What Is a Good Evergreen Tree or Tall Shrub for a Privacy Fence?

Homeowners often choose evergreen trees or shrubs to plant as a screen or privacy fence. Many evergreens grow tall, are dense and require little pruning or maintenance. Choosing a fast growing, vigorous evergreen is essential when using trees and shrubs for privacy.

The Japanese yew is a member of the Taxaceae family that typically grows to heights of 25 feet. This is commonly used as a small tree or a large shrub and it makes an excellent privacy screen. The Japanese yew closely resembles the Canada yew and it is known for the bright red fruit it bears. Japanese yew prefers moist, well-drained soils and it thrives in areas of full sun or partial shade. While generally healthy, the Japanese yew is susceptible to a fungal disease caused by the boytryosphaerid fungus. Homeowners who have pets should be aware that this tree can cause symptoms of plant poisoning in animals that ingest it.

Homeowners who wish to place a large tree in their yards for privacy, should consider the Norway spruce. This is a large tree, often reaching heights of 40 to 60 feet and should be placed in yards with plenty of room for growth. The Norway Spruce prefers full sun and moist well-drained, slightly acidic soils. Certain fungal diseases such as Gray mold often affects the Norway spruce and it can suffer from insect infestations, as well. The Gypsy moth, pine needle scale, the spruce spider mite and the Northern pine weevil all attack Norway Spruce.

The common boxwood is an evergreen shrub that is often planted as a screen or hedge. This shrub reaches heights of 15 to 20 feet and a width of 15 to 20 feet. Boxwoods produce lush green leaves and grow best in areas of full sun to partial shade. Placing mulch at the base of the shrub, helps keep its roots cool and moist. Boxwoods are susceptible to winter injury and must be protected from drying winter winds. Insects such as the boxwood leafminer and the two spotted spider mite often attack this shrub. Boxwoods are also susceptible to decay and wood rotting diseases.

The Ligustrum is also known as the Privet and is commonly used as a hedge or screen. The Ligustrum is a rapidly growing tree that is adaptable to most areas and weather conditions. This tree is well-suited for use as a hedge or screen because of its dense, thick foliage. Ligustrums require regular pruning to maintain their desired size and shape. Pests such as the spider mite, aphids, scales and whiteflies are all attracted to the Ligustrum. Root rot and leaf spot diseases can attack this tree, as well.