However, some smaller or slower varieties may take longer to fully establish. Proper care and suitable climate are essential to achieve these growth rates.
Can I plant fast-growing shrubs in a small yard without them becoming overgrown?
Yes, but it requires selecting the right species and managing their growth through pruning. Many fast growers can be kept within a manageable size if pruned regularly. For very limited space, consider dwarf or semi-dwarf varieties that still offer quick growth but stay smaller over time. Planning for eventual size and spacing upfront helps prevent overcrowding and keeps your landscape balanced.
Are there any fast-growing shrubs that are low-maintenance and drought-tolerant?
Indeed, shrubs like Wax Myrtle and Nellie Stevens Holly are known for their drought tolerance and low maintenance needs. These plants are well-suited for homeowners who want quick coverage with minimal care. Keep in mind that even drought-tolerant plants benefit from initial watering and proper soil preparation, and some pruning may be necessary to maintain shape and health.
What should I consider if I want a fast-growing shrub for a shaded area?
Not all fast-growing shrubs thrive in shade, so it’s important to choose species that tolerate lower light. For shaded spots, consider plants like certain holly varieties or Nandina, which can handle some degree of shade while still growing relatively quickly. Always check the specific light requirements and avoid species that prefer full sun to prevent poor growth or disease issues.
Is it better to buy larger, more mature plants or smaller ones for quick results?
Buying larger, more mature plants can give immediate visual impact and faster privacy, but they are usually more expensive and may have a higher risk of transplant shock. Smaller plants are more affordable, easier to transport, and establish better roots initially, but will take longer to reach your desired size. Your choice depends on your budget, timeline, and willingness to care for younger plants as they grow.
Conclusion
For most homeowners seeking rapid landscape enhancement, the Perfect Plants Thuja Green Giant offers unmatched speed and density, making it the best overall choice. Budget-conscious gardeners might prefer the Brighter Blooms Emerald Green Arborvitae for good growth at a lower price. Those new to gardening will benefit from the Encore Azalea or Nellie Stevens Holly, which are easier to manage and still grow quickly. If privacy is your main goal and you have space, a combination of larger plants like the Thuja Green Giant or Highlander Boxwood will deliver fast results with a classic look.
