Who says privacy can’t be pretty? The right shrubs can shield your yard from prying eyes, reduce wind, and add four-season beauty to your landscape. These six standout shrubs bring form and function to your garden — plus vibrant foliage, flowers, or winter interest you’ll enjoy every month of the year.
1. Green Giant Arborvitae
Fast-growing and deer-resistant, Green Giant arborvitae is an excellent option for privacy screens. It stays lush and green through winter and can reach heights of 20–30 feet.
2. Boxwood ‘Winter Gem’
This compact evergreen retains its color even through chilly weather. Use it as a hedge or border for a structured, low-maintenance look.
3. Doublefile Viburnum
This deciduous shrub makes a big impact with its spring flowers, layered branch structure, and striking autumn color. It grows wide, making it excellent for creating a natural screen.
4. Red Osier Dogwood
Its fiery red stems light up winter landscapes, and it thrives in a variety of conditions — even wet soil. Plant it in clusters for a bold winter statement.
5. Camellia japonica
With thick, evergreen leaves and elegant blooms in late winter or early spring, this shrub adds year-round charm and privacy at eye level.
6. Mahonia ‘Charity’
Spiky foliage, yellow winter flowers, and berries in spring — this shrub has it all. Mahonia thrives in part-shade and adds texture to woodland-style gardens.
Privacy doesn’t have to come from fences or walls. With the right combination of shrubs, you can create a lush, layered, and beautiful screen that works hard in every season.
