The Power of Screening Shrubs: Privacy, Beauty & Function in the Landscape

Written By Travis Bradley

Whether you’re looking to block an unwanted view, create a cozy backyard retreat, or add year-round greenery to your property, screening shrubs are one of the most effective and attractive solutions. Unlike fences, shrubs grow, breathe, soften the landscape, and add natural beauty while delivering durable privacy. If you’re seeking a way to create boundaries without sacrificing style, here’s why screening shrubs deserve a place in your landscape.

What Are Screening Shrubs?

Screening shrubs are medium to tall shrubs (6’-20’) chosen for their ability to create dense, layered foliage that blocks visibility. Unlike ornamental shrubs that are selected mainly for color or bloom, these plants are valued for:

  • Fast growth

  • Thick foliage

  • Height and width

  • Year-round texture or greenery

  • Low maintenance once established

From evergreen hedges to flowering privacy screens, screening shrubs can be tailored to each property’s unique needs.

Natural, Beauty-First Privacy

Shrubs provide a softer, more welcoming look compared to solid fences. They blend seamlessly into the landscape and create a peaceful, garden-like atmosphere.

Wind, Noise & Dust Protection

Dense foliage helps reduce wind exposure, buffer sound from busy roads, and filter dust—improving comfort and air quality around outdoor living spaces.

Property Value & Curb Appeal

A well-designed hedge or screen elevates the visual appeal of your home. Mature, healthy shrubs add a sense of permanence, structure, and investment to your landscape.

Habitat for Birds & Pollinators

Shrubs offer food, shelter, and nesting opportunities. Species with berries, flowers, or year-round structure become instant wildlife magnets.

Top Qualities to Look For in Screening Shrubs

Shrubs can be shaped, staggered, layered, or left natural. You can grow them tall, keep them compact, or use them to carve out garden rooms and private nooks. When choosing shrubs for privacy, look for varieties that offer:

  • Evergreen foliage (for year-round screening)

  • Fast to moderate growth

  • Dense branching

  • Adaptability to your local climate

  • Low water requirements (if applicable)

  • Pest and disease resistance

Also consider the maturity size. A shrub that maxes out at 6 feet won’t meet your privacy needs if your neighbor’s second-story window looks directly into your backyard.

Popular Types of Screening Shrubs

Here at Moonlight Landscapes we commonly use the following species:

Evergreen Shrubs

  • Laurel

  • Pittosporum

  • Viburnum

  • Coffeeberry

  • Podocarpus

  • Camelia (shade)

Design Tips for Effective Screening

1. Stagger plants for a fuller look

Planting shrubs in a zig-zag pattern creates depth and faster coverage.

2. Combine multiple species

Mix evergreen anchors with seasonal bloomers for a vibrant, layered screen.

3. Give shrubs room to grow

Planting too close reduces airflow and leads to disease problems later.

4. Don’t over-prune early on

Let shrubs grow into their natural shape before shaping into a hedge.

Privacy shrubs are perfect if you want:

  • A natural, green alternative to fencing

  • Year-round beauty

  • Reduced noise and wind

  • A softer, more inviting landscape

  • A sustainable long-term investment

Travis Bradley