Jerusalem Artichokes
When my neighbors’ unconventional outdoor decor became a regular occurrence, we decided to take matters into our own hands by planting some privacy-enhancing species. One of the most effective and multi-purpose plants I’ve found is the Jerusalem artichoke (Helianthus tuberosus). Its edible tubers are not only nutritious but also perennial, making them a sustainable choice for any garden. Furthermore, the plant’s 10-foot-tall canes are perfect for creating structures like bean lattices.
What’s more, they grow incredibly fast and form a natural fence. As an added benefit, once they bloom, they can reach up to 12 feet in height, providing dense foliage that effectively blocks out unwanted views. Unlike many members of the sunflower family, Jerusalem artichokes are hardy plants that thrive in USDA Hardiness Zones 3-10. They’ll continue to spread and come back year after year, making them an excellent choice for any garden looking to maintain its privacy.
Bamboo
Bamboo, a type of Bambusa spp., can be an effective means of achieving privacy, particularly in regions where its impressive growth habits are conducive. Standard bamboo varieties typically reach heights of around 20 feet, while giant species can soar up to nearly 100 feet in ideal conditions. This remarkable plant’s ability to grow tall and spread rapidly makes it a potent tool for creating barriers against prying eyes and unwanted intruders.
However, the reality is that growing this invasive grass in many areas is strictly prohibited. The popular phrase ‘you don’t grow bamboo in your yard, you grow it in the county’ serves as a reminder of its notorious propensity to spread and thrive, becoming increasingly difficult to eradicate without chemical intervention.
Mongolian Giant Sunflowers
When it comes to adding a pop of color and creating natural barriers on your property, sunflowers are an excellent choice. Their tall stature and sprawling foliage make them one of the best plants for privacy. If you’re looking for some showstoppers, I highly recommend growing Mongolian giant sunflowers (Helianthus annuus ‘Mongolian Giant’). These stunning flowers can reach heights of up to 15 feet, with flower heads spanning a foot in diameter.
But their beauty isn’t limited to aesthetics – the seeds are also edible and about an inch long, making them a great food source. Whether you’re looking for privacy or a unique addition to your garden, sunflowers are a great option.
Purple Hopseed
If you’re seeking plants that harmonize beauty with functionality for privacy purposes, consider the Dodonaea viscosa ‘Purpurea’ species. Native to certain regions of Africa and Australia, this stunning plant boasts breathtaking purple-burgundy foliage. Reaching heights of up to 14 feet tall, it’s an ideal choice for creating a natural barrier or even growing on balconies and perimeters.
The versatility of hopseeds allows you to train their branches sideways to create a unique fencing effect, making them a fantastic option for those looking to add both aesthetics and functionality to their outdoor spaces.
Hops
The hemp family’s prized member, Humulus lupulus, is often misunderstood as being related to hopseed bush. In reality, it’s a vigorous climbing herbaceous perennial that thrives in zones 4-9. With the ability to grow up to 20 feet tall in just one summer, hops are an impressive sight. For those who enjoy brewing their own beer or exploring herbal remedies, incorporating Humulus lupulus into your landscape design can be a great choice.
The versatility of this plant is reminiscent of other multi-purpose vines that offer a range of benefits.
Climbing Beans and Peas
As an avid enthusiast of multi-purpose plants, it’s only natural I’d want to highlight the incredible versatility of pole beans and peas (Fabaceae sp.). These legumes not only add a touch of elegance to any outdoor space but also provide a functional purpose. Whether you’re seeking to create a cozy retreat or a private sanctuary, climbing legumes are an excellent choice.
To get started, simply construct simple lattices using bamboo or willow, or opt for more substantial trellising depending on your needs. Personally, I’m fond of repurposing wire cattle fence panels as trellises. By bending them into tunnels or connecting them to form any desired shape, you can create a unique outdoor feature that’s both functional and visually appealing.
Once you’ve chosen your favorite climbing pea or bean varieties and planted them, you’ll be enjoying the lush foliage of a living trellis in just a few weeks. And before long, you’ll be harvesting fresh green beans or crunchy peas with every passing day.
Giant Miscanthus
The Pacific Island Silvergrass (Miscanthus floridulus) is a hardy perennial species that thrives in zones 5a to 9b. Be cautious when introducing this plant to your garden, as it can be challenging to eradicate once established. Reaching heights of up to 12 feet and widths of 4-5 feet, provide ample space between plantings to accommodate its expansive growth. When handling the plant, it’s essential to wear gloves due to the sharp edges on its leaves.
Despite its finicky nature, the Pacific Island Silvergrass excels in creating thick privacy screens and is unappealing to deer and other herbivores, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a low-maintenance solution.
Leyland Cypress
For those living in temperate zones (6 through 9) with ample space and seeking solitude, Leyland cypresses (Cupressus × leylandii) can be an ideal choice for creating privacy screens. These fast-growing trees have the ability to reach remarkable heights of up to 30 feet within a decade, with some specimens exceeding even that mark – the tallest recorded one stands at over 130 feet and still counting.
However, this rapid growth may pose concerns regarding neighborly disputes if the resulting canopy begins to overshadow nearby yards. If you possess a large property and desire significant privacy within your own yard, Leyland cypress cultivation might be a suitable option. When selecting a location for these plants, be mindful of lightfall to ensure they don’t inadvertently shade out adjacent vegetable gardens in the future.
White Pine
Native to Northern and Eastern North America, the stately evergreen (Pinus strobus) boasts a unique ability to flourish in sandy soils. Its impressive growth rate makes it an excellent choice for creating a private perimeter hedge. Initially, these trees grow slowly, but once established, they can leap up to 3 feet per year over the next quarter century. At maturity, they typically reach around 140 feet tall, although exceptional conditions can allow them to soar as high as 200 feet.
To thrive, Pinus strobus requires a humid environment and can tolerate zones 3 through 8.
“Skyrocket” Juniper
When it comes to cooler climates and coniferous trees, ‘Skyrocket’ juniper (Juniperus scopulorum ‘Skyrocket’) is an excellent choice for zones 5 through 9. This fast-growing species can reach heights of 16 to 20 feet within just a few years, making it an ideal option for creating a natural privacy hedge. As an added benefit, the tree produces edible juniper berries that can be used to flavor food or transformed into gin.
However, it’s essential to note that some individuals may experience severe reactions to juniper, including contact dermatitis and eczema, as well as asthma attacks triggered by its pollen. If you’re allergic to cedar, you’re likely to have similar sensitivities to juniper. As a result, it’s crucial to exercise caution or avoid planting this species altogether if you’re unsure of your allergies.
American Holly
When seeking privacy plants that combine aesthetics with screening capabilities, American holly (Ilex opaca) is an excellent choice. These fast-growing evergreen trees are hardy in zones 4 to 9, depending on the specific cultivar. They can reach towering heights of up to 100 feet and spread approximately 60 feet wide, boasting lustrous, dark green leaves and vibrant red berries. As a bonus, holly hedging serves as an effective deterrent against unwanted visitors.
The leaves’ sharp tips render them inhospitable to stray animals or curious neighbors, effectively keeping them at bay. For a secure barrier against intruders of all kinds, plant a thick American holly hedge – it’s sure to keep them out.
Sugar Cane
If you’re a fan of sweet treats, consider cultivating sugar cane (Saccharum officinarum) around your property. This versatile plant thrives in zones 8 through 11, but can also be grown as an annual in other regions. As an annual, it will reach approximately 8 feet tall during its growing season, making it a great natural barrier to keep pesky cottagers and curious goats out of your prized spinach patch.
In hotter climates, however, sugar cane plants can grow up to 20 feet tall and return year after year, much like bamboo. As an added bonus, you can harvest chunks from the plant to snack on or process into homemade sugar – a sweet reward for your gardening efforts.
Privacy Palm Trees
The Areca palm’s moniker is a clear indication of its purpose: providing privacy as a screening plant. Nicknamed ‘privacy palms,’ Dypsis lutescens trees are native to Madagascar but have been naturalized across South America, the Caribbean, and southern US states. If you reside in a hot climate, you can grow them outdoors or cultivate them indoors near sunny windows to maintain your seclusion from prying eyes.
Arroyo willow
Arroyo willow (Salix lasiolepis) is well-suited for regions with dry climates and moderate temperatures, distinguishing itself from its cousin the weeping willow by its more compact growth habit. Native to the Western and Southwestern United States, this cultivar thrives in USDA zones 5 through 10, reaching a mature height of approximately 35 feet and a width of about 25 feet.
Notably, it grows at a moderate pace of around 3 feet per year, allowing for quick establishment when planted from one- or two-year-old trees. As arroyo willow prefers consistent moisture levels, it is an ideal choice for creating a natural privacy screen in areas with access to water or regular irrigation.
Yew
Taxus spp., commonly known as yews, are renowned for their remarkable longevity and dependability, making them a popular choice in temperate climates. With the ability to reach heights ranging from four to 60 feet, depending on the cultivar and species, these plants can form an imposing barrier that provides unparalleled privacy. However, it’s essential to exercise caution when working with yews, as certain parts of the plant are notoriously toxic.
Arborvitae
Thuja species conifers have long been a popular choice for establishing privacy screens, and it’s easy to see why. Native to North America, these conifers pose no risk of becoming invasive in your garden. What’s more, they’re adept at forming dense hedges that provide effective concealment. But what really sets them apart is their impressive tolerance for cold temperatures – some species can even thrive in conditions as harsh as USDA Hardiness Zone 2!
Azalea and Rhododendron
The Rhododendron genus is home to two species that thrive in environments with acidic soil conditions, showcasing breathtaking displays of flowers when in bloom. Interestingly, these plants are adaptable to full shade, where they can retain their compact shape while still producing beautiful blooms.