Creating a serene and secluded outdoor atmosphere requires enhancing privacy. One visually pleasing and effective method is using shrubs to construct private fences. These living barriers not only offer seclusion but also enhance the beauty and allure of your landscape. Whether you have a small backyard or a vast garden, choosing the right shrubs can significantly contribute to establishing a private oasis. In this comprehensive guide, we present the top 12 shrubs known for their ability to form natural fences, striking the perfect balance between functionality and aesthetic appeal. Explore a diverse range of options, from evergreen shrubs that ensure year-round privacy to flowering varieties that introduce splashes of color and delightful fragrances to your outdoor haven. With our expert selection, you’ll discover the ideal shrubs to transform your open space into a secluded sanctuary where relaxation and tranquility abound.
1. Arborvitae
Arborvitae is a favored choice for living privacy fences, offering dense evergreen leaves and resilience against cold temperatures.
Spartan Juniper
Juniper shrubs, such as Spartan juniper, form tall barriers for privacy with their versatile height and effective foliage.
Hydrangea
Hydrangeas provide a lush appearance and voluminous foliage, offering partial privacy and vibrant colors to your fence.
Butterfly Bush
Butterfly Bush attracts butterflies while creating a beautiful privacy fence with its dense growth and fragrant flowers.
Lilac
Lilac shrubs combine fragrant flowers and tall, bushy growth to block unwanted views and create a secluded space.
Euonymus
Euonymus shrubs offer dense foliage, fast growth, and versatility, making them ideal for privacy fences in various styles.
Chocolate Vine
Chocolate Vine is a fast-growing vine with heart-shaped leaves, producing clusters of fragrant flowers for a natural privacy fence.
Hicks Yew
Hicks Yew, an evergreen shrub with dark foliage, is easily pruned to desired dimensions, providing year-round privacy.
Boxwood
Boxwood, with compact growth and evergreen leaves, offers year-round privacy and can be shaped into hedges or topiaries.
Skip Laurel
Skip Laurel features dense, glossy foliage, providing privacy and screening out unwanted views and noise.
Bamboo
Bamboo grows rapidly and forms a dense barrier for privacy, but clumping varieties should be chosen to prevent spreading.
Holly
Holly shrubs, with their dense evergreen foliage and red berries, can be pruned to desired shapes and offer privacy and visual appeal.