Last updated: June 29, 2025
Best Plants for Backyard Privacy
Why Backyard Privacy Matters
Picture this: You’re out back, coffee in hand, ready for a peaceful morning… and boom, your neighbor pops up from behind their fence like a groundhog in spring.
Been there?
That’s why I swear by privacy plants. They’re not just green shields—they’re living, breathing mood-setters that soften noise, block unwanted views, and turn any backyard into your personal retreat. Fences are fine, but plants? They’re artful, ever-changing, and way easier on the eyes.
I’ll walk you through my favorite picks—from trees to vines to grasses—and even throw in a few tips from my own garden mishaps (like that time I learned bamboo spreads… fast).
Let’s dig in.
What Makes a Plant Privacy-Worthy?
Not all plants are created equal when it comes to giving you space to breathe. The MVPs of backyard privacy usually check at least a few of these boxes:
- Tall enough to act like a leafy wall
- Dense enough to block curious glances
- Fast-growing, if you’re not the patient type (like me)
- Evergreen, for year-round coverage (or deciduous, if you’re after seasonal flair)
Quick pro tip: Match your plant choices to your climate, soil type, and how much sun your yard gets. Trust me—learning this the hard way involves a lot of dead leaves.
Tall, Dark, and Leafy: Best Privacy Trees
Trees are the big boys of backyard screening. They stand tall, grow wide, and do most of the heavy lifting when it comes to blocking views.
Evergreens: The Reliable Room Dividers
These guys don’t take a season off. If you’re looking for year-round coverage, evergreens are your best friends.
Emerald Green Arborvitae
Think of these as nature’s green curtains. They grow 12–20 feet tall, are low-maintenance, and love cool climates (zones 2–7). I planted a row along my fence three years ago—now it’s like I live inside a hedge maze.
Leyland Cypress
If patience isn’t your strong suit, meet your match. Leylands can grow 5 feet per year (yes, really) and reach up to 60 feet tall. Great for zones 6–10, but you’ll need to give them haircuts (read: pruning) so they don’t get unruly.
Oakland Holly
It’s like Christmas year-round with this one—rich green leaves, red berries, and a tidy pyramid shape. Birds love it. I once caught a whole robin family nesting in mine.
Deciduous Trees: Privacy with Personality
These drop their leaves in winter but wow you with color and texture the rest of the year.
Norway Maple
Not the fastest grower, but reliable and regal. Grows 40–50 feet tall and throws ample shade in summer. My uncle had one, and we used to build forts under its canopy.
Copper Beech
Stunning purple foliage that shifts to a bronzy copper—seriously, it’s a showstopper. Grows best in zones 4–7. If you’re into dramatic plants, this is your leading lady.
Shrubs: The Middle Managers of Privacy
Shrubs are the underrated heroes of landscaping. They’re versatile, manageable, and perfect for smaller yards or layered designs.
Evergreen Shrubs: The Reliable Fence Fillers
Boxwood
Neat freak? Boxwoods grow in compact mounds and are perfect for formal hedges. You can even trim them into shapes—my neighbor has one that looks like a rabbit.
Hick’s Yew
Tough and adaptable. Sun, shade, cold—this shrub doesn’t flinch. It gets big too—up to 15 feet tall!
Blue Arrow Juniper
Narrow, blue-green, and elegant. If you want height without bulk, this one’s got style and substance. Also: drought-tolerant = less babysitting.
Deciduous Shrubs: Flashy and Functional
Sparkler Viburnum
Pretty leaves, white flowers, berries for the birds—this shrub’s got layers. Works well in zones 3–8.
Forsythia
This one screams spring with bright yellow blooms. Quick grower too. You’ll spot it from across the block.
Vines That Climb and Cover
Don’t overlook vines—they’re perfect for fences, trellises, and bare walls that need a little love (and cover).
Climbing Hydrangea
A slow start, but worth the wait. This vine smells amazing, grows up to 60 feet, and brings serious cottage-garden vibes.
Evergreen Clematis
Lush, glossy leaves and stunning flowers—plus, it doesn’t go bald in winter. Good for zones 7–9.
Carolina Jessamine
Golden blooms that light up a trellis like string lights. Just a heads-up—it’s toxic if eaten, so maybe skip it if you’ve got curious pets.
PSA: Please steer clear of English Ivy. It looks cute at first, then invades your yard like it owns the place. Trust me, I’m still pulling it out.
Grasses & Bamboo: Privacy with a Twist
These bring movement, texture, and a bit of that spa-retreat energy.
Maiden Grass
Elegant, flowy, and tall (up to 12 feet!). It sways in the wind like it’s dancing to lo-fi music. Also, super low maintenance.
Black Bamboo
Grows fast and looks sleek. But it can spread like wildfire, so use a container or root barrier unless you’re into jungle chic.
Match Plants to Your Climate
Don’t just fall for looks—pick plants that’ll actually survive in your zip code.
- Cold North (Zones 3–5): Go for Emerald Green Arborvitae, Norway Maple, or Hick’s Yew.
- Warm South (Zones 7–10): Try Cleyera, Tea Olive, or Leyland Cypress.
- Dry West: Stick with drought-lovers like Podocarpus and Blue Arrow Juniper.
Not sure your zone? Check out the USDA Plant Hardiness Map.
Soil, Sun, and TLC: Don’t Skip These Basics
Think of this like matchmaking for your plants. You’ve got to give them the right conditions to thrive.
- Test the soil: A cheap kit will do. You want loamy, well-drained soil for most privacy plants.
- Know the sunlight:
- Full sun → Arborvitae, Junipers
- Partial shade → Hydrangea, Viburnum
- Full shade → Cleyera, Aucuba
Planting & Caring: The Nitty-Gritty
Once you’ve got your green squad picked out, here’s how to treat them right:
- Dig smart: Holes twice as wide as the root ball, and just as deep.
- Water deeply: Especially that first year. It’s like babying a newborn—worth it.
- Prune yearly: Late winter or early spring works best.
- Feed ‘em: A balanced fertilizer in spring gives them a nice energy boost.
Designing a Gorgeous Privacy Screen
Want your yard to look intentional (not like you randomly threw plants in)? Follow these:
- Layout: Straight rows for that formal estate vibe. Staggered rows for a relaxed, natural look.
- Spacing: Respect the mature size—don’t crowd!
- Layering: Combine trees, shrubs, and low plants for visual depth.
No Time? Go Low-Maintenance.
Here are a few low-drama options:
- Yaupon Holly – Handles drought like a champ.
- Fringe Flower – Deer? What deer?
- Emerald Green Arborvitae – Barely needs you once it settles in.
Fast-Track to Privacy: Quick Growers
If you’re feeling impatient (been there), plant these speedsters:
- Green Giant Arborvitae – Up to 5 feet a year!
- Leyland Cypress – Also speedy and majestic.
- Bougainvillea – Vivid blooms and fast growth in warm zones.
Tiny Yard? No Problem.
Big privacy in a small package:
- Dwarf Holly (Magical Amore) – Cute name, cuter plant.
- Baby Giant Arborvitae – Tall-ish, but space-savvy.
- Clematis in containers – Add a trellis and you’re golden.
Bonus: Invite the Birds and Bees
Some privacy plants pull double duty as wildlife magnets.
- Viburnum – Berries galore = bird party.
- Butterfly Bush – Clue’s in the name.
- Elderberry – Birds love these, and so do jam-makers.
What Not to Do
Let me save you a few headaches:
- ❌ Don’t plant invasives (looking at you, English Ivy).
- ❌ Don’t ignore your zone.
- ❌ Don’t skip maintenance—plants need love too.
Final Thoughts: Your Green, Private Getaway Awaits
There’s something so satisfying about creating your own slice of paradise. Whether you’re planting a full green wall or just a cozy corner hideaway, the right plants can make it happen.
Start with a few, give them care, and watch your backyard transform—not just into a private space, but into a place you’ll genuinely love to be.
Ready to plant your privacy? Let me know how it goes—or send me a pic of your new leafy fortress!
FAQ
How do I pick the best plants for backyard privacy?
Look at your climate, soil, and sunlight. Evergreens like Arborvitae give year-round privacy, while deciduous plants add seasonal charm.
What’s the fastest way to get privacy?
Green Giant Arborvitae and Leyland Cypress grow 3-5 feet a year, making them top picks for quick screens.
Can I use plants in a small yard?
Absolutely! Dwarf Holly or container-grown vines like Clematis are perfect for tight spaces.
How do I keep my privacy plants healthy?
Water regularly in the first year, prune annually, and fertilize in spring to keep them thriving.
Do any privacy plants attract wildlife?
Yes! Viburnum and Butterfly Bush bring in birds and pollinators, making your yard a lively ecosystem.