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.

Skip to results list

Filters

140 items
Column grid

Active filters:

Column grid

Filter

Active filters:

  • Paradise Pajaro Manzanita

    Paradise Pajaro Manzanita

  • Electric Pink Grass Tree

    Electric Pink Grass Tree

  • Claremont Pink Flowering Currant

    Claremont Pink Flowering Currant

  • Zuni Crape Myrtle

    Zuni Crape Myrtle

  • Apple Blossom New Zealand Tea Tree

    Apple Blossom New Zealand Tea Tree

  • White Chiffon Rose of Sharon

    White Chiffon Rose of Sharon

  • Blushing Bride Rose of Sharon

    Blushing Bride Rose of Sharon

  • Mystery Gardenia

    Mystery Gardenia

  • Santana Tropical Hibiscus

    Santana Tropical Hibiscus

  • Heavenly Bamboo

    Heavenly Bamboo

  • Wynyabbie Gem Coast Rosemary

    Wynyabbie Gem Coast Rosemary

  • Common Myrtle

    Common Myrtle

  • Nuccio's Bella Rossa Camellia

    Nuccio's Bella Rossa Camellia

  • Bicolor Tree Mallow

    Bicolor Tree Mallow

  • Nana Pomegranate

    Nana Pomegranate

  • Hel Strybing New Zealand Tea Tree

    Hel Strybing New Zealand Tea Tree

  • Moonlight Grevillea

    Moonlight Grevillea

  • Coffeeberry

    Coffeeberry

  • Speckled Japanese Aralia

    Speckled Japanese Aralia

  • Camouflage Variegated Japanese Aralia

    Camouflage Variegated Japanese Aralia

  • Golden Goddess Bamboo

    Golden Goddess Bamboo

  • Phantom Panicle Hydrangea

    Phantom Panicle Hydrangea

  • Snow Queen Oakleaf Hydrangea

    Snow Queen Oakleaf Hydrangea

  • Canberra Gem Grevillea

    Canberra Gem Grevillea

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.