When selecting the best fast-growing shrubs, the goal is often quick coverage, vibrant foliage, or striking blooms. The Wax Myrtle stands out for its rapid growth rate and evergreen privacy screening, making it ideal for quick hedges. The Encore Autumn Majesty Azalea offers stunning fall color, though it may grow slower than some competitors. The main tradeoffs include balancing growth speed with maintenance needs and overall plant health. Continue reading for a detailed comparison that helps you find the right shrub for your landscape goals.
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Key Takeaways
- The fastest-growing options tend to prioritize height and density over flower color or shape.
- Evergreen shrubs generally offer year-round privacy, but some may require more maintenance or pruning.
- Flowering shrubs like Forsythia and Azaleas add seasonal interest, though their growth rates vary.
- Plant size at purchase influences how quickly you see landscape transformation, with larger specimens establishing faster.
- Tradeoffs often include higher initial cost for faster growth and more vigorous plants.
| Wax Myrtle | 20 Live Plants | Myrica Cerifera | Fast Growing Shrub, Privacy Screen, Evergreen Foliage |  | Best Overall for Versatile Privacy and Low Maintenance | Plant Type: Live Plants | Quantity: 20 | Scientific Name: Myrica Cerifera | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Encore Azalea 1 Gal. Autumn Majesty Azalea Shrub |  | Best for Low-Maintenance Year-Round Color | USDA Zones: 6a-9b | Mature Height: 42 inches | Mature Width: 36 inches | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Podocarpus Japanese Yew – 10 Live Plants, Evergreen Shrub for Landscaping |  | Best for Formal Hedges and Low-Maintenance Landscaping | Type: Evergreen Shrub | Quantity: 10 | Growth Rate: Slow to Moderate | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Nellie Stevens Holly 1 Gal. Pot | Fast Growing Privacy Evergreen |  | Best for Tall Privacy Hedges and Year-Round Interest | Size: 1 gallon pot | Growth Habit: Dense, pyramidal | Height: Up to 25 ft | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Viburnum Odoratissimum | 3 Live Plants | Fast Growing Evergreen Shrub with Fragrant White Flowers |  | Best for Fragrant, Fast-Growing Privacy and Accent | Type: Shrub | Number of Plants: 3 | Foliage: Evergreen | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Perfect Plants Sweet Viburnum Shrub 3 Gallon |  | Best Overall for Year-Round Privacy and Fragrance | Size: 3 Gallon | Growth Rate: Fast | Blooming Season: Spring | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Lynwood Gold Forsythia Bush – Yellow Flowering Shrub – Live Plant, 1-2 Feet Tall |  | Best for Bright Spring Color and Low Maintenance | Plant Type: Deciduous shrub | Height: 1-2 feet | Color: Yellow | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Perfect Plants Thuja Green Giant 3 Gallon Live Evergreen Tree for Landscaping & Privacy |  | Best for Fast-Growing Privacy Screens and Landscaping | 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 |
| Proven Winners 1 Gal. Neatball Boxwood Shrub |  | Best for Compact, Year-Round Greenery with Minimal Maintenance | USDA Hardiness Zone: 5-9 | Expected Plant Height: 36 inches | Water Needs: Little to no watering | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| 6 Highlander Boxwood – Fast-Growing Evergreen Shrubs for Privacy Hedges and Borders |  | Best for Creating Tall, Dense Privacy Hedges Quickly | Quantity: 6 plants | Plant Type: Boxwood (Buxus sempervirens ‘Highlander’) | Size: 3.5-inch cubes | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| fast-growing shrub | Growth Rate |
|---|---|
| Wax Myrtle | 20 Live Plants | | Fast Growing |
| Encore Azalea 1 Gal. Autumn Ma | — |
| Podocarpus Japanese Yew | Slow to Moderate |
| Nellie Stevens Holly 1 Gal. Po | — |
| Viburnum Odoratissimum | 3 Liv | Fast |
| Perfect Plants Sweet Viburnum | Fast |
| Lynwood Gold Forsythia Bush | — |
| Perfect Plants Thuja Green Gia | 3 feet per year |
| Proven Winners 1 Gal. Neatball | — |
| 6 Highlander Boxwood | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Wax Myrtle | 20 Live Plants | Myrica Cerifera | Fast Growing Shrub, Privacy Screen, Evergreen Foliage
This Wax Myrtle stands out as the best overall choice for those seeking a fast-growing, evergreen shrub that offers both privacy and ornamental appeal. Its aromatic foliage stays lush year-round, making it an attractive addition to any landscape. Compared to the Encore Azalea, which is more suited to specific USDA zones and requires more sunlight, the Wax Myrtle adapts to diverse soil and climate conditions with minimal effort. Its rapid growth makes it ideal for quick privacy screens, though it may need ample space for full development and could be invasive in some regions. The plant’s drought tolerance and low maintenance needs make it suitable for busy gardeners looking for reliable coverage without extensive upkeep.
Pros:- Aromatic evergreen foliage provides year-round beauty
- Fast-growing and versatile for various landscapes
- Low maintenance and drought tolerant
Cons:- May require significant space for full growth
- Potential invasiveness in some areas
Best for: Homeowners wanting a fast, low-maintenance privacy hedge in diverse climates
Not ideal for: Small gardens with limited space or regions where invasive plants are a concern
- Plant Type:Live Plants
- Quantity:20
- Scientific Name:Myrica Cerifera
- Growth Rate:Fast Growing
- Features:Evergreen Foliage, Drought Tolerant, Low Maintenance
- Uses:Privacy Screen, Ornamental, Garden Landscape
Our verdict“This shrub offers reliable, fast coverage with minimal fuss, making it ideal for larger landscapes needing quick privacy.”
Encore Azalea 1 Gal. Autumn Majesty Azalea Shrub
The Encore Azalea Autumn Majesty is a top pick for gardeners in USDA zones 6a-9b seeking a low-maintenance, evergreen shrub with seasonal charm. Its compact size—42 inches tall and 36 inches wide—makes it suitable for smaller spaces, especially when compared with the larger Nellie Stevens Holly, which can reach up to 25 feet. While it thrives in full sun to partial shade, it demands consistent sunlight for optimal blooming and health. This azalea provides vibrant, year-round greenery and spring flowers, but its zone restrictions limit its use in colder or hotter regions. Its ease of care and consistent performance make it a solid choice for those wanting reliable, colorful shrubbery with minimal effort.
Pros:- Low maintenance and easy to care for
- Evergreen interest year-round
- Compact size ideal for smaller landscapes
Cons:- Requires full sun to partial shade for best growth
- Limited to specific USDA zones
Best for: Gardeners in USDA zones 6a-9b seeking an easy-care, evergreen flowering shrub
Not ideal for: Regions with full shade or extreme climates outside zones 6a-9b
- USDA Zones:6a-9b
- Mature Height:42 inches
- Mature Width:36 inches
- Sunlight:Full sun to partial shade
- Evergreen:Yes
Our verdict“Perfect for those wanting a reliable, low-effort shrub that offers seasonal color and greenery year-round.”
Podocarpus Japanese Yew – 10 Live Plants, Evergreen Shrub for Landscaping
This Podocarpus Japanese Yew is well-suited for gardeners prioritizing a slow to moderate growth rate that yields lush, evergreen foliage with minimal effort. It excels as a formal hedge or standalone accent, especially when compared to the Nellie Stevens Holly, which grows faster but requires more pruning to maintain shape. Its low-maintenance nature, drought tolerance, and adaptability to various soils make it perfect for busy homeowners who value a tidy appearance with less frequent pruning. However, its slower growth means quicker results require patience, and it demands well-drained soil to thrive. It’s an excellent choice for those wanting a versatile, evergreen landscape element that won’t outgrow its space rapidly.
Pros:- Lush, year-round foliage
- Low-maintenance and drought tolerant
- Versatile for hedges and ornamental use
Cons:- Growth rate is slow to moderate
- Requires well-drained soil for best results
Best for: Gardeners seeking a slow-growing, low-maintenance evergreen for structured landscapes
Not ideal for: Those wanting rapid privacy screens or quick hedge coverage
- Type:Evergreen Shrub
- Quantity:10
- Growth Rate:Slow to Moderate
- Light Requirements:Full Sun to Partial Shade
- Foliage:Dark Green
- Maintenance:Low
Our verdict“Ideal for structured, low-maintenance landscapes where slow but steady growth is preferred over quick screening.”
Nellie Stevens Holly 1 Gal. Pot | Fast Growing Privacy Evergreen
The Nellie Stevens Holly is a go-to for those who want a dense, fast-growing evergreen shrub that can quickly establish a tall privacy barrier. Its glossy green foliage, white spring flowers, and bright red fall berries add seasonal interest, making it more than just a privacy screen. Compared with the Viburnum Odoratissimum, which is slightly less tall and more fragrant, Nellie Stevens Holly provides a more formidable barrier with its pyramidal form and potential to reach 25 feet tall. However, its rapid growth can require frequent pruning to maintain shape, and it may need extra watering during establishment. Its berries attract birds, adding wildlife value but also necessitating cleanup.
Pros:- Fast-growing and dense for privacy
- Evergreen foliage all year
- Seasonal flowers and berries add visual interest
Cons:- Can grow very tall, requiring regular pruning
- Requires watering during initial establishment
Best for: Homeowners wanting a quick, tall privacy hedge with seasonal interest
Not ideal for: Small gardens or those seeking low-growing, low-maintenance plants
- 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
Our verdict“A strong choice for quick privacy with added seasonal features, best for larger spaces and those comfortable with maintenance.”
Viburnum Odoratissimum | 3 Live Plants | Fast Growing Evergreen Shrub with Fragrant White Flowers
This Viburnum Odoratissimum offers a quick-growing, evergreen option with fragrant white flowers that bloom in spring, making it a favorite for those wanting both privacy and sensory appeal. Its dense foliage provides effective screening, similar in purpose to the Nellie Stevens Holly, but with a more aromatic touch. Compared to the Holly, it may not reach quite as tall, but its fragrant blooms attract pollinators, adding a wildlife-friendly benefit. It’s low-maintenance and drought-tolerant, though pruning is necessary to keep its shape and control growth depending on the climate. This shrub makes a strong impression for gardeners who value scent and quick coverage in a versatile garden setting.
Pros:- Fast-growing and dense for privacy
- Fragrant white flowers attract pollinators
- Low-maintenance and drought tolerant
Cons:- May require pruning to maintain shape
- Growth can vary with soil and climate conditions
Best for: Gardeners seeking a fast-growing, fragrant privacy hedge or feature plant
Not ideal for: Those wanting a formal, neatly maintained hedge or in very cold climates
- Type:Shrub
- Number of Plants:3
- Foliage:Evergreen
- Flower Color:White
- Blooming Season:Spring
- Growth Rate:Fast
- Maintenance:Low
- Drought Tolerance:Yes
Our verdict“Excellent for adding quick privacy and sensory interest, especially in gardens that benefit from fragrant blooms.”
Perfect Plants Sweet Viburnum Shrub 3 Gallon
This Sweet Viburnum stands out for its rapid growth and evergreen foliage, making it an excellent choice for those seeking quick privacy screens that stay lush year-round. Compared with the 6 Highlander Boxwood, it provides more immediate coverage, though it requires more space and maintenance. Its fragrant spring blooms attract pollinators, adding seasonal interest. However, it’s best suited to USDA Zones 8-10, so gardeners in colder climates might need to look elsewhere. Its heat and drought tolerance make it adaptable, but in dry conditions, supplemental watering remains necessary to sustain its vigor.
Pros:- Fast-growing with quick privacy coverage
- Fragrant spring flowers attract pollinators
- Evergreen foliage requires minimal winter cleanup
Cons:- Limited to USDA Zones 8-10, restricting colder regions
- Large size may require significant space and maintenance
- May need extra watering during droughts
Best for: Gardeners in warm climates needing fast privacy, minimal winter cleanup, and fragrant blooms
Not ideal for: Cold climate gardeners outside Zones 8-10 or those with limited space for large shrubs
- Size:3 Gallon
- Growth Rate:Fast
- Blooming Season:Spring
- Features:Heat & drought tolerant, evergreen leaves, fragrant flowers
Our verdict“Ideal for gardeners seeking a fast, fragrant, evergreen shrub in warmer zones who can manage its size and watering needs.”
Lynwood Gold Forsythia Bush – Yellow Flowering Shrub – Live Plant, 1-2 Feet Tall
The Lynwood Gold Forsythia is prized for its vibrant yellow flowers that bloom early in spring, adding immediate color after winter. Compared to the Perfect Plants Sweet Viburnum, it’s a deciduous shrub, so it offers seasonal interest mainly in spring and summer. Its compact size makes it suitable for smaller gardens, but being deciduous means it offers no winter greenery. Proper planting and watering are essential to ensure successful establishment, especially since it ships as a bare root plant in California. While it’s easy to care for, its seasonal nature might make it less appealing for year-round greenery.
Pros:- Bright yellow flowers provide early spring color
- Shipped as a healthy, ready-to-plant live shrub
- Suitable for a wide range of zones (5-9)
Cons:- Deciduous, so no leaves in winter
- Requires proper planting and watering for best growth
- Bare root shipping may need extra care in transplanting
Best for: Homeowners seeking a colorful, low-maintenance shrub to brighten spring gardens in zones 5-9
Not ideal for: Gardeners desiring evergreen privacy screens or year-round foliage in colder climates
- Plant Type:Deciduous shrub
- Height:1-2 feet
- Color:Yellow
- Zones:5-9
- Shipping Method:Bare root (California only)
Our verdict“Perfect for those wanting a vibrant spring accent in zones 5-9, with the understanding it offers seasonal interest only.”
Perfect Plants Thuja Green Giant 3 Gallon Live Evergreen Tree for Landscaping & Privacy
The Thuja Green Giant is a standout among fast-growing evergreens, capable of reaching 40 feet tall with a width of 20 feet, perfect for creating quick, dense privacy screens. Compared with the Highlander Boxwood, it offers faster vertical growth and greater height, though it requires more space and can be more demanding to manage in small yards. Its deer resistance and adaptability to zones 5-9 make it versatile, but it can’t be shipped to California or Arizona and needs well-drained soil to thrive. Regular watering during its first year helps establish healthy growth, but once mature, it demands minimal maintenance.
Pros:- Fast-growing, up to 3 feet per year
- Provides excellent privacy quickly
- Low-maintenance and deer-resistant
Cons:- Not available for shipping to CA or AZ
- Requires ample space for full mature size
- Needs well-drained soil for best results
Best for: Landscapers or homeowners wanting a rapid, tall privacy hedge in zones 5-9, with minimal ongoing maintenance
Not ideal for: Gardening in California or Arizona, or those with limited space for large trees
- Growth Rate:3 feet per year
- Mature Size:40 feet tall, 20 feet wide
- Hardiness Zones:5-9
- Soil:Well-drained
- Watering:Regular in first year
Our verdict“Best suited for those needing a tall, fast-growing evergreen privacy barrier in zones 5-9 who can provide space and proper soil conditions.”
Proven Winners 1 Gal. Neatball Boxwood Shrub
The Neatball Boxwood excels in providing a tidy, evergreen presence with a compact growth habit, making it ideal for front gardens and low-maintenance landscapes. Compared with the larger Highlander Boxwood, it remains smaller and easier to manage, but its mature size is only about 3 feet, which might be limiting for some privacy needs. Its hardy nature across zones 5-9 and minimal watering requirements make it a practical choice for many gardeners. However, limited information on soil preferences and growth beyond the initial size could make planning more challenging for those wanting quick full coverage.
Pros:- Hardy across USDA Zones 5-9
- Low maintenance and little watering needed
- Year-round evergreen foliage with seasonal interest
Cons:- Limited info on growth beyond 36 inches
- Size may be too small for quick privacy needs
- No detailed soil or watering instructions provided
Best for: Landscapers or homeowners wanting a low-maintenance, evergreen shrub for borders or foundation planting in zones 5-9
Not ideal for: Those seeking tall privacy hedges or rapid vertical growth in a small space
- USDA Hardiness Zone:5-9
- Expected Plant Height:36 inches
- Water Needs:Little to no watering
- Color:Green
- Foliage:Dark green
Our verdict“Great for low-maintenance, evergreen accents in zones 5-9, but not ideal for rapid or tall privacy barriers.”
6 Highlander Boxwood – Fast-Growing Evergreen Shrubs for Privacy Hedges and Borders
The Highlander Boxwood set offers six healthy, well-rooted plants that grow quickly, reaching 6-7 feet tall and 2-3 feet wide, making them perfect for privacy screens and borders. Compared to the Perfect Plants Sweet Viburnum, these boxwoods develop height more gradually but can be shaped easily through pruning. Their evergreen foliage maintains color year-round, and they ship in 3.5-inch cubes, ready for planting. However, natural size variations and regional shipping restrictions mean not every garden will get uniform or immediate coverage. These are best for gardeners who want a fast-growing, manageable hedge with a predictable shape.
Pros:- Fast-growing and easy to maintain
- Ideal for privacy hedges and borders
- Evergreen foliage provides all-year color
Cons:- Size variations may occur between plants
- Limited shipping options outside certain regions
- Requires regular pruning for shape and size control
Best for: Homeowners or landscapers looking to establish a tall, evergreen privacy hedge with minimal fuss in zones 5-9
Not ideal for: Those in regions outside zones 5-9 or seeking instant full coverage without planting time
- Quantity:6 plants
- Plant Type:Boxwood (Buxus sempervirens ‘Highlander’)
- Size:3.5-inch cubes
- Height:6-7 ft
- USDA Zones:5–9
- Care:Full sun to partial shade, regular watering, occasional pruning
Our verdict“Best suited for those wanting a quick, dense evergreen hedge that can be shaped over time in zones 5-9.”
How We Picked
These shrubs were evaluated based on growth rate, adaptability to different climates, ease of care, and overall landscape impact. We prioritized plants that reliably reach significant height within 2-3 years, while also considering maintenance needs and longevity. The ranking reflects a balance between rapid growth and practical considerations like size at purchase and suitability for various garden conditions. Plants with proven performance across multiple zones and low maintenance requirements earned higher scores, ensuring readers get options that deliver quick results with manageable effort.Factors to Consider When Choosing Best Fast-growing Shrubs
Choosing the best fast-growing shrub involves considering several factors beyond just growth speed. Understanding these can help you select plants that will thrive in your environment and meet your landscape needs, whether for privacy, aesthetic appeal, or screening. Avoid common mistakes like ignoring your local climate or soil type, which can hinder growth or cause plant failure. Here are key factors to keep in mind:Growth Rate and Size at Maturity
While speed is the primary concern, it’s essential to consider how large the shrub will grow over time. Some plants grow quickly initially but may not reach the desired height or width without pruning. Others may be slow to establish but eventually provide dense coverage. Match the expected growth rate with your space and maintenance capacity to avoid overcrowding or needing frequent trimming.
Climate and Hardiness
Not all shrubs perform well in every climate. Check your USDA hardiness zone and select plants proven to thrive there. A fast-growing shrub that struggles in your climate will require extra care or may not survive, negating its growth advantage. Local experience or nursery advice can help identify reliable options for your region.
Soil Compatibility and Water Needs
Healthy growth depends on suitable soil and watering practices. Some shrubs prefer well-drained, acidic soils, while others tolerate clay or alkaline conditions. Overwatering or underwatering can slow growth or cause plant stress. Consider your soil type and irrigation setup when choosing a shrub to ensure consistent, healthy development.
Maintenance and Pruning
Fast-growing plants often require regular pruning to maintain shape and health. Some species, like holly or boxwood, respond well to shaping, but others may become unruly without routine care. Factor in your willingness and ability to prune or fertilize regularly when selecting a shrub, especially for high-growth varieties.
Aesthetic and Seasonal Interest
While growth speed is key, consider what visual qualities you want year-round. Evergreen shrubs provide continuous privacy, while flowering varieties add seasonal color. Balancing rapid growth with aesthetic appeal will help you create a landscape that’s both functional and attractive, without sacrificing style for speed.
Frequently Asked Questions
How quickly can I expect my fast-growing shrub to provide privacy?
Most fast-growing shrubs can establish a privacy screen within 2 to 3 years, depending on the species and planting size. Larger, more mature plants at purchase will typically provide coverage faster, but they also cost more initially. Regular pruning and proper care will help accelerate this process, ensuring your privacy needs are met sooner.
Are these shrubs suitable for small gardens?
Some shrubs like the Lynwood Gold Forsythia or Neatball Boxwood are better suited for smaller spaces because of their manageable mature size. Others, like the Green Giant Thuja, may grow quite large and require more space or regular pruning to keep within bounds. Always check the expected mature size before planting in limited areas.
Do fast-growing shrubs require more maintenance?
Typically, yes. Their rapid growth can lead to overgrowth if not pruned regularly, and some may need more fertilization or pest control. However, choosing species known for resilience and low maintenance, like the Podocarpus Japanese Yew, can help balance growth speed with manageable upkeep.
Can I grow these shrubs in containers?
Many fast-growing shrubs can be kept in large containers, especially smaller varieties like the Neatball Boxwood. Container growing may slow growth slightly and require more frequent watering and fertilization. Be sure to select a size-appropriate container with drainage to support healthy development.
What is the best time to plant these shrubs for fastest growth?
The optimal planting window is early spring or fall when temperatures are moderate. This allows roots to establish before extreme weather conditions, promoting quicker growth. Proper soil preparation and watering immediately after planting will also influence how rapidly your shrub begins to thrive.
Conclusion
For those seeking overall reliability and quick results, the Wax Myrtle stands out as the best choice, thanks to its rapid growth and evergreen coverage. Budget-conscious buyers will appreciate the Neatball Boxwood for its affordability and steady growth. Gardeners new to landscaping should consider the Forsythia Bush for its ease of care and vibrant spring blooms. For large properties or privacy needs, the Green Giant Thuja offers impressive height and density, although it requires space and maintenance. Ultimately, your choice depends on your specific landscape goals, climate, and willingness to care for your plants.
