17 Fast-Growing Shrubs

Introduction to Fast-Growing Shrubs

Fast-growing shrubs are ideal for those who want to quickly transform their landscape. Whether you’re looking to create privacy screens, add greenery to empty spaces, or enhance your garden’s aesthetic appeal, these shrubs are perfect solutions. When choosing fast-growing shrubs, it’s essential to consider factors like growing conditions, maintenance needs, plant hardiness, light requirements, and watering needs.

Best Fast-Growing Shrubs to Grow

1. Arborvitae (Thuja spp.)

Arborvitae is a versatile coniferous evergreen that comes in various shapes and sizes, making it suitable for almost any landscape need. It can grow as a slender pyramidal or low mounding habit, with a height ranging from 2 to 70 feet tall and a spread of 2 to 25 feet wide. Arborvitae grows at different rates depending on the variety, with some varieties growing several inches to 3 to 5 feet per year.

Upright columnar or pyramidal varieties like North Pole^®, Sting^®, and ‘Emerald Green’ are excellent for narrow spaces or as hedging and screening plants.

2. Beautyberry (Callicarpa spp.)

Beautyberry is a hardy deciduous shrub that provides late-season interest in the landscape. It features an elegant growth habit, showy purple berries, and golden fall color. Beautyberry grows to be about 3 to 6 feet tall and wide, making it ideal for smaller spaces or as privacy screening to divide garden areas. Its growth rate is similar to Arborvitae, with several inches to 3 to 5 feet per year.

Other Notable Fast-Growing Shrubs

While the article focuses on Arborvitae and Beautyberry, other fast-growing shrubs include:

• Forsythia (Forsythia spp.): Known for vibrant yellow flowers in early spring.
• Privet (Ligustrum spp.): Offers dense foliage and is commonly used for hedges.
• Leyland Cypress (Cupressocyparis leylandii): A popular choice for privacy screens due to its rapid growth.
• Burning Bush (Euonymus alatus): Features fiery red foliage in autumn.

Factors to Consider When Planting Fast-Growing Shrubs

When incorporating fast-growing shrubs into your landscape, consider the following factors:

• Plant Hardiness Zone: Ensure the shrub is suitable for your local climate.
• Light Requirements: Some shrubs require full sun, while others prefer partial shade.
• Watering Needs: Regular watering is crucial for establishing roots and promoting healthy growth.
• Maintenance: Regular pruning may be necessary to maintain the desired shape and encourage healthy growth.

Advantages of Fast-Growing Shrubs

Fast-growing shrubs offer several advantages for gardeners:

• Quick Transformation: They can quickly fill in gaps and provide privacy.
• Aesthetic Appeal: Many fast-growing shrubs offer vibrant colors, flowers, or foliage that enhance the landscape’s beauty.
• Environmental Benefits: They can help improve air quality and provide habitats for wildlife.

Challenges and Considerations

While fast-growing shrubs are beneficial, there are challenges to consider:

• Aggressive Growth: Some shrubs can become invasive if not properly managed.
• Environmental Impact: Ensure shrubs are not harming local ecosystems.
• Maintenance Requirements: Regular pruning and care are necessary to maintain their appearance and health.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is considered a fast-growing shrub?

A: A fast-growing shrub is one that adds between 2 feet to more than 3 feet of growth per year.

Q: What are the best fast-growing shrubs for privacy?

A: Shrubs like Leyland Cypress and Privet are popular for creating privacy screens due to their rapid growth and dense foliage.

Q: How often should I water fast-growing shrubs?

A: Water regularly, especially during the first year after planting, to ensure establishment and healthy growth.

Author

Anjali Sayee

 

Anjali is an Associate Editor at StyleCraze with 7 years of experience specializing in hairstyles, hair care, and skin care. She has authored over 300 articles and offers expert advice on hair styling techniques, effective skin care routines, and tips for maintaining healthy hair and skin.

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