Hedges, a common sight in Australian gardens and yards, offer benefits we often overlook. They not only form a protective barrier against pollution and noise but also serve as habitats for wildlife, enhancing the local environment. In addition, they screen our gardens from the street, trap pollution from traffic, and dampen neighbourhood noise.

Having a hedge also contributes to the neighbourhood's aesthetic appeal and your well-being, imbuing a sense of calm. So, why not integrate these magnificent living screens into your outdoor surroundings? To assist you in this endeavour, we've curated a list of the top 8 fast-growing hedges in Australia. Let's delve in.

Fast-Growing Hedges in Australia: At a Glance

The top eight fastest-growing hedges in Australia include:

1. Lilly Pilly
2. Murraya
3. Photinia Robusta
4. Viburnums
5. Clumping Bamboo
6. Cherry Laurel
7. Bottlebrush
8. Starry Night

Let's deep dive into each hedge type to see which of these fast-growing hedges may be ideal for your gardening or privacy needs.

#1 - Lilly Pilly: An Aussie Favourite

If you are looking for a fast-growing hedge that is also one of Australia’s favourite plants, look no further than Lilly Pilly. In addition to its impressive hedging, this Plant yields tasty crisp fruits.

This is a dense and fast-growing native hedge plant with glossy leaves. Apart from looking great, the waxy coating on the leaves helps retain moisture without affecting photosynthesis. It is also a good insulation against heat, which is increasingly important as our climate changes.

Lilly Pilly has a growth rate of approximately 50 to 60 centimetres and thrives in sandy loam to heavy loam soil types.

#2 - Murraya: The All-Rounder

Murraya paniculata is very hard to beat if you are looking for an attractive, fast-growing hedge that doubles as a screening plant. It has beautiful shiny green leaves that you can trim and shape at any height and any width.

This plant can grow up to 3 or 4 meters in about 20 years. But you can trim it to a manageable height for easy maintenance. It has a good growth rate that ranges from 30 to 60 centimetres per year. Moreover, the plant can survive in a wide range of nutrient-rich soils.

#3 - Photinia Robusta: The Resilient Beauty

The large-leafed Photinia Robusta is a great hedge plant that can thrive in a wide range of conditions. It can grow up to 5 metres in height, giving you the privacy you desire. It gains a growth of 30 to 90 centimetres per year.

Once you establish the plant, it requires relatively little water. But, it is important to water thoroughly during maintenance. The plant is strong enough to make in zones 7 to 9. Furthermore, this evergreen tree is tolerant to frost, drought, and heat.  

#4 - Viburnums: The Traditional Choice

For many years, Viburnums have been a go-to for Australian homeowners looking for a quick-growing hedge. They have an average growth rate that ranges from 30 to 60 centimetres per year.

The Viburnum Tinus is an amazing option. It’s an evergreen with little leaves that can reach a height of 3 metres. The Sweet Viburnum has large, glossy emerald leaves and bears fragrant white plumes and little red berries. It grows to a height of 3 to 4 metres in areas with mild winters but no severe frost.

#5 - Clumping Bamboo: The Space Saver

Clumping bamboo, also known as non-invasive bamboo, is a popular choice for landscaping in Australia. Unlike running bamboo, which spreads aggressively and can be difficult to control, clumping bamboo forms tight, and contained clumps that expand slowly over time. This makes it a more manageable and less invasive option for gardeners.

One of the advantages of clumping bamboo is its versatility. It can be used for various purposes, such as creating privacy screens, windbreaks, or ornamental focal points in gardens. The dense foliage provides excellent coverage, making it an ideal choice for blocking unwanted views or creating secluded areas.

#6 - Cherry Laurel: The Bee Magnet

This fast-growing shrub has large, polished, attractive leaves that are green all year round. It produces clusters of pretty yet modest creamy white flowers that are popular with bees.

The plant is highly versatile and can be shaped into a formal hedge or left to grow in a more natural shape. This makes it ideal for hedges of 1.5m to 5m high. Also, it has an average to a fast growth rate that ranges from 30 to 60 centimetres a year.  

Besides, this plant prefers partial to full sun exposure and well-draining soil. Regular water is necessary, especially during dry periods.

#7 - Bottlebrush: The Drought-Tolerant Native

Callistemon, aka bottlebrush, is a very low-water Australian native shrub that also happens to be evergreen. Bottlebrush is one of those great full-sun plants that can handle the heat.

Bottlebrush plants come in a wide variety. The ones that are bushy from the ground up are going to give you a great privacy screen. They are suitable for places where you want to get rid of unwanted views, do away with a noisy neighbour, or just want some extra colour.

#8 - Starry Night: The Graceful Native

The Starry Night is a versatile, evergreen, deep purple shrub that’s ideal for homeowners looking for an Australian native fast-growing hedge. It has a weeping, graceful habit with an impressive purple-pink growth. You will appreciate the beauty of this hedge in late spring and summer when the bronze buds burst into snowy white flowers.

Although it prefers well-drained humus-rich soil, the Starry Night growing hedge is also tolerant of a variety of soil conditions. Besides, it thrives in partial to full sun exposure.  

Which is the Fastest Growing Hedge in Australia?

The answer to the fastest-growing hedge in Australia is not straightforward due to the numerous speedy-growing hedges available in the country. Still, there are a variety of hedges that have established a solid reputation amongst horticulturalists as the fastest-growing hedges in Australia. Take, for instance, the Lilly Pilly. This evergreen plant is a preferred choice for speedy-growing hedges in many regions, with a remarkable growth rate of around 50cm to 60cm per annum.

But is it always the fastest hedge to grow? The answer is: not always.

It's vital to bear in mind that a plant's growth rate is influenced by numerous factors, such as soil type, climate, and sunlight, among others. Hence, it's wise to allow your fast-growing hedge plant of choice some time to flourish before you can fully reap the benefits. Alternatively, you can settle for a fence of fast-growing climbing plants. It is a super-fast solution for those who cannot wait long enough for a hedge plant to grow.

Essential Considerations for Your Hedge Selection

There’s much to consider before you choose a growing living screen for your Australian garden. ‘Here are the most important ones.  

• What’s your purpose for growing a hedge plant?
• Which hedge plant will thrive in your climate? Do I need a drought or frost-tolerant plant?
• How quickly do you want the hedge to grow? Are you ready for more frequent maintenance and pruning?
• Is there enough room for the hedge to grow without encroaching or overcrowding?
• Do you have heavy clay or well-drained soil in your garden?
• Does the soil need amending to improve drainage and fertility?
• What are the watering needs of the fast-growing hedge you choose?
• Are there any local regulations regarding plant species or hedge height?

There's no denying that these considerations are crucial, but the answers to these questions will guide you in selecting the most suitable fast-growing hedge plant.

Choosing the Right Spot for Your Hedge in Australia

When planning where to plant your fast-growing hedge in Australia, there are several factors to take into consideration. The first step is to carefully assess the conditions of your garden. Pay attention to the amount of sunlight that different areas receive throughout the day, the type of soil present, and the amount of space available for the hedge to grow.

Most fast-growing hedges will appreciate a sunny or partially shaded spot. If your hedge is in a darker part of the garden, you may find its growth is not as rapid or dense as expected. Conversely, too much sun can sometimes be an issue, particularly in the hottest parts of Australia. In these cases, choosing a sun-tolerant species like the Bottlebrush or the Starry Night would be beneficial.

Soil conditions are also an important factor. Some hedges are adaptable and can cope with a variety of soil types. However, it's generally best to aim for well-draining soil. Some plants, like the Lilly Pilly, prefer sandy to heavy loam soil, while others, like the Cherry Laurel, will appreciate rich, well-drained soil.

Space is the final crucial factor. Remember that your fast-growing hedge will need room to grow both vertically and horizontally. Always plant with the full-grown size of the hedge in mind, and remember that cramped conditions can lead to increased susceptibility to disease and reduced growth.

Caring for Your Hedges in Australia

Proper care and maintenance are essential factors to consider if you wish to enjoy the full benefits of your fast-growing hedges in Australia. By ensuring your hedge receives the best care, you will witness rapid growth, a healthier plant, and a more visually appealing landscape.

Fast-growing hedge species may seem like a great low-maintenance option due to their rapid growth and quick establishment. However, their speedy growth can often require more frequent maintenance compared to slower-growing plants.

Prune regularly

To keep your hedge looking its best, regular pruning is usually necessary. Pruning encourages denser growth, making the hedge thicker and more private, but it also controls the height and spread to prevent your hedge from encroaching on your neighbour’s space or overtaking other plants in your garden.

Nourish your hedge

Feeding your hedge is another essential aspect of hedge care. Fast-growing hedges in Australia are naturally vigorous growers, and to keep up with their rapid growth rate, additional nutrients are often necessary. Applying a slow-release fertiliser in the spring and summer seasons will provide the nutrients these hedges need to flourish.

Water appropriately

Watering is also an essential part of hedge care. While established hedges like the Lilly Pilly or Murraya can cope well with drought, they will still appreciate a drink during the drier summer months. Younger plants, however, will need regular watering until they have established their root systems. Always remember that it's better to water deeply and less frequently than to give your hedges frequent shallow watering, as this encourages deeper root growth and makes the hedge more resilient during periods of drought.

Keep an eye out for pests

Lastly, pests and diseases are another aspect to keep in mind. Always keep an eye on your hedges for any signs of damage or disease. The earlier you catch any problems, the easier they will be to manage.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are frequently asked questions about fast-growing hedges in Australia.

Wrapping Up

Each plant or shrub offers its own set of appealing features, such as vibrant foliage or regular blooms. By considering factors like growth rate, preferred growing conditions, and maintenance requirements, you can select the perfect plant that aligns with your specific needs; whether you desire a hedge that provides privacy, attracts pollinators, or simply enhances the beauty of your outdoor space.

Additionally, don't hesitate to seek guidance from local gardening experts who can provide valuable insights and assistance throughout the process. With the right plant selection and proper care, you can create a stunning and functional hedge in no time.