10 Evergreen Privacy Shrubs for Creating Year-round Privacy

Want a private yard but worried it'll take ages and cost a ton? No worries! There are some evergreen privacy shrubs that grow super fast and are very budget-friendly.

We're excited to help you find the perfect shrubs for quick and easy privacy. Stick with us, and we'll show you how to turn your yard into a private escape without spending a fortune. Let's dive in and get your yard looking awesome!

What Criteria Did We Use to Recommend the Following 10 Privacy Trees?

When we picked out these 10 trees, we had a few pretty straight-forward things in mind.

First, we chose shrubs that grow super quick – because, hey, who wants to wait forever for a bit of privacy, right? We also know life's busy, so we picked trees that are easy-peasy to maintain.

The list we landed on has all sorts of shapes and sizes too, perfect for any kind of yard. Plus, these aren't just any shrubs – they're total lookers all year round. Trust us, they're not just practical, they're gonna make your yard the envy of the neighborhood!

Let’s jump in!

1. Arborvitae (Thuja)

Arborvitae is like the MVP for yards when it comes to privacy. They grow tall and slim, which is perfect for squeezing into narrow spots. And believe us, these evergreens shoot up fast and fill in thick, giving you a cool green wall all year round.

You can think of them as nature's own privacy fence, and way cooler than just a regular old fence. Not to mention, they're super easy to take care of and tough enough for different weather. If you want privacy quickly and without a fuss, Arborvitae's your best bet.

How fast does Arborvitae grow?

Arborvitae trees are pretty speedy growers – they can shoot up about 1 to 3 feet per year. That's why they're our top pick for setting up privacy hedges or screens in no time.

But the exact speed they grow at can vary, it all depends on what type of Arborvitae you have and where you plant them. Things like the soil quality, how much water they get, and how sunny it is play a big part in how fast they'll grow.

• USDA Hardiness Zones: 2-7
• Light: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil Needs: Moist, well-drained
• Mature Size: Up to 60 feet tall, varies in width
• Deer Resistant: Yes

2. Boxwood (Buxus)

Boxwoods are super versatile and have a classic look that so many homeowners just love. Their leaves are thick and lush, you can trim them into neat shapes or just let them do their thing for a more laid-back vibe.

They’re really great for privacy and for making your home look just a bit fancy. Boxwoods are tough little guys – they do well in all sorts of light. So, if you want something green all year round, boxwoods are a solid pick.

How fast does Boxwood grow?

Boxwood does not grow super fast. It's more of a slow and steady kind of shrub, growing about 6 inches to a foot each year. How fast it grows can change based on stuff like what kind of Boxwood it is, where it's planted, and how much TLC you give it. Its slower growth rate is actually why many people love it for fancier landscape designs.

• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5-9
• Light: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil Needs: Well-drained
• Mature Size: 1 to 20 feet tall, 2 to 8 feet wide
• Deer Resistant: Moderately

3. Holly (Ilex)

Holly is like the cool kid of privacy plants with its shiny leaves and those eye-catching berries. But they are not just about privacy; Holly can make your yard look pretty amazing too.

If you're into getting both a good-looking yard and some privacy, Holly's should be your go-to. Holly is super flexible – whether you're all about neat, tidy hedges or you like things a bit more natural looking, Holly fits right in.

How fast does Holly grow?

When it comes to growth rate, Holly is kind of like the middle kid – not too fast, not too slow. Different kinds of Holly grow at their own pace, but on average, they sprout up about 12 to 24 inches each year.

How fast your Holly grows can change a lot depending on things like which Holly you've got, the kind of soil, how much water it gets, and the sun it soaks up. Some Holly plants might grow a bit slower or quicker than this.

• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5-9
• Light: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil Needs: Well-drained, slightly acidic
• Mature Size: Varies by species
• Deer Resistant: Yes

4. Leyland Cypress (Cupressocyparis leylandii)

Need privacy, like, yesterday? Then check out Leyland Cypress. It's a super-fast-growing evergreen that's perfect for a quick privacy fix.

If you have a big yard or need to block out noise and wind, this tree is your choice. Its also great because it’s thick leaves mean you get a privacy screen that's solid all year long. Pretty cool, right?

How fast does Leyland Cypress grow?

Leyland Cypress is like the speedster of the hedge world. It grows super fast, about 2 to 3 feet a year, which is why it's a go-to for quick privacy shrubs.

Need to block out some nosy neighbors fast? Leyland Cypress has you covered. But remember, how fast it grows can change depending on stuff like the weather, the kind of soil you have, and how much love you give it.

• USDA Hardiness Zones: 6-10
• Light: Full sun
• Soil Needs: Well-drained, fertile
• Mature Size: Up to 70 feet tall, 15 feet wide
• Deer Resistant: No

5. Yew (Taxus)

Yew trees are really popular for creating privacy hedges, thanks to their flexible growing style and sleek look. You can trim them up fancy or just let them go and grow out naturally.

The best part? Yews are like that easy-going friend who's cool with whatever – they're happy in different light levels and soil types. So, no matter your yard situation, yews are a solid, no-fuss choice for many homeowners.

How fast does Yew grow?

Yew trees aren't in a rush to grow. They usually add about 6 to 12 inches each year. This slower pace means they're not too tough to shape and care for. That's why a lot of folks pick Yew for fancy hedges and cool topiary designs in fancier gardens.

But keep in mind, not all Yew trees grow at the same speed. It really depends on which Yew you've got and where it's planted.

• USDA Hardiness Zones: 4-7
• Light: Full sun to shade
• Soil Needs: Well-drained
• Mature Size: Up to 60 feet tall, varies in width
• Deer Resistant: Yes

6. Laurel (Prunus laurocerasus)

Laurels are superstars when it comes to growing fast and making a solid privacy screen. Their shiny, thick leaves aren't just great for keeping things private; they also make your yard look pretty fancy.

Perfect for big hedges, laurels aren’t picky about where they grow. They're happy in many types of soils, making them a top pick for all sorts of backyards.

How fast does Laurel grow?

Laurel is pretty speedy when it comes to growing. It's faster than a lot of other privacy shrubs, growing about 1 to 2 feet every year. That's why it's such a solid pick if you want to get some privacy in no time.

• USDA Hardiness Zones: 6-9
• Light: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil Needs: Moist, well-drained
• Mature Size: 10 to 20 feet tall and wide
• Deer Resistant: No

7. Photinia (Photinia x fraseri)

Photinia really grabs your attention with its super bright red new leaves – it's like a splash of paint in your yard! It grows thick and full, so you get a solid privacy wall that's also easy on the eyes.

Taking care of Photinias isn't a big deal either, and with that cool red color they rock can be the star of your garden’s show. They’re like having a natural piece of art right in your frontyard.

How fast does Photinias grow?

Photinia is know as a fast grower in the plant world. It usually grows about 1 to 2 feet per year. That's why it's a favorite for folks who want to get a hedge or a colorful plant screen going pretty quickly.

• USDA Hardiness Zones: 7-9
• Light: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil Needs: Well-drained
• Mature Size: Up to 15 feet tall and wide
• Deer Resistant: No

8. Pine (Pinus spp.)

Pine trees are perfect for big yards where you want a tall, impressive privacy wall. They are the giants of the tree world, creating a strong barrier, and their green needles keep your space private all year long.

Pines are tough cookies too – they're really good at handling different weather and growing conditions. If you've got the space, pines are a great choice for a solid and good-looking privacy screen that lasts through all the seasons.

How fast do Pine trees grow?

Pine trees really vary quite a lot when it comes to how fast they grow. Some of them are sprinters, shooting up more than 2 feet a year.

But then, there are others that take their sweet time growing. It really depends on which Pine tree we're talking about. Factors like the soil they're in, how much water they get, and the weather can make a big difference too.

For example, the Eastern White Pine zips up pretty quick (usually 2 to 3 feet per year - under optimal conditions it can sometimes grow even faster), while the Scots Pine is more of a slow-grower (typically 1 foot per year).

• USDA Hardiness Zones: Varies by species
• Light: Full sun
• Soil Needs: Well-drained
• Mature Size: Varies greatly by species
• Deer Resistant: Varies by species

9. Juniper (Juniperus)

Junipers are pretty amazing because they come in so many shapes and sizes, perfect for whatever kind of garden or space you've got. They're super easy to maintain, which is great if you're not into a lot of trimming and pruning.

They're not just about privacy though – they look really great too. Do you need something tall to block the view or maybe something short and neat? Chances are there's a Juniper out there that's just right for what you need.

How fast does Juniper grow?

Junipers are another tree that are kind of all over the place with how fast they grow. It really depends on the type of Juniper. Some are pretty slow, only growing a few inches each year.

For example - one of the fastest-growing Juniper species is the Skyrocket Juniper. It can grow at a rate of about 1 to 2 feet per year. On the other hand, the Creeping Juniper is among the slower growing Junipers - typically only growing a few inches per year.

• USDA Hardiness Zones: 3-9
• Light: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil Needs: Well-drained
• Mature Size: 1 to 130 feet tall, 1 to 25 feet wide
• Deer Resistant: Yes

10. Spruce (Picea)

Spruce trees are pretty majestic with their cool cone shape and thick greenery. They're awesome for big privacy screens and really make a statement in your yard.

Not to mention they are super tough – they live a long time and can handle rough weather like champs of the cold. So not only do they give you some solid privacy, but they also make your outdoor space look really great too.

How fast do Spruce trees grow?

Spruce trees do not all grow at the same speed – it depends on the type. Most of them have a pretty average growth rate, gaining about 12 to 24 inches each year.

Some, like the Norway Spruce, are kind of the speedsters of the Spruce family, growing 1 to 2 feet per year.

• USDA Hardiness Zones: 2-8
• Light: Full sun
• Soil Needs: Well-drained
• Mature Size: 50 to 150 feet tall, varies in width
• Deer Resistant: No

5 Things to Consider to Pick the Right Privacy Trees For You

Sunlight and Shade

Think about how much sun your yard gets. Some trees love lots of sunshine, while others want more shade.

For example, if your yard is sunny most of the day Leyland Cypress would be a happy choice. But, if it's more shady, a Yew might be better. It's all about matching the tree to your yard's sun situation.

Soil Type and Drainage

Your soil's not just dirt. Some trees need soil that drains water well so their roots don't get too wet. For instance, Boxwoods don't like 'wet feet' and prefer well-drained soil.

So, before you plant get to know your soil. Is it sandy, heavy with clay, or somewhere in between? This info will help you pick the right tree.

Mature Size and Growth Rate

These trees won't stay small forever. Consider how big they'll get and how fast they'll grow.

For example, the Arborvitae can shoot up pretty quickly and get tall, so make sure you have enough room for it to grow. You wouldn't want it to outgrow your space and feel cramped.

Maintenance Requirements

Some trees need more pruning and attention than others. If you're not into a lot of yard work, choose a low-maintenance tree.

Junipers for example are pretty easy and don't need much fussing over. But if you're up for a bit of yard work, you might enjoy shaping and caring for a Holly.

Local Climate and Hardiness Zones

Trees are like people; they prefer certain climates. A tree that loves the California sun might not be too happy in the chilly Northeast.

Be sure to check your area's USDA Hardiness Zone and pick a tree that likes your local weather. Spruces for example are great for colder regions, but might not be the best choice for a warm, southern yard.

You Have Questions, We Have Answers

“Don’t trees take forever to grow for privacy?”

No, not really. For example, Leyland Cypress trees grow super fast. You'll start to see your privacy screen filling in way sooner than you'd think.

“Isn't planting trees for privacy expensive?”

It's actually more affordable than you might guess. Young trees like Photinia are pretty budget-friendly. You don't have to break the bank to start your green fence.

“Will I have to spend a lot of time taking care of these trees?”

Not at all. Once they're settled in many of these trees, like Junipers, are pretty low-maintenance. They won't need your constant attention.

“Do these trees only look good in the summer?”

Nope. Evergreens like Arborvitae stay green and lush all year round. So even in winter, your yard will still look great.

“Are these trees only for people with big yards?”

Actually, they can fit in smaller spaces too. Take Boxwood for example – you can trim it to fit almost any yard even a small urban yard. So no worries about size.

Summing it All Up

We hope this guide helps you pick out the perfect privacy trees for your yard. Remember - getting the privacy you want with these trees is totally doable and it doesn't have to be a hassle or super pricey.

If you have more questions or just want to chat about which tree might be best for your home, we're here for you. Don't hesitate to reach out – we love talking about this stuff and we're super excited to help you create your own private, green paradise.