Looking for a Native, Evergreen, Privacy Hedge - Ask Extension
I'm looking for a native evergreen shrub that I can ultimately use as a privacy hedge. Do you have any suggestions? Thank you
Knowledgebase
Looking for a Native, Evergreen, Privacy Hedge #906752
Asked June 22, 2025, 2:24 PM EDT
I'm looking for a native evergreen shrub that I can ultimately use as a privacy hedge. Do you have any suggestions? Thank you
Baltimore County Maryland
Expert Response
We can offer some ideas, but need more information first about the site conditions and what you're looking for.
- How much direct summer sun will the area receive? ("Full sun" is about 6 or more hours a day.)
- Does the soil drain well, or does it tend to stay wet or skew dry?
- Do deer visit the area, where they may browse on these plants?
- What mature size did you have in mind? (Without relying on pruning to restrain their growth.) What would be the minimum and/or maximum height and width?
- Is evergreen foliage a requirement? You did mention that, but we wanted to ask, because Maryland does not have many evergreen shrubs that are native, and depending on the responses to the inquiries above, that will narrow the list of candidates even further. A mixed-species hedge is always best regardless, but if you're able to include some deciduous shrubs, that will broaden your options.
