Shrubs for Privacy

Boxwood

• The boxwood is a shrub that is often grown in southern states. While there are more than 160 registered cultivars of boxwoods, the common boxwood or Buxus sempervirens is most often used as a hedge or screen. The common boxwood reaches average heights of 5 to 10 feet but can grow larger. This boxwood is often grown as a small tree or shrub and is susceptible to root rot if planted in wet soils. Boxwoods are also susceptible to insect infestations of leaf miners, mites and boxwood psylla.

Evergreen Hollies

• Evergreen hollies make an excellent shrub for privacy because they grow rapidly and generally require little maintenance. The Japanese holly is a good choice for a shorter hedge because it is fast-growing, easy to prune and has lovely, dark green glossy leaves. For a taller hedge, the I. x aquipernyi or Dragon Lady is a common choice. Reaching 15 feet in height, this shrub only needs occasional pruning. Most evergreen hollies grow best in full sun, but some can thrive in partial shade.

Arborvitae

• Arborvitae is also known as white cedar and is often used as a hedge or a privacy screen. An evergreen with needles, arborvitae reaches heights of 30 to 40 feet and is a dense tree with widths of 10 to 15 feet. According to Iowa State University, arborvitae grows best in full sun and well-drained soil. Arborvitae needles are green in color throughout the summer months and turn yellow in the fall and winter.

Cypress

• Leyland cypress is a good choice for a privacy screen because it grows very tall, often growing as much as 4 feet each year. Reaching heights of 60 to 70 feet and widths of 15 feet, the Leyland cypress makes a good screen if several are planted together. Another cypress that is often used as a privacy screen is the Italian cypress. This is a slender tree that reaches heights of 60 feet at maturity and widths of 5 to 20 feet.