Choosing the best fast-growing shrubs can dramatically accelerate your landscape transformation, providing quick privacy, color, or structure. The Highlander Boxwood stands out as the top overall choice for its reliable growth and versatility, while the Emerald Green Arborvitae offers dense evergreen coverage with minimal fuss. For those seeking drought tolerance and low maintenance, the Wax Myrtle is a strong contender. However, tradeoffs often involve balancing rapid growth with maintenance needs or potential size control issues. Keep reading for a detailed breakdown of these options to find the perfect fit for your garden goals.
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Key Takeaways
- The top-ranked shrubs balance rapid growth with ease of maintenance and long-term health.
- Evergreens like Arborvitae and Boxwood dominate for privacy screens and hedges, but may require pruning to control size.
- Drought-tolerant options like Wax Myrtle excel in low-water scenarios, though they may be less dense initially.
- Some shrubs, such as Forsythia and Nandina, add seasonal color that complements their fast growth habits.
- Price and container size vary widely; larger or more established plants tend to be more expensive but offer quicker results.
| 6 Highlander Boxwood – Fast-Growing Evergreen Shrub for Privacy Hedges, Screens & Borders (Buxus sempervirens ‘Highlander’) in 3.5″ Cubes, Live Plants |  | Best Overall for Classic Privacy and Versatility | Quantity: 6 plants | Plant Type: Evergreen shrub | Variety: Buxus sempervirens ‘Highlander’ | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Encore Azalea 1 Gal. Autumn Majesty Azalea Shrub |  | Best for Year-Round Color in Moderate Climates | 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 Easy, Low-Maintenance Privacy Screens | Height: 1-2 Feet | Type: Live Plant | Plant Category: Evergreen Shrub | 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, Aromatic Privacy Screens in Drought-Prone Areas | Plant Type: Live Plants | Quantity: 20 | Species: Myrica Cerifera | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Dwarf Red Burning Bush Live Plant, 2.5 Inch Pot |  | Best for Seasonal Color and Compact Height | Plant Type: Live Plant | Size: 2.5 Inch Pot | Mature Height: 4-8 Feet | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Brighter Blooms Thuja Green Giant Arborvitae, 2-3 ft |  | Best Overall for Rapid Privacy Creation | Height: 2-3 ft | Growth Rate: 3-5 ft per year | Shipping Restrictions: No shipping to AK, AZ, HI, OR | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Proven Winners 1 Gal. Neatball Boxwood Shrub |  | Best for Year-Round Tidy Growth and Versatility | USDA Hardiness Zone: 5-9 | Mature Size: 24-36 in. W x 24-36 in. H | Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| It’s Not Dead Yet mitogrow Tree & Shrub Plant Support |  | Best for Root Development and Stress Reduction | 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 |
| Wintergreen Boxwood, Live Plant, 3-Gallon Container |  | Best for Cold-Hardy Evergreen Landscaping | Mature Size: 3-4 ft in height and width | Container Size: 3-gallon | Appearance: Glossy, dark green leaves | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Nellie Stevens Holly 1 Gal. Pot | Fast Growing Privacy Evergreen |  | Best for Dense, Instant Privacy Hedges | Size: Up to 25 ft tall, 15 ft wide | Growth Habit: Dense, fast-growing evergreen | Flowers: White in spring | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Lynwood Gold Forsythia Bush – Yellow Flowering Shrub – Live Plant, 1-2 Feet Tall |  | Best for Early Color and Easy Ground Planting | Type: Forsythia Bush | Color: Yellow | Size: 1-2 feet tall | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Southern Living 2 Gal. Obsession Nandina Shrub |  | Best for Year-Round Foliage and Low Maintenance | Plant Type: Nandina Shrub | Size: 2 Gallons | Zones: 6-10 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Perfect Plants Thuja Green Giant 3 Gallon – Live Evergreen Tree for Landscaping & Privacy |  | Best for Fast Privacy and Evergreen 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 |
| Viburnum Odoratissimum | 3 Live Plants | Fast Growing Evergreen Shrub with Fragrant White Flowers |  | Best for Fragrant, Year-Round Greenery | Type: Live Plants | Quantity: 3 | Plant Type: Shrub | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
More Details on Our Top Picks
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 rapid growth and dense foliage, making it ideal for creating quick privacy screens or formal borders. Compared with the Wax Myrtle, which offers a more natural and aromatic look, Highlander Boxwood provides a cleaner, more structured appearance, though it requires regular pruning to maintain its shape. This shrub is especially suited for landscapers seeking a reliable evergreen that adapts well across USDA Zones 5–9. Its low-maintenance nature and cold-hardiness make it a practical choice, but natural variations in size can affect uniformity, and it excludes shipping to some regions, which could be a drawback for distant buyers. Overall, this pick makes the most sense for homeowners wanting a fast, adaptable hedge that combines ease and year-round greenery.
Pros:- Fast-growing and dense for quick privacy coverage
- Low-maintenance and cold-hardy
- Suitable for various landscaping uses
Cons:- Natural size and appearance variability possible
- Excludes shipping to some regions like Alaska, Hawaii, and Puerto Rico
- Requires occasional pruning to maintain shape
Best for: Gardeners and landscapers seeking a quick-establishing, low-maintenance privacy hedge in temperate climates.
Not ideal for: Buyers in far northern or tropical regions where shipping restrictions apply, or those preferring a more natural, wild look over formal hedging.
- 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 suits those seeking a reliable, fast-growing evergreen hedge with a formal appearance and minimal fuss.”
Encore Azalea 1 Gal. Autumn Majesty Azalea Shrub
The Autumn Majesty Azalea excels at providing vibrant, evergreen foliage along with stunning spring blooms, making it ideal for gardeners who want visual interest throughout the year. Unlike the Emerald Green Arborvitae, which offers a more uniform and evergreen privacy screen, this azalea’s seasonal bursts of color add a dynamic element to landscapes. Its preference for USDA zones 6a-9b means it’s best suited for temperate regions, and it needs full sun to partial shade for optimal flowering. Though low-maintenance, it does demand some attention to sunlight exposure, and its more limited zone range may exclude colder areas. This shrub makes the most sense for gardeners who value seasonal color and are willing to meet its light requirements.
Pros:- Year-round visual interest with evergreen foliage and flowers
- Low maintenance and easy to grow
- Suitable across a broad USDA zone range
Cons:- Limited to zones 6a-9b, not suitable for colder areas
- Requires full sun to partial shade for optimal flowering
Best for: Homeowners in USDA zones 6a-9b seeking a visually appealing shrub with multi-season interest.
Not ideal for: Cold climate gardeners or those with full shade conditions, as the azalea prefers sun and warmer zones for best results.
- Size:42 inches H x 36 inches W
- Zone:6a-9b
- Sunlight:Full sun to partial shade
- Type:Evergreen
Our verdict“This azalea is ideal for gardeners wanting colorful, evergreen shrubs that bloom in spring and retain interest year-round in suitable zones.”
Brighter Blooms Emerald Green Arborvitae, 1-2 Feet – Live Plant
The Emerald Green Arborvitae offers a compact, fast-growing option perfect for small spaces or quick privacy screens. Its ease of growth and adaptability to various soil types make it a favorite among those seeking a low-effort evergreen hedge. Compared with the Highlander Boxwood, which requires regular pruning to maintain a formal shape, this arborvitae naturally develops a tidy, dense form with minimal intervention. However, its limited height—just 1-2 feet—means it’s better suited for foundational planting or small borders rather than tall privacy barriers. Also, it cannot be shipped to some regions like Alaska or Hawaii, which limits availability for remote buyers. This shrub is best for those wanting a hassle-free, neat hedge in small or urban landscapes.
Pros:- Easy to grow and maintain
- Provides effective privacy with minimal pruning
- Adapts well to different soil and weather conditions
Cons:- Limited to 1-2 feet in height, not suitable for tall hedges
- Cannot be shipped to some states like Alaska and Hawaii
Best for: Homeowners needing a compact, low-maintenance privacy shrub for small yards or foundation planting.
Not ideal for: Large property owners seeking tall or expansive privacy screens, or those in restricted shipping zones.
- Height:1-2 Feet
- Type:Live Plant
- Plant Category:Evergreen Shrub
Our verdict“This pick makes sense for those after a compact, hassle-free evergreen that stays neat with little effort.”
Wax Myrtle | 20 Live Plants | Myrica Cerifera | Fast Growing Shrub, Privacy Screen, Evergreen Foliage, Drought Tolerant, Low Maintenance
The Wax Myrtle shines as a fast-growing, aromatic evergreen with the ability to thrive in drought conditions. Unlike the Highlander Boxwood, which offers a more formal look, Wax Myrtle provides a natural, wild aesthetic suitable for informal landscapes or coastal gardens. Its rapid growth makes it excellent for quick screening, but regular pruning may be needed to keep it within desired bounds. It’s versatile across many environments, though in some regions, it may become invasive if not controlled, which is a key consideration. Its drought tolerance makes it appealing for water-conscious gardeners, but this same trait can require attentive maintenance to prevent overgrowth. Overall, this shrub suits those needing a natural, low-maintenance barrier that also offers aromatic foliage.
Pros:- Evergreen foliage provides year-round privacy
- Fast-growing and drought tolerant
- Aromatic, adds sensory interest
Cons:- May require regular pruning to maintain shape
- Potential invasiveness in some regions if left unchecked
Best for: Landscape enthusiasts in drought-prone or coastal regions seeking fast-growing, fragrant privacy plants.
Not ideal for: Gardeners in wet or cold climates, or those preferring a formal hedge, as Wax Myrtle’s natural form can be unruly and invasive if unmanaged.
- Plant Type:Live Plants
- Quantity:20
- Species:Myrica Cerifera
- Growth Rate:Fast
- Features:Evergreen foliage, Drought tolerant, Low maintenance
- Uses:Privacy screen, Ornamental, Garden landscape
Our verdict“This shrub is perfect for naturalistic landscapes that need quick privacy in drought-tolerant or coastal environments.”
Dwarf Red Burning Bush Live Plant, 2.5 Inch Pot
The Red Burning Bush offers vibrant red fall foliage, making it an excellent choice for adding seasonal color to borders and small hedges. Unlike the Highlander Boxwood, which provides consistent greenery year-round, this shrub’s standout feature is its fiery fall display. It’s suitable for USDA Zones 4-8, providing versatility across many temperate regions. Although its mature height can reach 4-8 feet, its compact 2.5-inch pot makes it ideal for quick planting and instant impact. However, its height may be too tall for small yards, and full sun is necessary for the best coloration, which can limit its placement options. Nonetheless, this shrub is perfect for gardeners who want seasonal color with moderate growth speed.
Pros:- Vibrant red fall foliage adds seasonal impact
- Suitable for hedges, borders, or decorative spots
- Hardy across USDA zones 4-8
Cons:- Potentially too tall for small yards
- Requires full sun for best coloration
- Mature height may be taller than desired in limited spaces
Best for: Gardeners wanting a colorful, seasonal focal point in USDA zones 4-8, especially in small or medium-sized landscapes.
Not ideal for: Those seeking evergreen privacy or in regions with less sun exposure, as the fall color needs full sun and mature height can be tall.
- Plant Type:Live Plant
- Size:2.5 Inch Pot
- Mature Height:4-8 Feet
- USDA Zones:4-8
- Features:Vibrant red fall foliage
Our verdict“This shrub makes a striking seasonal statement for those in temperate zones wanting fiery fall color and moderate growth.”
Brighter Blooms Thuja Green Giant Arborvitae, 2-3 ft
This Thuja Green Giant Arborvitae stands out for its unmatched speed, reaching 3-5 feet per year once established, making it ideal for quickly establishing privacy screens. Compared to the Nellie Stevens Holly, which grows fast but offers seasonal berries and flowers, the Green Giant provides year-round greenery with less maintenance. Its low-pruning requirement and uniform, lush appearance make it a top choice for those seeking instant landscape impact. However, limited size options and shipping restrictions to states like Alaska and Hawaii could be drawbacks for some buyers.
Best for: Homeowners wanting immediate privacy with minimal upkeep.
Not ideal for: Buyers in restricted shipping zones or those needing smaller or more customizable sizes.
- Fast-growing, providing quick privacy
- Low-maintenance, no pruning needed
- Creates a lush, uniform landscape
- Cannot be shipped to AK, AZ, HI, OR
- Limited size options listed
Verdict: This pick makes the most sense for those prioritizing rapid growth and minimal care for privacy hedges.
- Height:2-3 ft
- Growth Rate:3-5 ft per year
- Shipping Restrictions:No shipping to AK, AZ, HI, OR
Our verdict“Best Overall for Rapid Privacy Creation — a strong pick in this lineup.”
Proven Winners 1 Gal. Neatball Boxwood Shrub
The Neatball Boxwood earns its spot by offering a compact, dense, and evergreen form that maintains a tidy appearance year-round. Unlike the Wintergreen Boxwood, which reaches a similar size but might require more pruning to keep its shape, the Neatball is especially low-maintenance, thriving across USDA Zones 5-9 with minimal watering. Its uniform size and shape make it perfect for front gardens or formal hedges, though its mature size beyond 36 inches isn’t clearly detailed, which could limit long-term planning. This shrub’s resilience to various conditions makes it a versatile choice for many gardeners.
Best for: Gardeners seeking a reliable, low-maintenance evergreen for year-round structure.
Not ideal for: Those requiring detailed mature size specifications or growing in full shade.
- Hardy across USDA zones 5-9
- Low maintenance with minimal watering
- Evergreen foliage for all seasons
- Limited info on size beyond 36 inches
- Requires full sun to partial shade
Verdict: This shrub suits gardeners who want a small, tidy evergreen with minimal fuss.
- USDA Hardiness Zone:5-9
- Mature Size:24-36 in. W x 24-36 in. H
- Sunlight:Full sun to partial shade
- Water Needs:Little to no watering
Our verdict“Best for Year-Round Tidy Growth and Versatility — a strong pick in this lineup.”
It’s Not Dead Yet mitogrow Tree & Shrub Plant Support
This mitogrow supplement is designed to accelerate root growth, reduce transplant shock, and support stressed or newly planted shrubs. While it doesn’t grow shrubs directly like the Nellie Stevens Holly or Brighter Blooms Green Giant, it enhances their establishment and health. Compared to the Green Giant’s rapid height increase, mitogrow focuses on root health, which is essential for long-term vigor. Its effectiveness depends heavily on proper application and multiple treatments, making it less of a standalone growth solution and more of a support product.
Best for: Gardeners planting new shrubs or trying to recover stressed plants.
Not ideal for: Those seeking immediate, visible height increase without additional care.
- Promotes faster establishment and root growth
- Reduces transplant shock and stress
- Supports plant health throughout the year
- Multiple applications may be necessary
- Depends on proper application for effectiveness
Verdict: This supplement is best for enhancing the health of recently planted or stressed shrubs rather than quick growth on its own.
- 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“Best for Root Development and Stress Reduction — a strong pick in this lineup.”
Wintergreen Boxwood, Live Plant, 3-Gallon Container
The Wintergreen Boxwood offers dense, dark green foliage that remains vibrant year-round, making it a reliable choice for formal hedges or accent plants. While it grows at a steady pace to reach 3-4 feet, it doesn’t match the explosive growth of the Brighter Blooms Green Giant. Its main strength lies in its cold hardiness and adaptability, thriving in a variety of conditions. However, it requires well-draining soil and full or partial sun to flourish, and its growth rate means it’s less suitable if you need rapid coverage or privacy in a hurry.
Best for: Gardeners in colder climates needing a hardy, evergreen shrub for landscaping accents.
Not ideal for: Those seeking fast-growing privacy screens or quick landscape transformation.
- Evergreen foliage for year-round interest
- Cold hardy and adaptable
- Suitable for formal hedges or accents
- Growth rate is moderate, not rapid
- Needs well-draining soil
Verdict: This shrub is ideal for cold environments where stability and evergreen appeal matter more than speed.
- Mature Size:3-4 ft in height and width
- Container Size:3-gallon
- Appearance:Glossy, dark green leaves
- Growing Conditions:Partial to full sun, well-draining soil
Our verdict“Best for Cold-Hardy Evergreen Landscaping — a strong pick in this lineup.”
Nellie Stevens Holly 1 Gal. Pot | Fast Growing Privacy Evergreen
The Nellie Stevens Holly is prized for its rapid growth and dense foliage, making it a go-to for privacy hedges and screens. It can reach up to 25 feet tall and 15 feet wide, offering immediate coverage once established, especially compared with slower-growing options like the Wintergreen Boxwood. Its deep green, evergreen foliage stays attractive year-round, and spring white flowers plus fall red berries add seasonal interest. The main tradeoff is its need for regular watering initially and pruning to control its tall growth in small spaces. Still, its quick, dense growth makes it ideal for instant privacy solutions.
Best for: Those wanting fast, dense privacy barriers with minimal fuss.
Not ideal for: Gardeners with limited space or those unwilling to prune regularly for size control.
- Fast-growing and dense for privacy
- Evergreen foliage year-round
- Low maintenance once established
- Requires consistent watering post-planting
- Potentially grows tall, needing pruning for smaller areas
Verdict: This shrub suits buyers seeking an immediate, dense privacy screen with minimal ongoing effort.
- Size:Up to 25 ft tall, 15 ft wide
- Growth Habit:Dense, fast-growing evergreen
- Flowers:White in spring
- Berries:Red in fall
- Hardiness Zones:6-9
- Usage:Privacy hedge, screen, ornamental
Our verdict“Best for Dense, Instant Privacy Hedges — a strong pick in this lineup.”
Lynwood Gold Forsythia Bush – Yellow Flowering Shrub – Live Plant, 1-2 Feet Tall
This Forsythia Bush stands out for its bright yellow flowers that herald spring, making it a lively addition for those seeking quick seasonal impact. Compared with the Viburnum Odoratissimum, which offers year-round greenery and fragrant flowers, the Forsythia provides a burst of color early in the season but may be less attractive in winter when it is leafless. Its deciduous nature means it won’t offer winter foliage, which might be a drawback for year-round privacy. Its ready-to-plant, bare-root condition simplifies planting, but its size may vary slightly upon arrival, and it’s limited to ground planting only. This shrub is ideal for gardeners focused on early bloom color in zones 5-9 who prefer straightforward planting.
Pros:- Ready to plant upon arrival with clear instructions
- Thrives across a wide planting zone range (5-9)
- Shipped as bare root for healthy transplanting
Cons:- Deciduous, so it is leafless in winter
- Limited to ground planting; not suitable for containers
Best for: Gardeners wanting quick seasonal color with minimal fuss, especially in zone 5-9.
Not ideal for: Those seeking a shrub with year-round foliage or container compatibility, as it is deciduous and ground-only.
- Type:Forsythia Bush
- Color:Yellow
- Size:1-2 feet tall
- Planting Zone:5-9
- Plant Type:Deciduous shrub
Our verdict“This pick suits gardeners looking for a vibrant, early-spring shrub that’s easy to establish in suitable zones.”
Southern Living 2 Gal. Obsession Nandina Shrub
This Nandina Shrub offers vibrant, colorful foliage throughout all seasons, making it a versatile choice compared with the Green Giant conifers, which focus more on height and privacy. Its broad USDA zones 6-10 coverage and low-maintenance profile make it ideal for gardeners who want reliable, attractive greenery with minimal effort. However, it requires regular watering until established, and its mature size isn’t clearly defined, which could be a concern for space planning. In colder zones, some protection might be needed to prevent winter damage. This shrub makes the most sense for those wanting a decorative, evergreen presence with seasonal interest and easy care.
Pros:- Beautiful, colorful foliage year-round
- Suitable for a wide range of zones (6-10)
- Low-maintenance and easy to care for
Cons:- Requires regular watering until established
- Uncertain mature size, which may affect planning
- Potential need for winter protection in colder zones
Best for: Homeowners seeking a colorful, low-maintenance shrub that provides year-round interest in zones 6-10.
Not ideal for: Gardeners in colder zones below zone 6 or those wanting quick, tall privacy screens, as its mature size may be limited and protection might be needed in winter.
- 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 gardeners wanting colorful, low-effort greenery that persists through all seasons in suitable zones.”
Perfect Plants Thuja Green Giant 3 Gallon – Live Evergreen Tree for Landscaping & Privacy
The Thuja Green Giant is renowned for its rapid growth, achieving up to 3 feet annually, making it an excellent choice for quickly establishing privacy screens or windbreaks. Compared with Viburnum Odoratissimum, which offers fragrant flowers and year-round evergreen foliage, the Green Giant emphasizes fast vertical growth and dense privacy. It reaches a towering 40 feet and 20 feet wide at maturity, so it requires ample space and early watering in its first year to establish strong roots. Its deer resistance and low maintenance make it a favorite for landscapers, but it cannot be shipped to CA or AZ, limiting availability in some regions. This tree is ideal for those wanting immediate privacy with minimal ongoing effort.
Pros:- Extremely fast-growing at 3 feet per year
- Provides immediate privacy and screening
- Deer-resistant and adaptable to various zones
Cons:- Cannot be shipped to CA or AZ
- Requires regular watering and mulching early on
- Mature size may be overwhelming in small yards
Best for: Homeowners seeking a quick-growing, low-maintenance privacy tree for large yards in zones 5-9.
Not ideal for: Urban gardeners with space constraints or in states where shipping is restricted, or those not prepared for the mature size requiring space.
- 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 tree is best suited for larger landscapes where rapid privacy is a priority and space is plentiful.”
Viburnum Odoratissimum | 3 Live Plants | Fast Growing Evergreen Shrub with Fragrant White Flowers
This Viburnum Odoratissimum attracts attention with its fragrant white flowers and dense evergreen foliage, making it a compelling choice for those who enjoy sensory appeal along with fast growth. Its ability to attract pollinators and provide year-round greenery surpasses many other fast-growing shrubs like Forsythia, which only bloom seasonally. However, its full growth may require ample space, and flowering can be seasonal depending on climate conditions. Its low-maintenance and drought-tolerant nature make it suitable for gardeners seeking a reliable, fragrant privacy hedge or standalone feature. This shrub is perfect for those prioritizing fragrance, pollinator attraction, and dense evergreen coverage.
Pros:- Fast-growing and dense for quick privacy
- Fragrant white flowers attract pollinators
- Low-maintenance and drought tolerant
Cons:- May need ample space to reach full size
- Seasonal flowering depending on climate
- Potential for overgrowth if not maintained
Best for: Gardeners wanting a fast-growing, fragrant shrub that offers year-round greenery and attracts pollinators.
Not ideal for: Limited space gardeners or those in climates where flowering might be inconsistent, as full flowering depends on climate conditions.
- Type:Live Plants
- Quantity:3
- Plant Type:Shrub
- Foliage:Evergreen
- Flowers:Fragrant White
- Growth Rate:Fast
Our verdict“This shrub is ideal for gardeners seeking rapid, fragrant greenery and pollinator attraction in suitable climates.”
How We Picked
Our evaluation focused on growth rate, ease of care, adaptability to different climates, and overall landscape value. We prioritized shrubs that reliably reach their mature size within a few seasons, without excessive pruning or maintenance. Durability and low water needs also played a key role, especially for homeowners seeking low-effort options. The ranking reflects a balance between affordability, growth performance, and versatility, ensuring there’s a suitable shrub for diverse garden styles and skill levels.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Best Fast-growing Shrubs
When selecting the best fast-growing shrubs, consider factors beyond just how quickly they grow. Understanding your climate, soil type, and specific landscape goals can help narrow your choices. Growth habit, maintenance needs, and eventual size are critical to avoid planting a shrub that becomes unmanageable. Cost is also a consideration; faster growth often means higher initial investment or more frequent pruning. Keep these considerations in mind to choose a shrub that not only grows fast but also fits your long-term garden plan.
Climate Compatibility
Ensure the shrub you choose is suited to your local climate zone. Some fast growers thrive in mild conditions but struggle in extreme cold or heat, affecting their growth rate and longevity. Always check the USDA hardiness zone and select plants rated for your area to avoid disappointment and extra costs from replacements or special care requirements.
Growth Habit and Size Management
Understand how the shrub grows—whether it spreads, upright, or bushy—and consider how much space it will need at maturity. Fast-growing plants can quickly become unmanageable if they outpace your expectations or available space. Selecting shrubs with a predictable habit and pruning requirements helps keep your landscape looking tidy and healthy over time.
Maintenance and Care
Many fast-growing shrubs need regular pruning to maintain their shape and size, which can be time-consuming or costly if you hire landscapers. Drought-tolerant options or those with pest-resistant traits tend to require less ongoing care. Clarify your willingness to prune or fertilize regularly before choosing a high-growth shrub to avoid frustration and extra effort.
Budget and Plant Size
Prices vary greatly depending on the size and maturity of the plant. Larger, more established shrubs grow faster and provide immediate impact but come at a higher cost. Smaller or younger plants are more affordable but will require time and patience to reach their full size. Balancing your budget with your timeline will help you select a shrub that fits your landscape goals.
Long-Term Landscape Goals
Think about how the shrub fits into your overall landscape design, whether for privacy, color, or structural interest. Some fast growers like Forsythia and Nandina provide seasonal blooms or color contrast, adding vibrancy to your yard. Others, like Arborvitae or Boxwood, offer evergreen coverage for year-round privacy or windbreaks. Match your choice to your long-term vision for the easiest, most satisfying results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will fast-growing shrubs require frequent pruning?
Many fast-growing shrubs do benefit from regular pruning to maintain their shape and prevent overgrowth, especially in small yards or when used as hedges. While some, like Nandina or Wax Myrtle, are relatively low-maintenance, others such as Forsythia might need more frequent trimming to keep them contained. Planning for pruning as part of your ongoing landscape care ensures your shrubs stay healthy and look their best without becoming unruly.
Are fast-growing shrubs suitable for small gardens?
Fast-growing shrubs can be a good choice for small gardens if you select compact varieties or plan to prune regularly. However, many vigorous growers like Green Giant Thuja or Nellie Stevens Holly can reach large sizes quickly, potentially overwhelming limited space. Choosing smaller cultivars or planting them with future size management in mind helps keep your garden balanced and manageable.
What’s the best way to ensure quick growth when planting?
To maximize growth, start with healthy, well-established plants and ensure they are planted in well-draining soil with adequate nutrients. Providing proper watering, especially during the first growing season, boosts initial growth. Applying mulch can help retain soil moisture and regulate temperature, supporting faster establishment and growth. Remember, proper planting and care are key to realizing the full potential of fast-growing shrubs.
Can I plant multiple fast-growing shrubs close together?
Planting multiple fast-growing shrubs in proximity can quickly create privacy screens or hedges, but it’s important to consider their mature size and growth habits. Crowding shrubs can lead to poor air circulation and increased disease risk. Allow enough space for each plant to grow without competing for resources, and plan for eventual pruning or thinning to maintain healthy growth and appearance.
Are there any fast-growing shrubs that attract wildlife?
Yes, many fast-growing shrubs like Wax Myrtle, Nandina, and Viburnum are excellent for attracting birds, butterflies, and pollinators. These plants often produce berries, flowers, or fragrant foliage that appeals to wildlife. Incorporating such shrubs into your landscape can boost biodiversity and create a more dynamic garden environment, especially if you enjoy observing local wildlife.
Conclusion
For those seeking the best overall performer, the Highlander Boxwood offers reliable growth and versatility suitable for many landscapes. Gardeners prioritizing value might prefer the Emerald Green Arborvitae for its dense evergreen coverage at a lower cost. Beginners or those with limited maintenance capacity should consider the Wax Myrtle for its drought tolerance and minimal care needs. For larger projects or quick privacy, planting a combination of these shrubs tailored to your space will deliver the best results over time. Always balance growth speed with your ability to maintain and shape the plants for a thriving, attractive landscape.
