When selecting the best fast-growing shrubs for your landscape, speed of growth, adaptability, and maintenance requirements are key considerations. The Nellie Stevens Holly stands out as the top overall pick for quick privacy and evergreen coverage. For those seeking vibrant color, the Lynwood Gold Forsythia offers rapid growth combined with bright yellow blooms. However, the main tradeoffs in this category often involve balancing fast growth with eventual size control and disease resistance. Keep reading for a detailed breakdown of the best options and how they compare to meet different gardening needs.
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Key Takeaways
- The fastest-growing shrubs tend to require regular pruning to maintain desired size and shape.
- Evergreen options like Holly and Thuja provide year-round privacy, but may be more costly initially.
- Deciduous shrubs like Forsythia and Viburnum often grow quickly and bloom spectacularly each season.
- Soil type and climate compatibility are critical; some fast growers thrive only in specific conditions.
- Balance between rapid growth and long-term maintenance is essential; some shrubs grow fast but become invasive or overgrown if not managed.
| Nellie Stevens Holly 1 Gal. Pot | Fast Growing Privacy Evergreen |  | Best for Dense Privacy Screening and Year-Round Cover | Size: 1 gallon pot | Growth Habit: Dense, pyramidal | Height: Up to 25 ft | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Perfect Plants Thuja Green Giant 3 Gallon Live Evergreen Tree for Landscaping & Privacy |  | Best for Rapid Vertical Growth and Large-Scale Privacy | Growth Rate: 3 feet per year | Mature Size: 40 ft tall, 20 ft wide | Hardiness Zones: 5-9 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Podocarpus Japanese Yew – 10 Live Plants, Evergreen Shrub for Landscaping |  | Best for Versatile, Low-Maintenance Landscaping and Moderate Growth | Type: Evergreen shrub | Growth Rate: Slow to moderate | Light Requirements: Full sun to partial shade | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Dwarf Red Burning Bush Live Plant, 2.5 Inch Pot |  | Best for Seasonal Color and Hardy Small-Scale Hedges | Size: 2.5 inch pot | USDA Zones: 4-8 | Features: Vibrant red fall foliage | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Proven Winners 1 Gal. Neatball Boxwood Shrub |  | Best for Tidy, Low-Maintenance Evergreen Hedges | USDA Hardiness Zone: 5-9 | Expected Plant Height: 36 inches | Water Needs: Little to no watering | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Viburnum Odoratissimum | 3 Live Plants | Fast Growing Evergreen Shrub with Fragrant White Flowers |  | Best Overall for Versatile Privacy and Low Maintenance | Type: Shrub | Number of Plants: 3 | Foliage: Evergreen | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Colorful Willow Bush Cuttings Kit – 15 Live Cuttings for Planting |  | Best for Colorful, Customizable Landscaping and Easy Rooting | Number of Cuttings: 15 | Varieties Included: Blackskin Willow, Purple Continental Willow, Blue Bark Willow | Plant Type: Live cuttings | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Wax Myrtle | 20 Live Plants | Myrica Cerifera | Fast Growing Shrub, Privacy Screen, Evergreen Foliage |  | Best for Aromatic, Year-Round Privacy with Low Maintenance | Plant Type: Live Plants | Quantity: 20 | Scientific Name: Myrica Cerifera | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Southern Living 2 Gal. Obsession Nandina Shrub |  | Best for Colorful, Low-Maintenance All-Season Foliage | Size: 2 Gallons | Plant Type: Nandina Shrub | USDA Zones: 6-10 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| 6 Highlander Boxwood – Fast-Growing Evergreen Shrubs for Privacy Hedges and Borders |  | Best for Formal Hedges and Classic Landscapes | Quantity: 6 plants | Plant Type: Boxwood (Buxus sempervirens ‘Highlander’) | Size: 3.5-inch cubes | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Lynwood Gold Forsythia Bush – Yellow Flowering Shrub – Live Plant, 1-2 Feet Tall |  | Best for Immediate Color and Bright Garden Accents | Plant Type: Deciduous shrub | Height: 1-2 feet | Color: Yellow | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Encore Azalea 1 Gal. Autumn Majesty Azalea Shrub |  | Best for Evergreen Color with Low Maintenance | USDA Zones: 6a-9b | Mature Height: 42 inches | Mature Width: 36 inches | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Proven Winners 2 Gal. Double Play Doozie Spirea Shrub |  | Best for Versatile Landscaping and Easy Care | USDA zones: 3-8 | Mature size: 24-36 inches W x 24-36 inches H | Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Perfect Plants Sweet Viburnum Shrub 3 Gallon |  | Best for Instant Privacy and Fragrant Blooms | Size: 3 Gallon | Growth Rate: Fast | Blooming Season: Spring | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| fast-growing shrub | Growth Rate |
|---|---|
| Nellie Stevens Holly 1 Gal. Po | — |
| Perfect Plants Thuja Green Gia | 3 feet per year |
| Podocarpus Japanese Yew | Slow to moderate |
| Dwarf Red Burning Bush Live Pl | — |
| Proven Winners 1 Gal. Neatball | — |
| Viburnum Odoratissimum | 3 Liv | Fast |
| Colorful Willow Bush Cuttings | Fast-growing |
| Wax Myrtle | 20 Live Plants | | Fast Growing |
| Southern Living 2 Gal. Obsessi | — |
| 6 Highlander Boxwood | Fast-growing |
| Lynwood Gold Forsythia Bush | — |
| Encore Azalea 1 Gal. Autumn Ma | — |
| Proven Winners 2 Gal. Double P | — |
| Perfect Plants Sweet Viburnum | Fast |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Nellie Stevens Holly 1 Gal. Pot | Fast Growing Privacy Evergreen
The Nellie Stevens Holly stands out for its dense, pyramidal growth habit and vibrant year-round foliage, making it ideal for creating quick privacy screens. Compared to the Perfect Plants Thuja Green Giant, it offers a more compact and easy-to-prune option for homeowners seeking a hedge that offers both privacy and ornamental appeal. While the Holly’s rapid growth provides immediate coverage, it can grow quite tall—up to 25 feet—and requires regular pruning to maintain shape and prevent overgrowth. Its glossy green leaves and bright red berries add seasonal visual interest, but the berries may attract birds, which could be a consideration for some. Overall, this shrub is best suited for those wanting a low-maintenance, evergreen privacy barrier that also provides seasonal color, though it may need occasional watering during establishment.
Pros:- Fast-growing and dense for quick privacy coverage
- Evergreen foliage offers year-round screening
- Low maintenance and easy to prune
Cons:- Can grow up to 25 feet tall, requiring regular pruning
- May need supplemental watering during early establishment
- Berries can attract birds, possibly leading to mess or seed dispersal
Best for: Homeowners seeking a fast, dense evergreen for privacy screens with minimal ongoing maintenance
Not ideal for: Gardeners with limited space or those preferring low-height hedges, as it can grow quite tall without pruning
- Size:1 gallon pot
- Growth Habit:Dense, pyramidal
- 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
- Usage:Privacy hedge, landscape accent
Our verdict“This shrub is perfect for those wanting quick privacy with minimal fuss, but be prepared for regular pruning and height management.”
Perfect Plants Thuja Green Giant 3 Gallon Live Evergreen Tree for Landscaping & Privacy
The Thuja Green Giant excels with its impressive growth rate, adding up to 3 feet per year, making it a top choice for quick privacy screens on larger properties. Compared to the Nellie Stevens Holly, it offers a more vertical, coniferous form, reaching heights of 40 feet with a broad spread of 20 feet, ideal for creating a tall, dense barrier. Its adaptability to zones 5-9 and drought tolerance make it a durable, low-maintenance option. However, its size means it requires significant space and regular early maintenance such as watering and mulching, especially in the first year. Not available in certain states like California and Arizona, which could limit accessibility. This shrub makes sense for property owners seeking rapid, large-scale screening with minimal ongoing care, provided they have the room to accommodate its mature size.
Pros:- Fast-growing with up to 3 feet per year
- Provides excellent, tall privacy screening
- Drought-tolerant and low-maintenance once established
- Deer-resistant
Cons:- Requires significant space for mature size
- Cannot be shipped to CA or AZ
- Needs regular watering and mulching in the first year
Best for: Landscapers or homeowners with large spaces needing fast-growing, tall privacy screens
Not ideal for: Small gardens or urban yards with limited space, due to its large mature dimensions
- Growth Rate:3 feet per year
- Mature Size:40 ft tall, 20 ft wide
- Hardiness Zones:5-9
- Soil:Well-drained
- Watering:Regular in first year
- Usage:Privacy screening, landscaping
Our verdict“This tree is ideal for large-scale privacy needs where rapid growth and minimal maintenance are priorities, but space and shipping limitations matter.”
Podocarpus Japanese Yew – 10 Live Plants, Evergreen Shrub for Landscaping
The Podocarpus Japanese Yew offers a flexible option for gardeners who prefer a slower, more controlled growth pattern. Its dark green foliage provides year-round interest, and it adapts well to full sun or partial shade, making it suitable for various landscape styles. Compared with the Neatball Boxwood, it grows at a slower to moderate pace, which is better for those wanting a manageable hedge without frequent trimming. As a low-maintenance shrub tolerant of drought and diverse soil types, it’s ideal for busy gardeners or those seeking a more natural look. The main tradeoff is its slower growth rate, which means it won’t create privacy as quickly as faster-growing options. This pick is best for those prioritizing longevity, aesthetic flexibility, and lower upkeep over immediate privacy or height.
Pros:- Versatile for various landscaping needs
- Lush, year-round foliage
- Low-maintenance and drought tolerant
- Adapts to full sun or partial shade
Cons:- Growth rate is slow to moderate
- Requires well-drained soil for best growth
Best for: Gardeners seeking a versatile, low-maintenance evergreen for ornamental or moderate privacy needs
Not ideal for: Those needing rapid privacy or quick hedges, as it grows slowly and takes time to fill in
- Type:Evergreen shrub
- Growth Rate:Slow to moderate
- Light Requirements:Full sun to partial shade
- Foliage:Dark green
- Maintenance:Low
- Tolerance:Drought tolerant
- Uses:Hedges, privacy screens, ornamentals
Our verdict“Perfect for gardeners valuing longevity and flexible landscaping, though patience is needed for privacy and height goals.”
Dwarf Red Burning Bush Live Plant, 2.5 Inch Pot
The Dwarf Red Burning Bush provides vibrant red foliage in the fall, bringing striking seasonal color to small gardens or borders. Its compact size makes it suitable for smaller spaces, and it thrives in USDA zones 4-8, showing remarkable hardiness. Compared to larger shrubs like the Nellie Stevens Holly, this dwarf form is more manageable for limited areas and ideal for adding a splash of color without overgrowth. Its full sun requirement and well-drained soil make it straightforward to care for, though it may reach 4-8 feet, so space planning is essential. This shrub makes the most sense for those wanting seasonal impact or a small hedge, but it won’t offer year-round privacy or dense screening.
Pros:- Vibrant red fall foliage provides seasonal color
- Hardy across zones 4-8
- Versatile for hedges, borders, or accents
Cons:- Growth height may reach 4-8 feet, requiring space
- Limited year-round screening capability
Best for: Gardeners looking to add vibrant fall color and manageable height in small or border gardens
Not ideal for: Those needing permanent privacy or rapid height growth, as it is more ornamental than screening
- Size:2.5 inch pot
- USDA Zones:4-8
- Features:Vibrant red fall foliage
- Growth Habit:Full sun, well-drained soil
Our verdict“Ideal for adding seasonal color in small spaces, but not suited for year-round privacy or quick screening.”
Proven Winners 1 Gal. Neatball Boxwood Shrub
The Neatball Boxwood provides a compact, uniform shape, making it a favorite for formal hedges or neat borders. Its dense, dark green foliage stays tidy year-round, requiring little maintenance—perfect for busy gardeners. Compared to the Nellie Stevens Holly, it offers a smaller mature size, staying around 36 inches, which suits smaller gardens or front yard plantings. It’s hardy across zones 5-9 and tolerates full sun to partial shade, making it adaptable to various conditions. The main limitation is the lack of detailed information on its mature spread and specific soil needs, which may require some guessing for optimal growth. Still, this shrub is best for those who want a reliable, low-effort evergreen that maintains a neat appearance without growing too tall or wide.
Pros:- Exceptional hardiness across zones 5-9
- Low maintenance and easy care
- Year-round evergreen foliage with a tidy shape
- Compact size ideal for small spaces
Cons:- Limited info on ultimate mature size beyond 36 inches
- Requires full sun to partial shade
- No detailed soil or watering specifications
Best for: Gardeners wanting a tidy, low-maintenance evergreen for front gardens or formal borders
Not ideal for: Those seeking quick privacy or large-scale screening, as it remains relatively small and compact
- USDA Hardiness Zone:5-9
- Expected Plant Height:36 inches
- Water Needs:Little to no watering
- Weight:6 pounds
- Color:Green
- Foliage:Dark green
- Item Weight:6 pounds
- Unit Count:1
Our verdict“Best suited for gardeners wanting a reliable, tidy evergreen for small or formal planting areas, with minimal upkeep required.”
Viburnum Odoratissimum | 3 Live Plants | Fast Growing Evergreen Shrub with Fragrant White Flowers
This Viburnum Odoratissimum stands out for its rapid, dense growth, making it ideal for quickly establishing privacy screens or standalone features. Compared to the Highlander Boxwood, it offers a more natural, less formal look, but it may require regular pruning to maintain its shape as it grows. Its fragrant white flowers attract pollinators, adding ecological value, while its drought tolerance simplifies care in dry conditions. However, growth rates can vary based on soil quality and climate, so results might differ in less ideal environments. This shrub’s low-maintenance nature makes it suitable for busy gardeners seeking immediate privacy solutions without constant upkeep.
Pros:- Fast-growing and dense for immediate privacy
- Fragrant white flowers attract pollinators
- Low-maintenance and drought-tolerant
Cons:- May require pruning to keep shape tidy
- Growth rate varies with soil and climate
Best for: Homeowners wanting quick privacy hedges with minimal fuss, especially in drought-prone areas
Not ideal for: Gardeners seeking highly controlled, formal landscapes or those in very poor soil conditions
- Type:Shrub
- Number of Plants:3
- Foliage:Evergreen
- Flower Color:White
- Blooming Season:Spring
- Growth Rate:Fast
- Maintenance:Low
- Drought Tolerance:Yes
Our verdict“This shrub is best for those needing rapid, low-effort privacy with ecological benefits.”
Colorful Willow Bush Cuttings Kit – 15 Live Cuttings for Planting
This kit offers a vibrant mix of willow cuttings, including Blackskin, Purple Continental, and Blue Bark varieties, making it perfect for adding year-round color and interest. Unlike the more structured Viburnum, these cuttings provide a flexible, dynamic appearance that can be shaped as they grow. They root easily and establish quickly, but since they are shipped dormant, they may initially appear as simple stems without leaves, which can be less appealing for immediate decorative impact. Their rapid growth and dense habit make them excellent for privacy screening, though they require consistently moist soil and can take 2-4 weeks to sprout. This pick is ideal for gardeners eager for fast, colorful coverage with minimal fuss.
Pros:- Vibrant multi-color branches add year-round visual interest
- Easy to root, suitable for all experience levels
- Fast establishment and dense growth
Cons:- Shipped dormant, may look plain initially
- Requires moist soil for best results
- Sprouting can take a few weeks
Best for: Gardeners looking to create a colorful, fast-growing privacy screen or decorative feature with minimal effort
Not ideal for: Those seeking immediate visual impact or who have dry soil conditions, as these cuttings thrive in moist soil
- Number of Cuttings:15
- Varieties Included:Blackskin Willow, Purple Continental Willow, Blue Bark Willow
- Plant Type:Live cuttings
- Growth Rate:Fast-growing
- Soil Preference:Moist or periodically wet soils
- Shipping Stage:Dormant
Our verdict“This kit delivers quick, colorful growth perfect for gardeners seeking fast, customizable landscaping accents.”
Wax Myrtle | 20 Live Plants | Myrica Cerifera | Fast Growing Shrub, Privacy Screen, Evergreen Foliage
The Wax Myrtle provides aromatic, evergreen foliage that offers privacy and ornamental appeal throughout the year. Compared to the Highlander Boxwood’s formal look, Wax Myrtle has a more natural, bushy appearance that adapts well to various landscape styles. Its fast growth and drought tolerance make it a reliable choice for low-maintenance gardens, though it does need sufficient space to reach full size. While it’s versatile and easy to care for, in some regions, Wax Myrtle can behave invasively if not managed properly. This shrub suits those wanting a fragrant, evergreen privacy barrier with minimal ongoing effort.
Pros:- Aromatic evergreen foliage provides year-round beauty
- Fast-growing and versatile for many landscapes
- Low-maintenance and drought-tolerant
Cons:- May require space to reach full size
- Potential invasiveness in some regions
Best for: Landscapers and homeowners seeking a fragrant, fast-growing privacy hedge in suitable climates
Not ideal for: Gardening in regions where invasive species are a concern or with limited space for full growth
- Plant Type:Live Plants
- Quantity:20
- Scientific Name:Myrica Cerifera
- Growth Rate:Fast Growing
- Features:Evergreen Foliage, Drought Tolerant
- Uses:Privacy Screen, Ornamental
Our verdict“Ideal for those wanting a fragrant, evergreen privacy screen that requires minimal care and adapts well to diverse landscapes.”
Southern Living 2 Gal. Obsession Nandina Shrub
The Nandina ‘Obsession’ offers striking foliage color throughout all seasons, making it a focal point in any landscape. Unlike the more utilitarian Wax Myrtle or Highlander Boxwood, it shines with vivid red and purple tones, adding visual interest year-round. It’s well-suited for gardeners in USDA zones 6-10 who prefer a shrub that is easy to care for and requires minimal watering after establishment. However, its growth is modest compared to the fast-growing options like the Viburnum or Willow kit, and it may need regular pruning to maintain its shape. This shrub excels for those wanting vibrant color with low effort, especially in smaller gardens or mixed borders.
Pros:- Vivid, colorful foliage year-round
- Low maintenance and easy to grow
- Suitable for a wide range of USDA zones
Cons:- Slower growth compared to other options
- Requires regular watering until established
Best for: Gardeners seeking colorful foliage with minimal care in moderate climates
Not ideal for: Those wanting rapid privacy or screening, as it grows more slowly than some alternatives
- Size:2 Gallons
- Plant Type:Nandina Shrub
- USDA Zones:6-10
- Watering:Twice per week until established, then once per week
Our verdict“This shrub is perfect for adding vibrant, low-maintenance color to gardens that don’t need immediate privacy.”
6 Highlander Boxwood – Fast-Growing Evergreen Shrubs for Privacy Hedges and Borders
Compared with the more natural-looking Viburnum or Wax Myrtle, the Highlander Boxwood offers a more controlled, formal appearance suitable for structured landscapes. Growing 6-7 feet tall with dense, glossy foliage, it creates a nearly instant privacy barrier, especially for those who value a neat, evergreen hedge. Its rapid growth rate is a plus, but natural variations in size and appearance may mean not every plant will match perfectly, and it requires periodic pruning to maintain a clean look. Limited shipping regions could also restrict availability for some buyers. This pick makes sense for homeowners aiming for a polished, traditional hedge with minimal effort.
Pros:- Fast-growing and easy to maintain
- Evergreen foliage maintains year-round privacy
- Ideal for creating structured borders and hedges
Cons:- Natural size and appearance variations
- Limited shipping to certain regions
Best for: Homeowners wanting a quick, formal privacy hedge that looks tidy with minimal ongoing maintenance
Not ideal for: Gardeners seeking a more natural or wild landscape style or those in restricted shipping zones
- Quantity:6 plants
- Plant Type:Boxwood (Buxus sempervirens ‘Highlander’)
- Size:3.5-inch cubes
- Height:6-7 ft
- Width:2-3 ft
- USDA Zones:5–9
- Growth Rate:Fast-growing
- Care:Full sun to partial shade, regular watering, occasional pruning
Our verdict“This hedge is suited for those desiring a quick, tidy, evergreen privacy solution with minimal fuss.”
Lynwood Gold Forsythia Bush – Yellow Flowering Shrub – Live Plant, 1-2 Feet Tall
This Forsythia stands out for its vibrant yellow flowers that instantly brighten any landscape, making it a prime choice for gardeners seeking quick visual impact. Compared to the Perfect Plants Sweet Viburnum, which offers evergreen foliage and fragrant blooms, the Forsythia’s seasonal display is more immediate, though it lacks winter interest. Its bare root shipping in California can be a concern for less experienced planters, demanding extra care during transplanting. While its deciduous nature means no winter leaves, its adaptability to zones 5-9 broadens its appeal for temperate gardens. This shrub is ideal for those wanting a dependable, fast-growing flowering shrub that fills space quickly. However, it requires proper watering and planting to ensure healthy growth, especially in dry conditions.
Pros:- Bright, vibrant yellow flowers provide immediate garden impact
- Shipped as a healthy, ready-to-plant live shrub
- Suitable for a wide range of zones (5-9)
Cons:- Deciduous leaves mean no winter interest
- Requires careful planting and watering for success
- California orders shipped bare root, needing extra care
Best for: Gardeners in zones 5-9 seeking an eye-catching, flowering shrub with quick results and easy planting.
Not ideal for: Urban gardeners with limited space or those in areas where bare root planting is challenging, due to extra transplant care needed.
- Plant Type:Deciduous shrub
- Height:1-2 feet
- Color:Yellow
- Zones:5-9
- Shipping Method:Bare root (California only)
- Transport:Double boxed
Our verdict“This Forsythia is perfect for those wanting instant color and a reliable, fast-growing flowering shrub in temperate zones.”
Encore Azalea 1 Gal. Autumn Majesty Azalea Shrub
This azalea excels for gardeners who desire year-round greenery combined with seasonal bursts of color, making it more suitable for those prioritizing evergreen interest over the seasonal bloom of Forsythia. Compared to the Double Play Doozie Spirea, which is deciduous and offers quick summer flowering, the Encore Azalea provides persistent foliage and requires less seasonal attention. Its low maintenance needs and adaptability to zones 6a-9b make it a flexible option for suburban landscapes. However, its need for full sun to partial shade limits placement options, and it’s not ideal for colder or shaded areas. This shrub is best for those who want a lush, maintenance-light shrub with reliable winter greenery and colorful spring blooms.
Pros:- Evergreen foliage offers year-round visual interest
- Low maintenance and easy to care for
- Suitable across a broad range of USDA zones
Cons:- Requires full sun to partial shade for best growth
- Limited to USDA zones 6a-9b, not cold-hardy in lower zones
Best for: Homeowners in USDA zones 6a-9b seeking evergreen structure with seasonal flowering and minimal upkeep.
Not ideal for: Gardeners in colder zones below 6a or shaded locations that won’t provide the full to partial sun needed for optimal growth.
- USDA Zones:6a-9b
- Mature Height:42 inches
- Mature Width:36 inches
- Sunlight:Full sun to partial shade
- Evergreen:Yes
Our verdict“This azalea makes the most sense for gardeners wanting reliable evergreen interest combined with seasonal floral displays with minimal fuss.”
Proven Winners 2 Gal. Double Play Doozie Spirea Shrub
This spirea is a versatile choice that balances size, ease of growth, and decorative appeal, making it suitable for both containers and landscape beds. It differs from the Encore Azalea by being deciduous and offering a more compact, manageable size, ideal for smaller spaces or mixed borders. Its wide USDA zone range (3-8) makes it adaptable across diverse climates, but its deciduous nature means it won’t provide winter foliage. The 24-inch spacing requirement is an important consideration for full, lush coverage. This shrub is well-suited for gardeners seeking low-maintenance, fast-growing plants that can serve as foundation plants or colorful accents. However, its deciduous habit and spacing needs are tradeoffs for its reliable growth and versatility.
Pros:- Low maintenance and easy to grow
- Versatile for containers and landscape beds
- Thrives across a broad USDA zone range (3-8)
Cons:- Deciduous foliage means no winter greenery
- Requires 24-inch spacing for optimal fullness
Best for: Landscape designers or homeowners looking for a low-maintenance, adaptable shrub for borders, containers, or accents in zones 3-8.
Not ideal for: Those seeking evergreen privacy screens or winter interest, as it loses foliage in colder months and needs spacing considerations.
- USDA zones:3-8
- Mature size:24-36 inches W x 24-36 inches H
- Sunlight:Full sun to partial shade
- Deciduous:Yes
- Spacing:24 inches
Our verdict“This spirea is ideal for gardeners wanting a reliable, fast-growing shrub that adapts well and requires minimal care, with the caveat of winter leaf loss.”
Perfect Plants Sweet Viburnum Shrub 3 Gallon
This viburnum offers rapid growth and evergreen foliage, making it an excellent choice for creating privacy screens or hedges quickly. It differs from the Double Play Doozie by being evergreen, providing year-round cover, whereas the spirea is deciduous. Its fast growth rate means you get quick screening, but the large 3-gallon size requires significant space and regular maintenance to manage its size. Suitable primarily for USDA zones 8-10, it performs best in warmer climates, unlike some of the more cold-hardy options. Its fragrant spring blooms attract pollinators, adding ecological value. This shrub is best for those prioritizing immediate privacy with minimal winter cleanup, but it demands space and supplemental watering in drought conditions.
Pros:- Fast-growing, providing quick privacy
- Evergreen foliage stays green year-round
- Fragrant flowers attract pollinators in spring
Cons:- Suitable mainly for USDA zones 8-10, limiting colder area use
- Large size requires ample space and ongoing maintenance
- May need additional watering in drought conditions
Best for: Homeowners in USDA zones 8-10 seeking rapid privacy with evergreen foliage and fragrant spring flowers.
Not ideal for: Gardeners in colder zones or with limited space, due to its size and heat/drought tolerance requirements.
- Size:3 Gallon
- Growth Rate:Fast
- Blooming Season:Spring
- Features:Heat & drought tolerant, evergreen leaves, fragrant flowers
Our verdict“This viburnum is perfect for those wanting rapid, evergreen privacy in warmer climates with minimal winter cleanup, but space and water considerations are key.”
How We Picked
Our evaluation focused on growth rate, overall health, adaptability to different climates, ease of maintenance, and visual appeal over time. We compared these shrubs based on their documented growth speeds, longevity, and resistance to pests and diseases. The ranking prioritizes plants that deliver quick results with manageable upkeep, making them suitable for various garden sizes and styles. We also considered user reviews and expert horticultural insights to identify the most reliable and versatile options for different buyers.Factors to Consider When Choosing Best Fast-growing Shrubs
Choosing the right fast-growing shrub depends on several factors that influence both immediate results and long-term care. Understanding these considerations can help you avoid common pitfalls, such as selecting a plant unsuitable for your climate or expecting rapid growth without ongoing maintenance. The following factors will guide you through what to look for when selecting a shrub that meets your landscape goals while fitting your gardening experience and resources.Growth Rate and Size Expectations
While these shrubs are categorized as fast-growing, actual growth speed varies by species and environment. It’s important to set realistic expectations based on your climate and soil conditions. Some plants, like Forsythia or Viburnum, can grow several feet per year but may require pruning to keep them manageable. Consider how large you want the shrub to be in the long run and whether you prefer a more controlled growth habit or a plant that fills in quickly without much intervention.
Climate Compatibility and Soil Conditions
Not all fast-growing shrubs thrive in every region. Check your USDA hardiness zone and soil type before purchasing. For instance, Thuja Green Giant performs well in a range of conditions, making it versatile for many landscapes, while Podocarpus prefers subtropical climates. Planting a shrub that isn’t suited to your environment can lead to poor growth, pest issues, or early decline, negating the benefit of rapid initial growth.
Maintenance and Pruning Needs
Fast growth often means increased maintenance. Some shrubs, like Holly or Boxwood, benefit from regular pruning to maintain shape and prevent overgrowth. Others, such as Nandina, are lower-maintenance but may not grow as rapidly as some deciduous options. Determine how much time you’re willing to dedicate to upkeep, and select a shrub whose growth habit aligns with your available care routine.
Long-term Invasiveness and Manageability
Some fast-growing plants can become invasive if left unchecked, spreading beyond intended borders. For example, certain Viburnum varieties or Burning Bush may self-seed aggressively. It’s wise to research the invasive potential of your chosen shrub and plan for containment strategies. Opting for cultivars or species known for restrained growth can save trouble down the line.
Aesthetic and Functional Goals
Consider what role the shrub will play in your landscape—privacy, color, structure, or erosion control. Some fast growers, like Sweet Viburnum or Forsythia, provide vibrant blooms, while others, such as Wax Myrtle or Podocarpus, offer dense evergreen coverage. Matching the shrub’s visual appeal and functional benefits to your garden’s design is key to achieving satisfying results and avoiding buyer’s remorse.
Frequently Asked Questions
How fast do these shrubs typically grow?
Most of the shrubs in this list can grow between 1 to 3 feet per year under optimal conditions. Factors like soil quality, watering, and climate significantly influence their growth rates. Deciduous varieties like Forsythia tend to grow rapidly each spring, while evergreen options such as Thuja Green Grown can fill in quickly over a few seasons, providing immediate privacy or screening.
Are fast-growing shrubs suitable for small gardens?
Fast-growing shrubs can be a good choice for small gardens if you select species with a manageable mature size or plan for regular pruning. For tiny spaces, dwarf varieties like Proven Winners Neatball Boxwood provide quick coverage without overwhelming. Keep in mind that rapid growth may require more maintenance, so consider your willingness to prune or shape the plants regularly.
Which shrubs are best for privacy screening?
Evergreen options such as Nellie Stevens Holly, Thuja Green Giant, and Wax Myrtle excel for privacy because they retain their foliage year-round. These plants grow quickly and form dense screens, but often come with higher initial costs and maintenance needs. Deciduous shrubs like Forsythia or Viburnum can also provide privacy temporarily during the growing season but won’t offer year-round coverage.
Can I plant multiple fast-growing shrubs for a hedge?
Yes, combining several fast-growing shrubs can create a lush, layered hedge. When doing so, ensure the species are compatible in terms of soil, sunlight, and water needs. Mixing deciduous and evergreen varieties can provide both seasonal interest and year-round privacy. Be aware that some plants may outpace others, so selecting species with similar growth rates helps maintain a balanced appearance.
What mistakes should I avoid when planting fast-growing shrubs?
One common mistake is planting too close to structures or other plants without considering future size, which can lead to overcrowding or damage. Overestimating growth speed without planning for pruning can result in overgrown, unmanageable plants. Also, ignoring local climate suitability may cause poor growth or disease. Proper site preparation and choosing appropriate species for your conditions help ensure your shrubs grow healthy and quickly as expected.
Conclusion
For most gardeners seeking quick results, the Nellie Stevens Holly offers reliable evergreen privacy, making it the best overall choice. If you want vibrant blooms and rapid height gain, Lynwood Gold Forsythia is ideal for beginners or those wanting seasonal color. Those prioritizing long-term value may prefer the Perfect Plants Thuja Green Giant for its durability and versatility. For small gardens or low-maintenance needs, dwarf varieties like Proven Winners Neatball Boxwood stand out. Ultimately, your choice depends on your specific landscape goals, climate, and willingness to maintain, but this guide points you toward the best options for any situation.
