Tired of staring at that boring old fence—or worse, your neighbor’s backyard? A living fence might be the upgrade your space needs. Shrubs are a great way to add privacy, reduce noise, and bring year-round greenery to your garden, all while looking way better than plain wood or vinyl.
Whether you want something dense and fast-growing or tall and architectural, there’s a shrub for every style. Here are 20 stunning shrubs that make the perfect living fence—plus 16 more to boost your backyard design and give your space that wow factor.
1. Forsythia
You know spring has arrived when a certain shrub explodes with a riot of yellow blossoms. Forsythia is an early bloomer that brings sunshine to any fence line. It’s robust, grows rapidly, and is perfect for those who want a quick burst of color.
Plant this beauty where it can soak up the sun, and it will reward you with dense growth and vibrant flowers. Forsythia also offers easy maintenance; just trim it after flowering to keep its shape. A bonus: it attracts butterflies, adding more life to your garden.
2. Boxwood
Think of a shrub that symbolizes timeless elegance and you’ll find one that fits the bill. Boxwood is the ultimate choice for a formal, structured living fence. Its dense, evergreen foliage can be pruned into any shape, making it ideal for topiary enthusiasts.
Boxwood thrives in well-drained soil and partial shade. Although slow-growing, its durability and versatility are worth the wait. Regular trimming will ensure it maintains its desired form. A helpful tip: plant them close together for a fuller look.
3. Rose of Sharon
Flower lovers, here’s a shrub that will steal your heart. Rose of Sharon is admired for its summer-long display of large, colorful blooms that attract hummingbirds and bees. This shrub thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, growing into a lush, flowering fence.
Regular pruning helps maintain its shape and encourages more blooms. If you’re keen on privacy, plant them closely for a dense barrier. Plus, these shrubs are hardy and can withstand urban pollution.
4. Nandina
Ever seen a shrub that looks like a kaleidoscope of colors? Nandina, or heavenly bamboo, offers a stunning mix of green, red, and purple foliage, topped with red berries. This low-maintenance shrub thrives in sun or shade, making it versatile for various garden settings.
Nandina provides year-round interest with its constantly changing appearance. To encourage bushy growth, prune periodically. It’s drought-tolerant, making it a great choice for those with busy schedules.
5. Privet
Looking for a fast-growing shrub that screams privacy? Privet is your go-to choice. Known for its dense, leafy barrier, it’s perfect for creating a secluded retreat. Plant it in well-drained soil and under full sun or partial shade.
It requires regular trimming but is otherwise easy to care for, making it a popular pick for hedges. A small tip: use a slow-release fertilizer to boost growth and keep it lush throughout the seasons.
6. Lilac
Step into a garden filled with the sweet scent of flowers and you’re likely near this fragrant shrub. Lilac offers a delightful aroma and beautiful purple, pink, or white blooms. Perfect for a seasonal floral fence, it thrives in full sun and well-drained soil.
Regular pruning after flowering encourages new growth and ensures a tidy appearance. To enjoy its aroma even indoors, cut a few blooming branches and place them in a vase. It’s an olfactory delight!
7. Holly
Add some sparkle to your garden year-round with a shrub that knows how to stand out. Holly offers glossy leaves and vibrant red berries that are particularly striking in winter.
This evergreen beauty thrives in full sun to partial shade and adapts well to different soil types. Prune in spring to maintain its shape and encourage berry production. Warning: those berries are toxic if ingested, so keep pets and children away.
8. Hydrangea
Dream of having a fence that looks like a floral masterpiece? Hydrangeas are your answer, with enormous mophead blooms that come in shades of blue, pink, and white. They thrive in rich, moist soil and prefer morning sun with afternoon shade.
Regular watering and pruning will keep them looking their best. A fun fact: you can change their bloom color by altering soil pH. Acidic soil yields blue blooms, while alkaline soil gives you pink. Science meets beauty!
9. Butterfly Bush
Welcome a flurry of butterflies with a shrub that’s as attractive to pollinators as it is to the eye. The Butterfly Bush flaunts impressive clusters of fragrant flowers. Planted in full sun, this shrub grows rapidly and can reach impressive heights, making it ideal for a living fence.
Prune annually to encourage denser growth. It’s a feast for butterflies, so place it where you can enjoy the fluttering visitors. Just watch out for its invasive tendencies in some areas.
10. Spirea
Consider a shrub that adds a fluffy touch to your garden landscape. Spirea, known for its masses of tiny flowers, is a charming choice for a flowering fence. It’s hardy and grows well in most soils with full sun exposure.
Minimal care is required beyond regular watering and occasional pruning. For a continuous bloom, deadhead spent flowers. This shrub not only beautifies your garden, but also supports pollinators like bees and butterflies.
11. Azalea
Imagine a spring garden bursting with color, and you’ll find this shrub at the heart of it. Azalea is celebrated for its vibrant blooms in shades of pink, red, or white. Ideal for partial shade and acidic soil, it’s perfect for woodland gardens.
Regular pruning after flowering will help maintain a compact shape. Azaleas enjoy consistent moisture, so mulching can help retain soil moisture. A must-have for any garden needing a splash of color.
12. Juniper
For those who love low-maintenance, drought-tolerant greenery, here’s a shrub that fits the bill. Juniper offers evergreen foliage and a hardy disposition. Thriving in full sun and well-drained soil, it’s perfect for less-than-ideal conditions.
Its dense growth can serve as a natural privacy screen. While it requires little care, occasional pruning will keep it looking neat. Plus, its aromatic foliage adds an extra sensory layer to your garden.
13. Red Tip Photinia
Picture a shrub that brings a splash of color with its new growth. Red Tip Photinia delights with vibrant red leaves that mature to dark green. This versatile shrub thrives in full sun or partial shade and is ideal for creating a colorful hedge.
Regular pruning encourages more red growth at the tips. While it’s generally low-maintenance, watch for common pests like aphids. A little vigilance goes a long way in keeping it healthy and vibrant.
14. Weigela
Envision a shrub that turns heads with its profusion of trumpet-shaped flowers. Weigela is a showstopper in any garden, offering vibrant blooms that attract hummingbirds. This shrub thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, growing into an attractive, flowering fence.
Minimal pruning is needed, just trim after flowering to maintain shape. It’s a great choice for those looking to add a splash of color and attract wildlife to their gardens. A must-have for cottage-style landscapes.
15. Barberry
Consider a shrub that doubles as a vibrant security measure. Barberry offers colorful foliage and thorny branches that deter unwanted visitors. Thriving in full sun or partial shade, it requires minimal care, making it perfect for busy gardeners.
Its dense, spiky growth forms a nearly impenetrable barrier. Barberry is also drought-tolerant, adding to its list of low-maintenance features. Just be mindful of its thorns when planting and trimming.
16. Cherry Laurel
Imagine a shrub that brings elegance and hardiness together. Cherry Laurel offers glossy, evergreen leaves and fragrant white flowers in spring. It thrives in full sun to shade and adapts well to different soil types, making it versatile for various garden settings.
Regular pruning keeps it looking tidy and lush. For the best privacy screen, plant them closely. These shrubs are also great for noise reduction, adding extra functionality.
17. Burning Bush
Think of a shrub that turns fiery red in fall, and you’ll have one in mind. The Burning Bush is renowned for its vibrant autumn foliage that adds drama to any landscape. It’s easy to grow, thriving in full sun or partial shade, and adapts to various soil conditions.
Regular pruning helps maintain its compact form. A word of caution: it’s considered invasive in some areas, so check local guidelines before planting. Its beauty comes with responsibility.
18. Viburnum
Picture a shrub that offers beauty in every season. Viburnum is a versatile choice, known for its spring flowers, summer berries, and fall foliage. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil.
Minimal pruning keeps it looking its best, and it can grow into a dense, attractive fence. Viburnum is also beloved by wildlife, supporting birds and pollinators. It’s a win-win for any garden looking to combine aesthetics and ecology.
19. Camellia
Envision a shrub that adds elegance with its glossy, dark green leaves and stunning blooms. Camellia flowers in the cool seasons, bringing color when most plants are dormant. It thrives in partial shade and acidic soil, ideal for woodland gardens.
Regular watering and mulching help maintain its health. Camellias are slow-growing, so patience is key. Their beauty in bloom makes them worth the wait, adding a touch of sophistication to any garden.
20. Dwarf Alberta Spruce
Consider a shrub that offers a compact and formal appearance. The Dwarf Alberta Spruce is perfect for those who love neat, conical shapes. Thriving in full sun and well-drained soil, it’s ideal for small gardens or tight spaces.
Its slow growth makes it low-maintenance, requiring little pruning. While it provides year-round greenery, it’s also susceptible to spider mites. Regular inspection and watering can keep it healthy and vibrant.
21. Mock Orange
Imagine walking through a garden filled with the scent of orange blossoms. Mock Orange offers a delightful fragrance and charming white flowers. This shrub thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers well-drained soil.
Prune after flowering to maintain its shape and encourage new growth. A tip for flower lovers: plant it near a window or walkway to enjoy its scent indoors or as you pass by. It’s a sensory delight for any garden.
22. Pyracantha
For a shrub that combines beauty and defense, look no further. Pyracantha is known for its vibrant berries and thorny branches, adding security and color. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, making it low-maintenance.
Regular pruning helps maintain its shape and encourages berry production. Be cautious of its thorns when planting and trimming. Its dual purpose makes it a smart choice for those looking to beautify and protect their garden.
23. Cleyera
Consider a shrub that brings year-round beauty and easy care. Cleyera offers glossy leaves and striking red new growth that stands out. This evergreen shrub thrives in full sun to partial shade and adapts to various soil types.
Minimal pruning is needed, making it low-maintenance. For a lush privacy screen, plant them closely. Cleyera’s dense growth and appealing foliage make it a popular choice for many gardeners.
24. Smoke Bush
Imagine a shrub that adds drama to your garden landscape. The Smoke Bush is known for its large, purplish leaves and unique, smoke-like flowers. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, making it relatively easy to grow.
Regular pruning can help maintain its shape and encourage more blooms. This shrub’s striking appearance makes it a focal point in any garden. It’s a bold choice for those looking to add a touch of the extraordinary.
25. Oleander
Envision a shrub that brings a touch of the tropics with its vibrant flowers. Oleander is a sun-loving shrub that adds color to any garden. Thriving in full sun and well-drained soil, it’s perfect for creating a colorful hedge.
Regular pruning helps maintain its shape and encourage more blooms. A caution: Oleander is toxic if ingested, so ensure it’s out of reach of pets and children. Its beauty comes with a warning label.
26. Arborvitae
For those seeking a towering evergreen fence, this tree-like shrub fits the bill. Arborvitae offers dense foliage and a stately appearance. Thriving in full sun and well-drained soil, it’s perfect for creating a tall privacy screen.
Minimal pruning is required, making it low-maintenance. While it’s hardy, regular watering in dry spells keeps it lush and green. Arborvitae provides year-round beauty and privacy for spacious gardens.
27. Fothergilla
Picture a shrub that offers seasonal beauty and unique blooms. Fothergilla is known for its bottlebrush flowers and vibrant fall foliage. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil.
Minimal pruning is needed, making it low-maintenance and easy to care for. Fothergilla is a delightful addition to any garden, offering interest throughout the seasons. It’s a choice that combines beauty with ease.
28. Escallonia
Think of a shrub that thrives in coastal conditions and you’ll find one to fit the description. Escallonia offers glossy leaves and clusters of pink flowers. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, making it ideal for coastal gardens.
Regular pruning helps maintain its shape and encourages more blooms. Escallonia is also salt-tolerant, a bonus for seaside locations. It’s a perfect choice for gardeners looking to beautify coastal landscapes.
29. Euonymus
Imagine a shrub that adds variety with its colorful foliage. Euonymus is known for its variegated leaves and year-round interest. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and adapts well to different soil types.
Minimal pruning is needed, making it easy to maintain. Euonymus offers a splash of color and texture to any garden, making it a popular choice for decorative fences. It’s a versatile option for creative gardeners.
30. Japanese Maple
Envision a shrub that stands out with its vibrant red foliage. Japanese Maple is renowned for its graceful form and striking leaves. It prefers partial shade and well-drained soil, making it ideal for sheltered garden spots.
Regular pruning can enhance its shape and beauty. While it demands some care, its stunning appearance is worth the effort. Japanese Maple adds a touch of elegance and color to any garden fence.
31. Abelia
For a shrub that offers a subtle touch of beauty, look no further. Abelia is known for its glossy leaves and delicate, white flowers. It thrives in full sun to partial shade, adapting well to different soil types.
Minimal pruning is needed to maintain its tidy form. Abelia attracts butterflies, adding life to your garden. It’s a wonderful choice for those seeking a low-maintenance yet visually pleasing fence.
32. Rhododendron
Consider a shrub that turns heads with its large, spectacular blooms. Rhododendron is a classic choice for a floral fence, offering vibrant colors in spring. Preferring partial shade and acidic soil, it’s ideal for woodland gardens.
Regular pruning helps maintain its shape and encourages new growth. For a dazzling display, plant them in groups. Their blooms bring a burst of color that enhances any garden setting.
33. Mahonia
Imagine a shrub that adds texture and color even in the shadiest spots. Mahonia offers spiky leaves and bright yellow flowers that brighten up any garden. Thriving in partial to full shade, it’s perfect for less sunny areas.
Minimal pruning keeps it looking its best, making it low-maintenance. This shrub’s unique appearance makes it a standout choice for creative gardeners. It’s a versatile option for adding interest to shaded spaces.
34. Pittosporum
Envision a shrub that combines beauty and toughness. Pittosporum is known for its variegated leaves and fragrant white flowers. It thrives in full sun to partial shade, adapting well to various soil types.
Minimal pruning is needed to maintain its shape and health. Pittosporum is often used in hedges, offering a lush, decorative fence option. It’s a resilient choice for those looking to combine aesthetics with durability.
35. Yew
Picture a shrub that exudes timeless elegance and resilience. Yew is a classic choice for formal hedges and fences, known for its dense, dark green foliage. Thriving in full sun or shade, it adapts well to various conditions.
Regular pruning helps maintain its shape and encourages healthy growth. Yew’s longevity and beauty make it a favorite for traditional garden designs. It’s a sound investment for anyone seeking a classic look.
36. Summersweet
Imagine a shrub that perfumes your garden with its sweet scent. Summersweet is known for its fragrant, white flowers that bloom in late summer. Thriving in full sun to partial shade, it’s an excellent choice for adding beauty and aroma to any garden.
Minimal pruning and regular watering are all it needs to thrive. Summersweet attracts pollinators, making it a beneficial addition to eco-friendly gardens. It’s a fragrant and functional choice for any landscape.