1. Leylandii (Cupressocyparis leylandii)
- Growth Rate: Very fast, up to 1 meter (3 feet) per year.
- Description: Leylandii is a well-known conifer that forms a dense, tall hedge quickly. It can grow up to 40 meters (131 feet) tall, making it suitable for large gardens. However, it requires regular pruning to keep it in check.
2. Pines (Pinus spp.)
- Growth Rate: Fast, up to 30-60 cm (12-24 inches) annually.
- Description: Aleppo, loblolly, and white pine are all fast-growing species that can reach impressive heights. While they offer great privacy, they need ample space and may not be suited for smaller gardens.
3. Laurels (Prunus laurocerasus)
- Growth Rate: Fast, up to 30-60 cm (12-24 inches) per year.
- Description: Laurels, especially the cherry laurel, are popular for their large, glossy leaves and quick growth. These evergreen shrubs can grow up to 5 meters (16 feet) tall and provide an excellent privacy screen year-round.
4. Holly (Ilex aquifolium)
- Growth Rate: Moderate to fast, around 30 cm (12 inches) annually.
- Description: Holly is a hardy, evergreen shrub with spiky leaves that adds security and privacy. Its dense growth makes it an effective privacy screen, and the red berries in winter offer extra aesthetic appeal.
5. Pyracantha (Pyracantha coccinea)
- Growth Rate: Fast, up to 1 meter (3 feet) per year.
- Description: Known as firethorn, pyracantha is an evergreen shrub that blooms vibrant orange berries in the fall. It’s perfect for hedges or standalone bushes, offering privacy and a stunning visual element with its colorful fruits.
6. Bamboo (Phyllostachys spp.)
- Growth Rate: Extremely fast, up to 1 meter (3 feet) per day.
- Description: Bamboo is one of the fastest-growing plants, making it ideal for quick privacy. It grows tall and narrow, creating an effective screen without taking up much ground space, making it great for smaller gardens.
7. Lilac (Syringa vulgaris)
- Growth Rate: Fast, up to 30 cm (12 inches) per year.
- Description: Lilacs are known for their fragrant, beautiful flowers in spring. They can grow into dense shrubs that provide privacy, and their vibrant blooms add color and a pleasant scent to your garden.
8. Forsythia (Forsythia spp.)
- Growth Rate: Fast, up to 1 meter (3 feet) per year.
- Description: Forsythia is a popular shrub known for its bright yellow flowers in early spring. It grows quickly and can form a sturdy hedge, adding both color and privacy to your garden while supporting beneficial insects.
9. Roses (Rambling varieties)
- Growth Rate: Fast, up to 1 meter (3 feet) per year.
- Description: Rambling roses are excellent for covering fences and gates quickly. They provide privacy while offering fragrant, beautiful blooms in the summer. Ideal for adding both coverage and charm to your garden.
10. Hydrangea (Hydrangea spp.)
- Growth Rate: Moderate to fast, about 60 cm (24 inches) annually.
- Description: Hydrangeas are versatile shrubs that work well for creating privacy. With both evergreen and deciduous varieties available, you can enjoy their showy, large blooms in summer and their dense foliage year-round.
These fast-growing shrubs offer a variety of textures, colors, and sizes, making it easy to find one that suits your garden’s needs. Whether you want a dense evergreen screen, floral privacy, or a low-maintenance hedge, these shrubs are perfect for quickly creating a more private and serene outdoor space.