When it comes to establishing privacy quickly, choosing the right plant can make all the difference. The Best Overall pick, the Thuja Green Giant Arborvitae, offers a reliable combination of rapid growth and dense coverage. For those seeking an affordable option, Leyland Cypress provides fast screening at a lower cost, while the Hybrid Willow Trees excel in quick shade and windbreaks. However, tradeoffs like maintenance needs, mature size, and climate adaptability vary widely. Keep reading for a detailed breakdown of these top choices and find the best fit for your privacy goals.
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Key Takeaways
- Evergreens like Thuja Green Giant and Leyland Cypress dominate for fast, year-round privacy due to their dense foliage.
- Willow trees grow quickly but require more space and maintenance, making them suitable for large properties with room to grow.
- Rooting ease varies; live cuttings like Green Wall Willow are budget-friendly but may take longer to establish.
- Plant size and maturity matter—larger containers or more mature trees deliver instant privacy but at higher costs.
- Climate compatibility influences success—cold-hardy options like Hybrid Willows are better suited for diverse regions.
| fast-growing privacy plant | Growth Rate | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| 6 Highlander Boxwood | — | — |
| Hybrid Willow Tree Cuttings | 8–12 feet per year | 10 Cuttings |
| Hybrid Willow Tree Plants for | 12 feet per year | — |
| 10 Thuja Green Giant Arborvita | — | 10 plants |
| Perfect Plants Thuja Green Gia | 3–5 ft/year | — |
| 20 Leyland Cypress Trees | 3-4 feet annually | 20 trees |
| Green Wall Willow Privacy Tree | Ultra fast | 10 cuttings |
| Leyland Cypress | 10 Live Plan | Fast Growing | 10 plants |
| Perfect Plants Thuja Green Gia | 3-5 feet per year | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
6 Highlander Boxwood – Fast-Growing Evergreen Shrubs for Privacy Hedges and Borders
This package of six Highlander Boxwood shrubs stands out for their dense, evergreen foliage that maintains privacy year-round, making them a reliable choice for landscape hedges. Compared with the Green Wall Willow Cuttings, these boxwoods offer a more traditional, formal appearance and require less frequent watering once established. While they grow quickly and are low-maintenance, they do need regular pruning to keep shape and size, and natural size variation may lead to uneven looks. Their suitability across USDA Zones 5–9 ensures broad adaptability, but shipping exclusions to some regions could limit accessibility.
Pros:- Evergreen, providing all-season privacy
- Arrives as healthy, ready-to-plant plants
- Suitable for hedges, borders, and screens
- Low-maintenance and cold-hardy
Cons:- Natural size variation may require trimming for uniformity
- Requires regular watering and pruning
- Shipping restrictions to some regions
Best for: Homeowners seeking a low-maintenance, evergreen hedge that provides consistent privacy in moderate climates.
Not ideal for: Gardeners in regions outside USDA Zones 5-9 or those preferring rapid height growth over a controlled, formal look.
- Number of Plants:6
- Plant Type:Boxwood (Buxus sempervirens ‘Highlander’)
- Size:3.5-inch cubes
- Height:6–7 ft
- Width:2–3 ft
- USDA Zones:5–9
Our verdict“This pick is best for gardeners wanting a reliable, low-maintenance evergreen hedge with year-round privacy in suitable zones.”
Hybrid Willow Tree Cuttings – Fast Growing Privacy & Shade Trees – Easy to Root Live Cuttings – Cold Hardy, High Yield Trees for Screens & Windbreak (10 Cuttings)
This set of hybrid willow cuttings makes an excellent choice for those who want quick height and coverage, with growth rates of 8–12 feet per year. Compared to the slower-growing Thuja Green Giant, these willows provide faster results, though they typically require more frequent watering and maintenance. Their ease of rooting and adaptability to different soils make them accessible for DIY planters, but their rapid growth can be a double-edged—pruning and spacing are necessary to prevent overgrowth. Suitable for a variety of climates, they excel in establishing a natural privacy barrier or windbreak in a short period.
Pros:- Extremely fast-growing, providing quick privacy
- Easy to root from cuttings with simple instructions
- Adaptable to various climates and soils
- High yield for quick screening
Cons:- Growth rate can vary with conditions
- Requires consistent watering during establishment
- Needs proper spacing and pruning
Best for: Landscapers or homeowners looking for fast, high-yield privacy and shade trees with minimal initial effort.
Not ideal for: Those with limited space or who prefer slow-growing, more controlled landscapes, since these can grow aggressively and need regular care.
- Quantity:10 Cuttings
- Growth Rate:8–12 feet per year
- Hardiness:Cold hardy
- Uses:Privacy screens, windbreaks, shade
Our verdict“Ideal for those who want rapid privacy screens with minimal initial fuss, but require ongoing care to manage growth.”
Hybrid Willow Tree Plants for Growing – Fast Privacy Hedge, Wind Block, Shade (10 Trees)
These hybrid willow trees grow at an impressive rate of 12 feet per year, making them perfect for quickly establishing tall privacy screens or windbreaks. Compared with the Highlander Boxwood, they provide immediate height but require more space and maintenance, especially pruning to control tall growth. Their ability to reach 50–75 feet makes them suitable for large yards, but the height can become unmanageable without regular trimming. Easy to plant from cuttings, they offer a straightforward solution for instant privacy, though their aggressive growth demands attentive care and watering.
Pros:- Extremely fast growth, up to 12 ft/year
- Easy to plant from cuttings
- Provides quick privacy, shade, and wind protection
- Low maintenance once established
Cons:- Requires regular watering and pruning
- Can grow very tall, needing space and management
- Growth rate depends heavily on conditions
Best for: Large property owners or landscapers needing rapid, tall screens and willing to invest in ongoing pruning.
Not ideal for: Small gardens or those preferring slow, manageable growth, since these trees can quickly become overwhelming and space-consuming.
- Growth Rate:12 feet per year
- Maximum Height:50–75 ft
- Number of Trees:10
- Planting Method:Cuttings
Our verdict“Great for large landscapes seeking rapid, tall privacy barriers but demanding consistent upkeep.”
10 Thuja Green Giant Arborvitae Trees – 6-12″ Tall Live Plants – 2.5″ Pots
This set of young Green Giant Arborvitae plants offers a modest starting height of 6–12 inches, making them suitable for those looking to establish a privacy hedge gradually. Compared to the fast-growing hybrid willows, these evergreens develop into a dense, tall screen over time, but initially require patience and space to grow into full maturity. Their low-maintenance nature and seasonal color change from dark green to bronze in winter make them appealing, though their limited initial height means they are better suited for those willing to wait for full coverage or with space for expansion.
Pros:- Easy to plant and care for
- Creates effective evergreen privacy over time
- Seasonal color variation adds visual interest
- Low-maintenance once established
Cons:- Limited height initially, requiring patience
- Needs space and time to reach full size
- Color change may not appeal to all
Best for: Homeowners wanting a manageable, evergreen privacy option starting from small plants and willing to wait for mature height.
Not ideal for: Those seeking immediate privacy or with limited patience, as these take years to reach full height and privacy potential.
- Quantity:10 plants
- Height:6-12 inches
- Pot Size:2.5 inches
- Type:Arborvitae
Our verdict“Best for those seeking a long-term, evergreen privacy hedge starting from small plants with patience for growth.”
Perfect Plants Thuja Green Giant Arborvitae, 1 Gal (5-Pack)
This 5-pack of mature 1-gallon Green Giant Arborvitae offers a quick start for homeowners wanting immediate privacy. Growing 3–5 feet annually, these trees quickly form a dense, evergreen barrier, surpassing the slower-growing boxwoods or smaller plants. Compared to the younger 6-12 inch plants, these provide quicker coverage but require more space and early pruning to manage their height. Once established, they are remarkably low-maintenance, with seasonal color and excellent resilience across zones 5–9. Their size makes them suitable for larger properties that can accommodate rapid growth.
Pros:- Fast-growing, providing quick privacy
- Dense, dark green foliage with a pleasant scent
- Low maintenance after establishment
- Suitable for a wide range of zones
Cons:- Large size may require significant space upfront
- Can grow very tall, demanding pruning
- Needs full sun for optimal growth
Best for: Landscapers or homeowners needing instant privacy in spacious yards, ready to handle larger mature trees.
Not ideal for: Small gardens or those preferring slow, manageable plants, since these grow quickly and need space from the start.
- Size:1 Gal (5-Pack)
- Growth Rate:3–5 ft/year
- Mature Height:Up to 60 ft
- Mature Width:Up to 20 ft
- Zones:5–9
Our verdict“Ideal for large properties seeking rapid, dense privacy screens with minimal ongoing effort after planting.”
20 Leyland Cypress Trees – 6-12 inches Tall Live Plants – Fast-Growing Privacy Screen Shrubs – Evergreen Hedges – Cupressus x leylandii (20 Pack)
This pack of 20 Leyland Cypress trees stands out for delivering rapid privacy with minimal effort, growing 3-4 feet annually and creating a dense evergreen barrier. Compared to the Perfect Plants Thuja Green Giant, which grows even faster but reaches a similar mature size, these trees are ideal for those wanting an immediate screen that matures quickly. Their low-maintenance nature makes them suitable for homeowners seeking a hassle-free option, though they require ample space for full growth and consistent watering during establishment. Unlike the Green Wall Willow Cuttings, which establish even faster but might spread or require more management, Leyland Cypress offers a more controlled growth pattern—if space allows. They excel in larger yards where quick, tall privacy is needed but may overgrow or become unruly without pruning.
Pros:- Fast-growing with quick privacy results
- Low-maintenance and easy to care for
- Evergreen foliage provides year-round beauty
- Versatile for various landscape uses
Cons:- Requires space for full growth
- May need watering during establishment
- Potential for overgrowth if not maintained
Best for: Property owners needing large-scale, fast-growing privacy screens with minimal ongoing care
Not ideal for: Small gardens or urban settings with limited space or height restrictions
- Quantity:20 trees
- Height:6-12 inches
- Type:Leyland Cypress
- Growth Rate:3-4 feet annually
- Seasonal Color:Evergreen
Our verdict“This pick is best for those with large properties seeking immediate, dense privacy and space for growth.”
Green Wall Willow Privacy Tree Cuttings – Fast Growing Hedge for Privacy and Windbreaks (10 Cuttings)
The Green Wall Willow cuttings are an excellent choice for those wanting a rapid, natural privacy barrier, establishing much faster than traditional saplings. Their ultra-fast growth makes them perfect for creating dense screens in a single season, especially compared with the slower-growing Leyland Cypress. Suitable for beginners, these cuttings are simple to plant and adaptable to various soils, though they require regular watering during initial establishment. While they can spread if not managed well, their quick growth and lush foliage are hard to beat for immediate screening. The potential for overgrowth means they work best where space is ample, unlike the more contained Thuja Green Giant which needs pruning to maintain shape but is less invasive.
Pros:- Fast-establishing and quick privacy
- Easy to plant from cuttings, ideal for beginners
- Creates dense, lush foliage for noise reduction
- Low maintenance and adaptable
Cons:- May require regular watering early on
- Can spread if not properly managed
- Growth speed varies with climate
Best for: Homeowners seeking an inexpensive, fast-establishing hedge or windbreak with minimal fuss
Not ideal for: Small yards or property owners wanting a controlled, non-spreading hedge
- Quantity:10 cuttings
- Growth Rate:Ultra fast
- Uses:Privacy screen, windbreak, hedge, border
- Planting Distance:2-3 feet apart
- Maintenance:Low
Our verdict“This option is perfect for those who want rapid, natural privacy with minimal initial investment, provided space and management are considered.”
Leyland Cypress | 10 Live Plants | Cupressus × leylandii | Fast Growing Evergreen Trees | Privacy Hedge Plants for Landscaping
These Leyland Cypress live plants offer a reliable option for creating privacy screens and windbreaks with a rapid growth rate. Compared to the 20 Leyland Cypress Trees pack, these 10 plants are more suited for smaller projects or mid-sized landscapes, providing dense, evergreen coverage with less initial investment. Their low-maintenance profile and adaptability to various soils make them suitable for residential or commercial use, though they may require pruning to keep them shapely and prevent overgrowth. Their size and growth rate make them less ideal for tight spaces or small gardens, where the larger mature size could be overwhelming unless carefully managed.
Pros:- Fast-growing and dense evergreen foliage
- Low-maintenance and adaptable
- Ideal for privacy screens and windbreaks
Cons:- May require regular pruning for shape
- Can grow quite large, needing space management
Best for: Homeowners or landscapers wanting quick privacy with manageable initial planting, in medium-sized yards
Not ideal for: Limited spaces or those seeking slow, more controlled growth for aesthetic reasons
- Type:Live Plants
- Scientific Name:Cupressus × leylandii
- Quantity:10 plants
- Growth Rate:Fast Growing
- Use:Privacy hedge, windbreak, landscaping
Our verdict“This choice suits those wanting quick, dense privacy in medium to large yards with minimal fuss.”
Perfect Plants Thuja Green Giant Arborvitae, 3 Gallon, Privacy Trees
The Thuja Green Giant is favored for its rapid growth—up to 3-5 feet annually—making it an excellent choice for quick privacy in larger landscapes. While it grows slightly more slowly than the Leyland Cypress, its dense, dark green foliage provides a consistent privacy barrier that remains attractive year-round. Compared with the 20 Leyland Cypress, it offers a more controlled shape, especially with pruning, and is less prone to overgrowth if maintained. Its drought tolerance makes it particularly suitable for drier climates, but it requires well-drained soil and regular watering in the first year. The restrictions for California and Arizona residents are a limitation, but for most zones 5-9, it remains a reliable, low-maintenance option for fast privacy.
Pros:- Fast-growing with quick privacy
- Drought-tolerant and low maintenance
- Evergreen foliage maintains color year-round
- Deer-resistant
Cons:- Restricted in California and Arizona
- Requires well-drained soil and regular watering initially
Best for: Homeowners in zones 5-9 seeking fast-growing, drought-tolerant privacy trees in medium to large yards
Not ideal for: Residents in restricted states or those seeking a smaller, less invasive hedge
- Size:3 gallons
- Growth Rate:3-5 feet per year
- Mature Height:40 feet
- Mature Width:20 feet
- Zones:5-9
- Foliage:Dense, dark green
Our verdict“This pick is ideal for those in suitable zones wanting rapid, drought-tolerant privacy with minimal ongoing fuss.”
How We Picked
To determine the best fast-growing privacy plants, I focused on growth rate, density of foliage, ease of planting and maintenance, and adaptability across different climates. I evaluated the variety of options—from seedlings and cuttings to mature trees—considering their suitability for both small and large spaces. Cost-effectiveness and availability also played a role, with a preference for plants that offer reliable growth without excessive upkeep. The ranking reflects a balance between rapid screening, long-term privacy, and overall ease for homeowners, ensuring choices cater to different needs and investment levels.Factors to Consider When Choosing Best Fast-growing Privacy Plants
Selecting the right fast-growing privacy plant involves considering several key factors. Beyond initial appearance, it’s crucial to evaluate how quickly a plant will establish, how much space it will need, and its maintenance requirements. Climate compatibility and mature size are often overlooked but significantly impact long-term success. Understanding these broader considerations helps prevent common mistakes, such as choosing plants unsuitable for your region or expecting instant privacy without accounting for growth time and care needs.Growth Rate and Maturity Time
While quick growth is a top priority, it’s important to understand how long each plant takes to reach its full privacy potential. Some species, like Leyland Cypress, can grow several feet per year and provide immediate coverage within a few seasons. Others, such as certain willow varieties, may take longer initially but catch up in a few years. Planning for the plant’s mature size also prevents overcrowding and future pruning challenges, making it essential to choose a species that aligns with your timeline and space constraints.
Climate and Hardiness
Not all fast-growing plants are suitable for every region. Cold-hardy options like Hybrid Willows thrive in colder climates, while some evergreen species prefer milder conditions. Matching your local climate with the plant’s hardiness zone ensures healthy growth and reduces failure risk. Overlooking this factor can lead to poor performance or the need for costly replacements, so always check the plant’s hardiness zone before purchasing.
Maintenance and Care Needs
Fast growth often requires regular pruning and watering, especially for larger trees like the Green Giant Arborvitae. Some species are relatively low-maintenance, while others may need frequent shaping to maintain privacy and health. Consider your willingness and ability to care for the plants long-term. Choosing low-maintenance options can save time and effort but might mean sacrificing some of the rapid growth benefits.
Size at Purchase and Maturity
The initial size of the plant influences how quickly it provides privacy. Larger, more mature plants cost more but can deliver instant screening, ideal for immediate needs. Smaller seedlings or cuttings are more budget-friendly but require patience and space to grow. Balance your budget with your privacy requirements to select a plant that fits both short-term and long-term goals.
Cost and Availability
Budget considerations play a significant role; cuttings and small plants are cheaper but take longer to establish. Larger, pre-grown trees are more expensive but offer instant privacy. Availability varies seasonally and regionally, so sourcing from reliable nurseries ensures healthier plants and better success rates. Weigh your financial investment against desired privacy speed to make a balanced choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I plant fast-growing privacy plants in containers?
Yes, some fast-growing plants like certain willows and dwarf varieties of arborvitae can thrive in containers, especially if space is limited. Container planting allows greater control over soil quality and watering but may restrict root growth, potentially slowing overall growth rates. Regular pruning and repotting are essential to maintain health and promote rapid growth. Keep in mind that container-grown plants might need more frequent watering and fertilization than those planted in the ground.
How much space do I need for these fast-growing privacy trees?
The required space depends on the mature size of the plant. For example, Leyland Cypress and Green Giant Arborvitae can reach heights of 20-30 feet with a spread of 8-12 feet, so ample room is necessary. Willow trees, being larger and more spreading, need even more space to grow without crowding. Always check the mature dimensions before planting to avoid overcrowding, which can lead to disease and maintenance issues down the line.
Are fast-growing privacy plants suitable for small yards?
While many fast-growing plants can be used in small yards, their rapid growth and large mature size may require frequent pruning or eventual removal. Smaller, shrub-like options such as certain dwarf varieties of thuja or compact cypress can work better in limited spaces. Consider your long-term plans and how much space you can allocate for growth. If instant privacy is needed, starting with larger, more mature plants may be a better choice, though at a higher cost.
How long does it take for these plants to provide full privacy?
The timeline varies by species and planting method. Fast-growing options like Leyland Cypress or Hybrid Willows can offer substantial privacy within 2-3 years, especially if planted as larger specimens. Seedlings and cuttings may take 4-6 years to reach full coverage. For immediate privacy, investing in mature plants or trees is the best approach, but keep in mind the higher initial cost. Proper care and planting in optimal conditions can accelerate growth rates.
What is the best way to ensure fast growth and healthy plants?
Providing the right growing conditions is key. Ensure the soil is appropriate and well-drained, and select a site with suitable sunlight exposure. Regular watering, mulching, and fertilization support healthy development. Pruning helps maintain dense growth and shape, especially for shrubs and smaller trees. Avoid planting in overly shaded or poor soil areas, which can slow growth and lead to weaker plants. Proper spacing also prevents competition and promotes faster screening.
Conclusion
For quick privacy in large yards or for immediate screening, larger mature plants like Thuja Green Giant Arborvitae or Leyland Cypress are the best choices. Budget-conscious buyers aiming for long-term coverage might prefer starting with live cuttings like Green Wall Willow, which are more affordable but slower to establish. Beginners should look for low-maintenance options like the Green Giant, which combine rapid growth with ease of care. For those in colder regions, hardy species like Hybrid Willows deliver reliable results without extra effort. Each choice reflects different priorities—speed, cost, size, or climate compatibility—so match the plant to your specific needs for the best outcome.
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