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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  • Livin' Easy Rose

    Livin' Easy Rose

  • Spring Showers Pink Flowering Currant

    Spring Showers Pink Flowering Currant

  • Mound San Bruno Coffeeberry

    Mound San Bruno Coffeeberry

  • 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

  • Long John Grevillea

    Long John Grevillea

  • Large Leaf Tea

    Large Leaf Tea

  • Lipstick Tropical Hibiscus

    Lipstick Tropical Hibiscus

  • Single Pink Oleander

    Single Pink Oleander

  • Limelight Panicle Hydrangea

    Limelight Panicle Hydrangea

  • Taylor's Perfection Camellia

    Taylor's Perfection Camellia

  • Pink A Boo Camellia

    Pink A Boo Camellia

  • Kramer's Supreme Camellia

    Kramer's Supreme Camellia

  • Summer Soul Arabian Jasmine

    Summer Soul Arabian Jasmine

  • Single Red Hibiscus

    Single Red Hibiscus

  • Variegated Japanese Mock Orange

    Variegated Japanese Mock Orange

  • Vestito Rosso Camellia

    Vestito Rosso Camellia

  • Shiro Chan Camellia

    Shiro Chan Camellia

  • Formosa Azalea

    Formosa Azalea

  • Blue Gem Coast Rosemary

    Blue Gem Coast Rosemary

  • Leatherleaf Coffeeberry

    Leatherleaf Coffeeberry

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.