Tall shrubs over 5 feet for privacy screening

Tall Shrubs

Big privacy shrubs that fill space fast.

Tall shrubs create instant presence—whether you want a living fence, a softer alternative to wood panels, or a strong evergreen backbone that makes everything else look intentional. This collection focuses on shrubs that typically grow over 6 feet, making them ideal for privacy, wind buffering, and vertical structure in Bay Area landscapes.

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  • Grey Box Dwarf Coast Rosemary

    Grey Box Dwarf Coast Rosemary

  • Nuccio's Pearl Camellia

    Nuccio's Pearl Camellia

  • Japanese Boxwood

    Japanese Boxwood

  • Santa Cruz Blue Hibiscus

    Santa Cruz Blue Hibiscus

  • Arabian Jasmine

    Arabian Jasmine

  • Debutante Camellia

    Debutante Camellia

  • Grandiflora Sweet Pea Shrub

    Grandiflora Sweet Pea Shrub

  • Howard McMinn Manzanita

    Howard McMinn Manzanita

  • Concha California Lilac

    Concha California Lilac

  • White Bigleaf Hydrangea

    White Bigleaf Hydrangea

  • Lion's Tail

    Lion's Tail

  • Yuletide Camellia

    Yuletide Camellia

  • Vanilla Strawberry FE Hydrangea

    Vanilla Strawberry FE Hydrangea

  • Pearl Maxwell Camellia

    Pearl Maxwell Camellia

  • Magnoliaeflora Camellia

    Magnoliaeflora Camellia

  • Elizabeth Bush Anemone

    Elizabeth Bush Anemone

  • George L Taber Azalea

    George L Taber Azalea

  • Nuccio's Gem Camellia

    Nuccio's Gem Camellia

  • Golf Ball Kohuhu

    Golf Ball Kohuhu

  • Paradise Pajaro Manzanita

    Paradise Pajaro Manzanita

  • Little John Dwarf Weeping Bottlebrush

    Little John Dwarf Weeping Bottlebrush

  • Apple Blossom New Zealand Tea Tree

    Apple Blossom New Zealand Tea Tree

  • Banana Shrub

    Banana Shrub

  • White Chiffon Rose of Sharon

    White Chiffon Rose of Sharon

Frequently asked questions

What height counts as a tall shrub?
In this collection, tall shrubs are varieties that typically grow over 5 feet at maturity under normal landscape conditions.

How far apart should I plant tall shrubs for privacy?
It depends on the mature width of the variety. A common approach is spacing so plants lightly touch at maturity rather than overlapping heavily.

How long does it take to get a full screen?
Many shrubs look noticeably fuller after the first growing season once established. Faster growers fill in sooner, while moderate growers often look cleaner long-term.

Do tall shrubs need regular pruning?
Some do, especially faster-growing types. Others keep a naturally tidy shape with minimal trimming. Pruning needs vary by variety and your desired look.

Are tall shrubs good for windy areas?
Yes. Many tall shrubs reduce wind and create a calmer microclimate, which can also protect more delicate plants nearby.

Can I grow tall shrubs in containers?
Some varieties can work in large containers, but most tall shrubs perform best in the ground where roots can expand and stay evenly moist.

Do tall shrubs work in Bay Area gardens?
Yes. With the right match for sun exposure and watering, tall shrubs are a reliable choice for Bay Area landscapes.