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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  • Blushing Bride Rose of Sharon

    Blushing Bride Rose of Sharon

  • Shrubby Yew Pine

    Shrubby Yew Pine

  • Heavenly Bamboo

    Heavenly Bamboo

  • Wynyabbie Gem Coast Rosemary

    Wynyabbie Gem Coast Rosemary

  • Japanese Aralia

    Japanese Aralia

  • Bicolor Tree Mallow

    Bicolor Tree Mallow

  • Nana Pomegranate

    Nana Pomegranate

  • Coffeeberry

    Coffeeberry

  • 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

  • Livin' Easy Rose

    Livin' Easy Rose

  • Sentinel Manzanita

    Sentinel Manzanita

  • Compacta Carolina Cherry Laurel

    Compacta Carolina Cherry Laurel

  • Schipka English Laurel

    Schipka English Laurel

  • White Leaved Mallee

    White Leaved Mallee

  • Coastal Woollybush

    Coastal Woollybush

  • Large Leaf Tea

    Large Leaf Tea

  • Lipstick Tropical Hibiscus

    Lipstick Tropical Hibiscus

  • Limelight Panicle Hydrangea

    Limelight Panicle Hydrangea

  • Mystery Gardenia

    Mystery Gardenia

  • Taylor's Perfection Camellia

    Taylor's Perfection Camellia

  • Pink A Boo Camellia

    Pink A Boo Camellia

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.