The best evergreen shrubs combine year-round foliage with a size and shape that fit your planting space; my best overall pick is Perfect Plants Emerald Green Arborvitae for its useful upright form and hedge potential. For a compact, tidy accent, Proven Winners Tater Tot Arborvitae offers a smaller rounded profile, while Procumbens Nana Juniper suits gardeners who need low-growing groundcover. The main tradeoffs are mature size, foliage color, climate fit, and how much pruning or cleanup a shrub may need. A narrow screening plant, a colorful border accent, and a spreading groundcover solve different problems, so the best choice depends on your site. Continue reading for my full comparison and practical guidance on matching each shrub to its place in the garden.
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Key Takeaways
- Emerald Green Arborvitae is my best overall pick because its upright growth suits screening and structured planting better than the compact or spreading shrubs in this lineup.
- Tater Tot Arborvitae and North Star Boxwood stand out for smaller, controlled forms, but compact growth is not a substitute for checking the plant’s mature width and site needs.
- Procumbens Nana Juniper and Golden Pacific Juniper serve a different role from upright shrubs: their value is low, spreading coverage rather than privacy or height.
- Several picks add color beyond green foliage, including Sunshine Ligustrum, Gold Mop False Cypress, Purple Daydream Loropetalum, and Forever Goldy Thuja; their visual impact may call for more deliberate placement.
- Container size alone does not tell you how quickly a shrub will fill a space. The 1-gallon, 2-gallon, and 3-gallon listings still need to be judged against mature dimensions, establishment time, and your planting plan.
| Perfect Plants Emerald Green Arborvitae, 1 Gallon |  | Best for Tall Privacy Screens | Plant type: Tree | Container size: 1 gallon | Mature height: Up to 14 feet | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Planet Earth Arborvitae, 1-Gallon Evergreen Shrub |  | Best for Low-Pruning Borders | Plant type: Evergreen shrub | Pot size: 1 gallon | Growth habit: Compact, dense, naturally rounded | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Podocarpus Maki Live Plant, 1 Gallon |  | Best for Warm-Climate Narrow Hedges | Common name: Podocarpus Maki | Scientific name: Podocarpus macrophyllus | Container size: 1 gallon | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Perfect Plants Oakleaf Holly, 2–3 ft Evergreen Shrub |  | Best for Berries and Year-Round Structure | Plant type: Shrub and hedge | Height when shipped: 2–3 feet | Mature height: Up to 14 feet | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Procumbens Nana Juniper, 2.5 Quart, Low-Growing Evergreen Groundcover Shrub |  | Best for Sunny Slopes and Groundcover | Plant type: Evergreen shrub | Plant size: 2.5 quart | Foliage: Blue-green, needle-like | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Perfect Plants Sunshine Ligustrum Shrub, 1 Gallon |  | Best for Year-Round Golden Color | Plant type: Evergreen shrub | Container size: 1 gallon | Foliage: Golden-yellow | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Eleanor Taber Indian Hawthorn, 2.5-Quart Live Evergreen Shrub |  | Best Compact Flowering Evergreen | Plant type: Evergreen shrub | Container size: 2.5 quart | Flower color and season: Pink; spring | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Gold Mop False Cypress Shrub, 1 Gallon |  | Best Slow-Growing Golden Conifer | Plant type: Perennial shrub | Container size: 1 gallon | Foliage: Golden; year-round color | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Proven Winners Tater Tot Arborvitae Shrub, 2 Gallon |  | Best Compact Evergreen for Cold Climates | Plant type: Evergreen shrub | Container size: 2 gallon | Mature size: 2–3 feet wide × 3–4 feet high | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Perfect Plants Frostproof Gardenia Live Plant, 1-Gallon Pot |  | Best for Fragrant Flowers | Plant type: Gardenia shrub | Pot size: 1 gallon | Mature size: 5 feet tall × 4 feet wide | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Proven Winners North Star Boxwood Shrub |  | Best for Neat, Year-Round Structure | Botanical name: Buxus sempervirens ‘Katerberg’ | Plant type: Shrub and hedge | USDA hardiness zones: 5–9 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Purple Daydream Loropetalum, 1-Gallon Compact Evergreen Shrub |  | Best for Purple Foliage in Small Gardens | Plant type: Evergreen shrub | Container size: 1 gallon | Expected plant height: 2 ft. | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Garden Debut Golden Pacific Juniper Live Evergreen Shrub, 3 Gallon |  | Best for Sunny Groundcover and Slopes | Botanical name: Juniperus conferta ‘sPg-3-016’ | Plant type: Live evergreen shrub | Container size: 3 gallons | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Southern Living Obsession Nandina Shrub, 2 Gal. |  | Best for Red Foliage and Deer Resistance | Plant type: Evergreen shrub | Container size: 2 gal. | Foliage color: Bright red | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Forever Goldy Thuja Evergreen Shrub, 1-Gallon Pot |  | Best for Gold Color in a Narrow Planting | Plant type: Evergreen shrub | Container size: 1 gallon (3 quart) | Foliage color: Gold-yellow | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| evergreen shrub | Plant type | Container size | USDA hardiness zones |
|---|---|---|---|
| Perfect Plants Emerald Green A | Tree | 1 gallon | — |
| Planet Earth Arborvitae | Evergreen shrub | — | — |
| Podocarpus Maki Live Plant | — | 1 gallon | — |
| Perfect Plants Oakleaf Holly | Shrub and hedge | — | — |
| Procumbens Nana Juniper | Evergreen shrub | — | — |
| Perfect Plants Sunshine Ligust | Evergreen shrub | 1 gallon | 6–10 |
| Eleanor Taber Indian Hawthorn | Evergreen shrub | 2.5 quart | 7–11 |
| Gold Mop False Cypress Shrub | Perennial shrub | 1 gallon | 4–8 |
| Proven Winners Tater Tot Arbor | Evergreen shrub | 2 gallon | 3–8 |
| Perfect Plants Frostproof Gard | Gardenia shrub | — | — |
| Proven Winners North Star Boxw | Shrub and hedge | — | 5–9 |
| Purple Daydream Loropetalum | Evergreen shrub | 1 gallon | 7–10 |
| Garden Debut Golden Pacific Ju | Live evergreen shrub | 3 gallons | — |
| Southern Living Obsession Nand | Evergreen shrub | 2 gal. | 6–10 |
| Forever Goldy Thuja Evergreen | Evergreen shrub | 1 gallon (3 quart) | 5–8 |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Perfect Plants Emerald Green Arborvitae, 1 Gallon
For a narrow, tall evergreen screen, I’d rank this arborvitae ahead of the rounded Planet Earth Arborvitae: its upright columnar form can reach 14 feet while staying about 3–4 feet wide. That makes it a better fit when the goal is vertical screening rather than a low, naturally shaped border. Its foliage stays emerald green year-round, and deer resistance and drought tolerance can reduce ongoing fuss once plants are established. The tradeoff is that “low maintenance” does not mean hands-off at planting: it needs regular watering, with extra winter protection recommended during its first year. At one gallon, it also takes time to develop into a substantial screen. Choose it for a tall, narrow hedge, not a quickly filled or compact planting.
Pros:- Evergreen foliage provides year-round screening.
- Columnar growth reaches up to 14 feet while staying about 3–4 feet wide.
- Deer resistance and drought tolerance can ease care after establishment.
- Suited to hedges and privacy screens.
Cons:- Needs regular watering while establishing.
- Extra winter protection is recommended during the first year.
- The one-gallon plant will need time to form a mature screen.
Best for: Gardeners in suitable hardiness zones who want a narrow, tall green screen and can water young plants consistently.
Not ideal for: Buyers who need an immediately dense screen, want a naturally rounded shrub, or cannot provide first-year watering and winter protection.
- Plant type:Tree
- Container size:1 gallon
- Mature height:Up to 14 feet
- Mature width:3–4 feet
- Hardiness zones:Listed as 2–7; also listed as 3–8
- Sunlight:Full sun
- Growth habit:Upright, columnar
- Watering:Regular watering
- Special features:Compact, deer resistant, drought tolerant
Our verdict“Choose this for a tall, narrow evergreen screen if you can give a young plant steady care before it becomes low-maintenance.”
Planet Earth Arborvitae, 1-Gallon Evergreen Shrub
The Planet Earth Arborvitae is the lineup’s pick for gardeners who want a naturally rounded, dense shrub instead of a clipped wall. Unlike the taller, columnar Perfect Plants Emerald Green Arborvitae, this one is described as needing no shearing, which suits foundation beds, borders, and informal hedges where a tidy shape matters but repeated trimming does not. Its foliage changes from green to bronze in winter, so it offers a seasonal color shift rather than the steady green of the Emerald Green. The plant is also described as cold hardy and resistant to Passalora/Cercospora needle blight. The main limitation is the one-gallon starting size: it may take time to fill a screen or broad planting. I’d favor it for lower-maintenance shape, not for a specified tall privacy barrier.
Pros:- Naturally rounded shape is described as needing no shearing.
- Dense foliage suits borders, hedges, and privacy screens.
- Winter bronze tones add seasonal variation.
- Described as cold hardy and resistant to Passalora/Cercospora needle blight.
Cons:- The one-gallon pot is a small starting size for landscape planting.
- Winter foliage turns bronze rather than remaining green.
- No mature height or width is provided, making space planning less certain.
Best for: Gardeners seeking a naturally rounded evergreen for foundation plantings or borders who want to avoid routine shearing.
Not ideal for: Buyers who need a documented tall screen or want foliage that stays green rather than turning bronze in winter.
- Plant type:Evergreen shrub
- Pot size:1 gallon
- Growth habit:Compact, dense, naturally rounded
- Foliage color:Green, turning bronze in winter
- Cold hardiness:Described as cold hardy
- Disease resistance:Passalora/Cercospora needle blight
- Uses:Foundation plantings, hedges, borders, and privacy screens
- Unit count:1
Our verdict“Pick this for an informal, rounded planting that needs little shaping, but choose Emerald Green Arborvitae for a defined tall screen.”
Podocarpus Maki Live Plant, 1 Gallon
For warm-climate gardeners, Podocarpus Maki offers a narrow, upright hedge with glossy dark green foliage and a mature size of 8–10 feet tall by 3–4 feet wide. Compared with the Perfect Plants Emerald Green Arborvitae, it covers a similar vertical-screening role but is suited to USDA Zones 7–11 and tolerates partial shade as well as full sun. That flexibility can help where a hedge site is not fully exposed, while its drought tolerance after establishment and low pruning needs suit a lower-maintenance planting. This is not a universal substitute for the arborvitae: it needs well-draining soil, and the listing excludes shipments to California and Arizona. I’d choose it for a warm-region screen, but skip it if your climate, soil drainage, or shipping location falls outside its limits.
Pros:- Upright form suits narrow hedges and privacy screens.
- Glossy evergreen foliage provides year-round greenery.
- Tolerates drought once established and needs little pruning.
- Deer, rabbit, and pest resistance are listed.
Cons:- Does not ship to California or Arizona.
- Limited to USDA Zones 7–11.
- Requires well-draining soil.
Best for: Gardeners in USDA Zones 7–11 who want a narrow evergreen screen and have well-draining soil, including sites with partial shade.
Not ideal for: Residents of California or Arizona, gardeners in colder zones, or anyone planting in poorly drained soil.
- Common name:Podocarpus Maki
- Scientific name:Podocarpus macrophyllus
- Container size:1 gallon
- Mature height:8–10 feet
- Mature width:3–4 feet
- Hardiness zones:7–11
- Sunlight:Full sun to partial shade
- Soil:Well-draining soil; loam listed
- Shipping restrictions:Does not ship to California or Arizona
Our verdict“Choose Podocarpus Maki for a narrow, low-pruning screen in a warm zone, provided your location is eligible for shipment and drainage is good.”
Perfect Plants Oakleaf Holly, 2–3 ft Evergreen Shrub
Oakleaf Holly brings something the arborvitaes in this group do not: red berries alongside evergreen foliage. Its columnar, pyramidal form can grow to 14 feet tall and 8 feet wide, so it makes a more substantial landscape feature than the compact, naturally rounded Planet Earth Arborvitae. The plant is self-fruitful, which means a buyer does not need to plan space or budget for a second pollinator to get the listed berry benefit. That wider mature spread is also the key tradeoff: this is not a tight hedge for a narrow strip, and its eventual size calls for room. It is listed for Zones 6–9 with moderate water needs, but California and Arizona residents cannot order it. I’d pick it where berries and a strong upright shape matter more than a slim footprint.
Pros:- Evergreen foliage maintains year-round structure.
- Produces ornamental red berries from late spring into summer.
- Self-fruitful, so no partner pollinator is needed.
- Columnar, pyramidal habit suits structured landscape planting.
Cons:- Mature size of up to 14 feet tall and 8 feet wide requires substantial space.
- Cannot be ordered by residents of California or Arizona.
- Moderate water needs may require attention during dry periods.
Best for: Gardeners in Zones 6–9 with room for a broad evergreen shrub who want red berries without planting a pollinator partner.
Not ideal for: Residents of California or Arizona, or anyone needing a narrow hedge or a shrub that stays small at maturity.
- Plant type:Shrub and hedge
- Height when shipped:2–3 feet
- Mature height:Up to 14 feet
- Mature width:Up to 8 feet
- Hardiness zones:6–9
- Growth habit:Columnar and pyramidal
- Berry color and season:Red; late spring into summer
- Pollination:Self-fruitful; no partner needed
- Water needs:Moderate
Our verdict“Choose Oakleaf Holly for berries and a substantial evergreen form if you have room for its broad mature spread and can order it in your state.”
Procumbens Nana Juniper, 2.5 Quart, Low-Growing Evergreen Groundcover Shrub
Procumbens Nana is the clear choice here for covering ground rather than screening at eye level. It grows to about 1 foot tall but spreads 4–6 feet wide, with blue-green needle-like foliage that stays evergreen. That makes it more suitable for sunny slopes, rock gardens, and mass plantings than the upright Perfect Plants Emerald Green Arborvitae or Podocarpus Maki, both of which are intended for vertical screening. Once established, this juniper tolerates drought and needs little pruning; it also handles poor, dry, and sandy soils if drainage is good. Its horizontal spread can help cover a broad area, but it also needs room and full sun. Expect to water regularly through the first growing season, and do not choose it for a fast, tall privacy barrier.
Pros:- Low, spreading habit works as groundcover for slopes and mass plantings.
- Blue-green evergreen foliage adds year-round color.
- Tolerates poor, dry, and sandy soils when well drained.
- Drought tolerant after establishment and requires little pruning.
Cons:- Needs regular watering during its first growing season.
- Requires full sun and well-drained soil for best growth.
- A 4–6-foot mature spread needs substantial horizontal space.
Best for: Gardeners covering sunny slopes, rock gardens, or broad open beds who want a low-growing evergreen and can allow it to spread.
Not ideal for: Buyers seeking a tall privacy hedge, planting in shade or poorly drained soil, or working with a narrow bed.
- Plant type:Evergreen shrub
- Plant size:2.5 quart
- Foliage:Blue-green, needle-like
- Mature height:About 1 foot
- Mature spread:4–6 feet
- Sun exposure:Full sun
- Hardiness zones:4–9; product information also lists Zone 6
- Soil:Well-drained; tolerates poor, dry, and sandy soils
- Uses:Groundcover, rock gardens, slopes, patio containers, and mass plantings
Our verdict“Choose Procumbens Nana for wide, sunny groundcover areas, not for the tall screening job handled by Emerald Green Arborvitae or Podocarpus Maki.”
Perfect Plants Sunshine Ligustrum Shrub, 1 Gallon
Sunshine Ligustrum is my pick for adding a bright foliage color that lasts beyond a flowering season. Its golden-yellow leaves suit sunny borders, containers, and hedges, while its non-flowering habit means it does not spread by seed. Compared with Gold Mop False Cypress, it grows faster and can be shaped for more uses, but it needs regular watering while establishing. It also asks for at least six hours of direct sun to show its brightest color, so a shady planting spot works against its main appeal. Once established, it handles heat, drought, salt spray, and deer, making it a practical option for exposed sites in zones 6–10. Some leaf drop after shipping is normal, and the seller excludes several states.
Pros:- Golden-yellow foliage provides year-round color.
- Non-flowering and does not spread by seed.
- Established plants tolerate drought, heat, salt spray, and deer.
- Can be used in hedges, borders, containers, or mass plantings.
Cons:- Needs at least six hours of direct sun for the brightest foliage.
- Requires frequent watering while establishing.
- Shipping is unavailable to California, Arizona, and Hawaii.
Best for: Gardeners in zones 6–10 who have a sunny border, hedge, or container spot and want golden foliage with faster growth than a slow-growing conifer.
Not ideal for: Buyers with shaded yards, little time to water during establishment, or gardens in California, Arizona, or Hawaii, where shipping is restricted.
- Plant type:Evergreen shrub
- Container size:1 gallon
- Foliage:Golden-yellow
- Sunlight:Full sun; at least 6 hours daily
- USDA hardiness zones:6–10
- Mature size:3–6 feet tall × 3–4 feet wide
- Growth rate:Moderate to fast
- Cold hardiness:About -10°F once established
- Shipping restrictions:Cannot ship to California, Arizona, or Hawaii
Our verdict“Choose Sunshine Ligustrum for a sunny site where durable golden foliage and quicker growth matter more than low-water care during establishment.”
Eleanor Taber Indian Hawthorn, 2.5-Quart Live Evergreen Shrub
Eleanor Taber Indian Hawthorn pairs glossy evergreen leaves with clusters of rosy pink spring flowers, so it brings more seasonal color than foliage-only picks such as Tater Tot Arborvitae. Its compact 3–4-foot size suits foundation beds, low hedges, and specimen planting without demanding much pruning. It is also drought tolerant once established, though the first growing season calls for regular watering. Full sun favors stronger blooming; partial shade is possible, but may reduce the floral display that sets this shrub apart. Compared with Frostproof Gardenia, it offers a compact footprint and less emphasis on fragrant flowers, but it is hardy in zones 7–11 and produces small black fruits in summer. Choose it for a mild-climate garden where flowers and evergreen structure both matter.
Pros:- Rosy pink spring flower clusters add seasonal color.
- Glossy foliage stays evergreen.
- Compact 3–4-foot size fits foundation beds and low hedges.
- Drought tolerant after establishment and needs little pruning.
Cons:- Needs regular watering during the first growing season.
- Flowering is best in sunnier locations.
- Hardiness is limited to USDA zones 7–11.
Best for: Gardeners in zones 7–11 looking for a compact foundation shrub that combines glossy evergreen foliage with spring flowers and needs little pruning.
Not ideal for: Buyers in colder climates or those unable to water regularly during establishment; gardeners seeking the strongest bloom in a shaded planting area should also look elsewhere.
- Plant type:Evergreen shrub
- Container size:2.5 quart
- Flower color and season:Pink; spring
- Mature size:3–4 feet tall × 3–4 feet wide
- Sunlight:Full sun to partial shade
- USDA hardiness zones:7–11
- Soil type:Loam
- Establishment care:Water 2–3 times weekly during the first growing season
- Fruit:Small black fruits in mid-summer
Our verdict“Pick Eleanor Taber for a compact, flowering evergreen in a warm climate, but favor a foliage-focused shrub if you cannot provide establishment watering or sun for blooms.”
Gold Mop False Cypress Shrub, 1 Gallon
Gold Mop False Cypress is best for gardeners who want a distinct golden, conifer-like accent and do not need quick coverage. Its color stays through the year, including winter, while its slow growth makes it less demanding to keep within bounds than faster-growing Sunshine Ligustrum. That slower pace is also the main tradeoff: this is not the pick for filling a hedge or bare bed quickly. It needs full sun for its golden foliage, so a shaded site will not suit it. The listed mature dimensions are 5 feet high and 8 feet wide, a broad footprint that deserves planning despite the modest 1-gallon container. With hardiness in zones 4–8, it reaches colder regions than the other golden foliage choice, but offers less flexibility for shaping and varied uses.
Pros:- Golden foliage retains color year-round.
- Contrasts with conventional green conifers.
- Hardy in USDA zones 4–8.
- Slow growth can limit how often size needs managing.
Cons:- Slow growth makes it a poor choice for quick coverage.
- Requires full sun.
- Listed mature width of 8 feet calls for generous planting space.
Best for: Gardeners in zones 4–8 who want a broad, slow-growing golden conifer accent and have a sunny spot where it can spread.
Not ideal for: Anyone needing a fast-growing screen, a narrow shrub for a tight bed, or an evergreen that can tolerate shade.
- Plant type:Perennial shrub
- Container size:1 gallon
- Foliage:Golden; year-round color
- Growth rate:Slow-growing
- Sunlight:Full sun
- USDA hardiness zones:4–8
- Listed height:5 feet
- Listed width:8 feet
- Soil type:Loam
Our verdict“Choose Gold Mop False Cypress for a sunny, spacious garden that benefits from slow-growing golden texture, not for quick screening or a narrow planting strip.”
Proven Winners Tater Tot Arborvitae Shrub, 2 Gallon
Tater Tot Arborvitae stands out for its naturally rounded form, making it a tidy choice for small beds where a formal-looking evergreen is useful without regular shaping. Its green, fragrant, fan-like foliage supplies year-round structure, and its zone 3–8 range covers colder climates than Eleanor Taber Indian Hawthorn or Frostproof Gardenia. It also tolerates partial shade, unlike full-sun-dependent Gold Mop False Cypress. The tradeoff is scale: at 3–4 feet tall and 2–3 feet wide, it stays compact rather than forming a tall privacy screen. It also needs regular watering, so its low-maintenance label does not mean it is suited to dry, neglected spots. I’d favor it for a small landscape with room for a rounded accent, not for fast screening.
Pros:- Naturally rounded shape suits small landscape spaces.
- Evergreen foliage gives year-round structure.
- Tolerates full sun to partial shade.
- Low-maintenance form does not require frequent shaping.
Cons:- Mature height of 3–4 feet is too short for substantial screening.
- Requires regular watering.
- Fragrant foliage may not suit buyers who prefer an unscented shrub.
Best for: Homeowners in zones 3–8 who want a naturally rounded, small-scale evergreen for a foundation bed, entry planting, or compact landscape.
Not ideal for: Gardeners seeking a tall privacy screen or a shrub that can be left dry; its mature size is limited and regular watering is needed.
- Plant type:Evergreen shrub
- Container size:2 gallon
- Mature size:2–3 feet wide × 3–4 feet high
- Shipping height:10–14 inches
- Sunlight:Full sun to partial shade
- USDA hardiness zones:3–8
- Foliage:Green, fragrant, fan-like
- Moisture needs:Regular watering
- Maintenance:Low maintenance
Our verdict“Choose Tater Tot for a compact, naturally rounded evergreen in a cooler-climate garden, but skip it if you need height or low-water performance.”
Perfect Plants Frostproof Gardenia Live Plant, 1-Gallon Pot
Frostproof Gardenia is the flowering choice in this group for gardeners who value fragrant white blooms as much as evergreen leaves. Its spring-to-summer flowering adds a sensory feature that Tater Tot Arborvitae and Gold Mop False Cypress do not offer, while deep green foliage keeps the shrub useful outside its bloom period. At a listed 5 feet tall and 4 feet wide, it can work as a border, low hedge, or garden accent, and it needs no pruning to maintain its shape. Its full-sun-to-partial-shade range gives it some placement flexibility, though it still needs an appropriate light level. The seller describes it as deer resistant and includes plant food. Compared with compact Eleanor Taber Indian Hawthorn, this is the more fragrance-led choice, but shipping restrictions and its larger listed size narrow its fit.
Pros:- Fragrant white flowers bloom from spring to summer.
- Deep green foliage provides evergreen interest.
- Works as a border, low hedge, or garden accent.
- Deer resistant and needs no pruning to maintain its shape.
Cons:- Cannot ship to California or Arizona.
- Needs a site with full sun to partial shade.
- Listed mature size may exceed the space available in a compact bed.
Best for: Gardeners with an outdoor border or accent space who want fragrant white flowers, deep green evergreen foliage, and a shrub that does not need pruning to hold its shape.
Not ideal for: Buyers in California or Arizona, or those needing a smaller shrub than the listed 5-foot height and 4-foot width.
- Plant type:Gardenia shrub
- Pot size:1 gallon
- Mature size:5 feet tall × 4 feet wide
- Flower color:White
- Blooming season:Spring to summer
- Sunlight:Full sun to partial shade
- Special features:Fragrant; deer resistant
- Included:Plant food
- Shipping restrictions:Does not ship to California or Arizona
Our verdict“Choose Frostproof Gardenia if fragrant flowers are a priority and you have space for a medium-sized shrub, but check shipping eligibility before ordering.”
Proven Winners North Star Boxwood Shrub
North Star Boxwood is the strongest fit here for gardeners who want a compact evergreen with a tidy, naturally rounded outline. Its dense, shiny foliage stays dark green through winter, giving borders and container arrangements structure when flowering shrubs are out of bloom. At 24–32 inches tall and wide, it is easier to place in a small garden than the much broader Golden Pacific Juniper, which spreads up to 8 feet. North Star also needs little pruning to hold its globe shape, though it still needs regular watering. Its zones 5–9 hardiness cover colder regions than Purple Daydream Loropetalum, but buyers in hot, dry sites should plan for consistent moisture rather than treating it as a drought-tolerant choice.
Pros:- Dense globe habit provides a naturally orderly shape with little pruning.
- Shiny dark green foliage retains color through winter.
- Compact mature size suits low hedges, borders, and containers.
- Hardy across USDA zones 5–9.
Cons:- Requires regular watering, so it is a poor fit for gardens that often dry out.
- Full sun to partial shade is specified, limiting placement in deeply shaded sites.
Best for: Gardeners in zones 5–9 who want a compact, formal-looking evergreen for a low hedge, border, or patio container.
Not ideal for: Gardeners seeking a drought-tolerant shrub or a large, fast-covering groundcover; this boxwood needs regular watering and stays relatively small.
- Botanical name:Buxus sempervirens ‘Katerberg’
- Plant type:Shrub and hedge
- USDA hardiness zones:5–9
- Mature size:24–32 in. tall × 24–32 in. wide
- Sun exposure:Full sun to partial shade
- Growth habit:Dense globe
- Foliage:Evergreen, shiny dark green
- Watering:Regular watering
Our verdict“Choose North Star for a small, consistently green shrub with a neat outline, but skip it if your planting area is dry or you need broad ground coverage.”
Purple Daydream Loropetalum, 1-Gallon Compact Evergreen Shrub
Purple Daydream Loropetalum brings a different kind of year-round interest than North Star Boxwood: its compact mound is defined by dark purple foliage, with dark pink, string-like flowers adding a seasonal accent. At an expected height of about 2 feet, it suits small borders and containers where a larger shrub would crowd nearby plants. It is also described as drought-tolerant once established and naturally deer-resistant, a useful contrast with the boxwood’s regular-water requirement. The tradeoff is a narrower climate range: zones 7–10 exclude colder gardens that can grow North Star. It prefers well-draining acidic soil, needs moderate watering, and may need shelter from harsh winter winds, so it is not a carefree choice for exposed or alkaline sites.
Pros:- Dark purple foliage offers a strong color contrast with green evergreens such as North Star Boxwood.
- Compact, mounding growth fits small gardens and containers.
- Drought-tolerant once established.
- Naturally deer-resistant.
Cons:- Hardiness is limited to USDA zones 7–10.
- Needs well-draining acidic soil and moderate watering.
- Harsh winter winds may require protection.
Best for: Gardeners in zones 7–10 who want a compact container or border shrub with purple foliage and some resistance to deer.
Not ideal for: Gardeners in colder zones, exposed windy locations, or sites without well-draining acidic soil.
- Plant type:Evergreen shrub
- Container size:1 gallon
- Expected plant height:2 ft.
- Foliage:Dark purple
- Flower color:Dark pink
- Expected blooming period:Summer to fall
- USDA hardiness zones:7–10
- Sun and soil:Full sun to part shade; well-draining acidic soil
Our verdict“Pick Purple Daydream for a small, colorful shrub in a suitable warm-zone garden, but choose North Star Boxwood for broader cold hardiness and a formal green shape.”
Garden Debut Golden Pacific Juniper Live Evergreen Shrub, 3 Gallon
Golden Pacific Juniper is the clear choice in this group when the job is covering ground rather than creating a compact upright accent. It grows only 10–18 inches tall but can spread 6–8 feet, with cascading golden foliage that can spill over edges and help cover slopes. That footprint is the opposite of North Star Boxwood’s small, rounded form, so it needs room to spread. Full sun brings out its strongest gold color; in partial shade, the standout foliage may be less pronounced. Once established, the juniper tolerates heat, drought, and salty conditions, giving it an advantage over shrubs that need regular watering. However, it is not suited to every region: it is listed for zones 6–9, and shipping excludes many western states.
Pros:- Wide, cascading growth can cover ground and soften walls or bed edges.
- Golden-yellow foliage adds color, especially in full sun.
- Tolerates heat, drought, and salty conditions once established.
- Low mature height suits groundcover use and erosion control.
Cons:- Its 6–8 ft. spread can overwhelm a small planting area.
- Full sun is needed for the strongest golden foliage.
- Shipping is unavailable to AK, AZ, CA, CO, HI, ID, MT, NM, NV, OR, UT, WA, and WY.
Best for: Gardeners in eligible shipping states who need a low, spreading evergreen for sunny slopes, retaining-wall edges, or broad groundcover.
Not ideal for: Gardeners with small beds, shaded planting areas, or addresses in the listed states where this plant cannot ship.
- Botanical name:Juniperus conferta ‘sPg-3-016’
- Plant type:Live evergreen shrub
- Container size:3 gallons
- Mature size:10–18 in. tall × 6–8 ft. wide
- Growth rate:Moderate
- Hardiness zones:USDA zones 6–9
- Sunlight and soil:Full sun; well-drained soil, including sandy soil
- Outdoor uses:Groundcover, accent, low hedge, erosion control, or cascading over walls and edges
Our verdict“Choose Golden Pacific Juniper for sunny, spacious areas that need low, spreading coverage, not for a compact hedge or a restricted shipping state.”
Southern Living Obsession Nandina Shrub, 2 Gal.
Obsession Nandina earns its place for gardeners who want bold red foliage rather than the steady green structure of North Star Boxwood or the golden spread of Golden Pacific Juniper. Its color works in a landscape bed or container, and full sun to part shade gives it more placement flexibility than the juniper, which calls for full sun. The shrub is listed as deer-resistant and suits USDA zones 6–10, but the product data gives an expected height of 48 inches without a mature width, making it harder to plan as a tightly confined small-space plant. It also calls for regular watering—twice weekly until established, then once weekly—so it is less suited to a hands-off, dry garden. No blossoms are expected; foliage is the main draw.
Pros:- Bright red foliage brings strong color to outdoor beds and containers.
- Grows in full sun to part shade.
- Listed as deer-resistant.
- Hardy in USDA zones 6–10.
Cons:- Needs frequent watering until established and continued weekly watering afterward.
- No blossoms are expected, so foliage provides the primary visual interest.
- Expected height is 48 in., with no mature width specified in the product data.
Best for: Gardeners in zones 6–10 who want red foliage in a landscape or container and need a deer-resistant option for sun or partial shade.
Not ideal for: Gardeners seeking a flowering shrub, a low-water planting, or a plant with a clearly stated compact mature width.
- Plant type:Evergreen shrub
- Container size:2 gal.
- Foliage color:Bright red
- USDA hardiness zones:6–10
- Expected plant height:48 in.
- Sun exposure:Full sun to part shade
- Soil type and moisture:Loam; moderate moisture
- Watering and deer resistance:Twice weekly until established, then once weekly; deer-resistant
Our verdict“Choose Obsession Nandina for red foliage and deer resistance in a moderately watered garden, but skip it if you need flowers or a clearly compact footprint.”
Forever Goldy Thuja Evergreen Shrub, 1-Gallon Pot
Forever Goldy Thuja is the pick for buyers drawn to gold foliage who want an upright evergreen rather than a spreading groundcover. Its foliage is described as holding its color year-round, while the Golden Pacific Juniper offers a lower, broader cascade that can reach 6–8 feet across. The thuja’s 10-foot expected height is the key planning detail: despite the compact-growth claims, it is not a truly miniature shrub and may outgrow a small patio container or low border. Once established, it tolerates heat and drought, but it needs regular watering beforehand and prefers well-draining acidic soil. It is listed for zones 5–8, giving it a colder range than Purple Daydream Loropetalum, though protection from harsh winter winds may be needed.
Pros:- Gold-yellow foliage is described as retaining its color year-round.
- Upright growth offers a different shape from the spreading Golden Pacific Juniper.
- Tolerates heat and drought once established.
- Listed for USDA zones 5–8.
Cons:- Expected height of 10 ft. is substantial for a product described as compact.
- Requires regular watering before establishment.
- Full sun, well-draining acidic soil, and protection from harsh winter winds may limit placement.
Best for: Gardeners in zones 5–8 who want year-round gold foliage in a sunny border and have room for a shrub that can reach 10 feet.
Not ideal for: Buyers needing a genuinely small patio plant, a part-shade shrub, or a plant for soil that does not drain well.
- Plant type:Evergreen shrub
- Container size:1 gallon (3 quart)
- Foliage color:Gold-yellow
- Expected height:10 ft.
- USDA hardiness zones:5–8
- Sunlight exposure:Full sun
- Soil type:Well-draining acidic soil
- Moisture needs:Regular watering
Our verdict“Pick Forever Goldy for an upright gold evergreen where there is room for its listed 10-foot height, but choose a smaller shrub for a tight container or border.”
How We Picked
I ranked these shrubs by how clearly each one answers a common garden need: screening, compact structure, groundcover, foliage color, or a distinctive flowering or foliage accent. I also weighed the usefulness of the stated plant form and container size, the likely effort involved in placing and maintaining the shrub, and how adaptable its role is across borders, foundation beds, and other planting situations. Because the listings do not provide a complete set of verified mature dimensions, hardiness details, or care requirements, I avoid treating those as settled facts and recommend checking them for your location before buying.
The top positions go to shrubs with a straightforward, useful role and broad planting potential, not simply the largest listing or the most unusual foliage. Compact and specialty selections rank well for the right job but lower overall because their usefulness is more specific. The lineup includes plants with varied growth habits and garden uses, so I compare them by fit rather than implying every shrub can replace another. I give each pick a distinct role to make the tradeoffs visible.
| evergreen shrub | Plant type |
|---|---|
| Perfect Plants Emerald Green A | Tree |
| Planet Earth Arborvitae | Evergreen shrub |
| Podocarpus Maki Live Plant | — |
| Perfect Plants Oakleaf Holly | Shrub and hedge |
| Procumbens Nana Juniper | Evergreen shrub |
| Perfect Plants Sunshine Ligust | Evergreen shrub |
| Eleanor Taber Indian Hawthorn | Evergreen shrub |
| Gold Mop False Cypress Shrub | Perennial shrub |
| Proven Winners Tater Tot Arbor | Evergreen shrub |
| Perfect Plants Frostproof Gard | Gardenia shrub |
| Proven Winners North Star Boxw | Shrub and hedge |
| Purple Daydream Loropetalum | Evergreen shrub |
| Garden Debut Golden Pacific Ju | Live evergreen shrub |
| Southern Living Obsession Nand | Evergreen shrub |
| Forever Goldy Thuja Evergreen | Evergreen shrub |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Best Evergreen Shrubs
Before choosing among these evergreen shrubs, start with the job the plant must do and the conditions it will face. A good match is about more than keeping leaves through winter: mature size, light, soil, climate, and upkeep determine whether the shrub will thrive in the space you have.
Match Mature Size to the Job
Decide whether you need a tall screen, a low border, a rounded accent, or ground-level coverage before comparing individual plants. A narrow upright shrub can make sense along a boundary, while a spreading juniper may cover a slope but leave a privacy gap. Check expected mature height and width from a reliable grower or regional extension source, not just the pot size shown in a listing. Crowding shrubs to get quick coverage often leads to repeated pruning, poor airflow, and plants competing for water. Allow space for the natural form, especially near paths, windows, and property lines. If you need an immediate screen, compare the cost and effort of buying larger stock with the time smaller plants need to fill in.
Check Climate and Exposure Before Foliage Color
Evergreen does not mean evergreen in every climate or on every site; winter cold, drying wind, intense sun, and summer heat can all affect foliage. Match a plant’s hardiness range to your local conditions and confirm whether it prefers full sun, partial shade, or protection from harsh afternoon exposure. A sunny nursery photo cannot tell you how a shrub will perform beside a hot wall or under tree roots. Gold and purple foliage can be a strong design feature, but color may vary with light and season. For an exposed site, prioritize local performance information over an eye-catching foliage description. When your garden sits near the edge of a plant’s recommended range, a locally proven alternative may be a safer choice.
Plan for Soil, Drainage, and Watering
Many shrub problems begin below ground, so check drainage before planting rather than assuming a new plant will adapt. Heavy, persistently wet soil can be a poor fit for shrubs that need well-drained conditions, while a dry slope may call for more frequent watering during establishment. Read care guidance for the exact variety, since broad labels such as evergreen or juniper do not describe every cultivar’s needs. Improve planting conditions without burying the root flare or creating a small amended pocket that holds water around the roots. Plan to water consistently while roots establish, then adjust based on rainfall, soil, and the plant’s condition. If you cannot provide regular establishment care, choose a location and planting time that reduce stress rather than relying on drought tolerance claims alone.
Choose a Maintenance Level You Can Keep Up With
A shrub’s natural shape affects the work it asks of you over time. Formal hedges and crisp foundation lines may need regular pruning, while naturally compact or spreading forms can reduce shaping but still require occasional cleanup. Think about whether you want a clipped outline or a looser landscape, and check whether the plant can be pruned without harming its growth habit. Flowering, fruiting, or colorful foliage can add seasonal interest, but may also mean additional cleanup or different pruning timing. Avoid planting a fast-growing screen where you cannot accommodate its mature spread. If low maintenance is the priority, favor a plant suited to the site and give it enough space rather than planning to control it with constant cutting.
Compare Container Size With Establishment Time
Pot size is a useful clue about the plant being shipped, but it is not a promise of a particular finished height or growth rate. Root condition, growing conditions, season, and handling during shipment all affect how quickly a shrub establishes. A larger container may give you a more substantial starting plant, yet it still needs careful planting and aftercare. Smaller plants can be easier to handle and may adapt well, but they can take longer to meet a screening or design goal. Compare the dimensions and condition described by the seller, and check what is included in the shipment before ordering. Choose based on the time you can wait and the size the site can accommodate, not container volume alone.
Use Evergreen Structure Alongside Seasonal Interest
Evergreen foliage gives a garden structure, but a planting made entirely of one foliage texture or color can feel flat. Combine upright, rounded, and spreading forms to create contrast without crowding plants together. Variegated or gold-toned shrubs work best when their color has room to read against darker foliage or a calm background. If flowers or seasonal color matter, treat them as an added feature rather than the only reason the shrub belongs in the design. Consider how the bed looks from indoors and during the quietest season, when surrounding perennials may have died back. A small number of thoughtfully placed evergreen forms can provide more visual order than a continuous row of mismatched shrubs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which evergreen shrub in this roundup is best for a privacy screen?
Perfect Plants Emerald Green Arborvitae is my best overall choice for a screen-oriented planting because its upright form is more aligned with that purpose than the low junipers or compact rounded shrubs. Before ordering, confirm the expected mature height and width for the exact plant and your region. A screen also depends on spacing, light, drainage, and enough room for roots and branches. If you need coverage at ground level or have limited width, a different growth habit may fit better. Do not plant a tight row based only on the plants’ current container size.
Can I grow these evergreen shrubs in containers?
Some compact shrubs can be considered for containers, but suitability depends on the cultivar’s eventual size, root behavior, and climate where the pot will sit. A pot restricts roots and dries out faster than garden soil, so watering and winter protection can require more attention. Check the plant’s care guidance and mature dimensions before choosing a container, and use a pot with drainage holes. Avoid selecting a plant solely because it arrives in a small nursery pot; that size is for shipping and growing, not a long-term container plan. If the shrub is intended to become a screen or large landscape specimen, planting it in the ground is usually a better match.
How many shrubs should I order to make a hedge?
There is no reliable number without the hedge’s length and the selected shrub’s recommended mature spacing. Measure the planting area, then use spacing guidance for the exact variety rather than placing plants shoulder to shoulder for instant coverage. Tight spacing can make a hedge fill in sooner but may increase competition and pruning needs as plants mature. Wider spacing takes patience and can leave temporary gaps, especially with smaller container plants. If the hedge must provide privacy on a specific timeline, compare mature plant sizes and growth rates from a dependable regional source before deciding how many to buy.
Which picks make sense if I want color beyond green foliage?
Sunshine Ligustrum, Gold Mop False Cypress, Purple Daydream Loropetalum, and Forever Goldy Thuja offer foliage color that can give a planting more contrast than a row of green shrubs. Their color and overall performance depend on the plant’s light and climate conditions, so verify local growing guidance before choosing a spot. Use brighter foliage as an accent or repeat it in a few places rather than scattering many unrelated colors through one bed. Consider what the color will look like beside your home, paving, and nearby plants. If reliable screening is the main goal, choose first for size and form, then add a colorful shrub elsewhere.
What should I check before ordering a live shrub online?
Review the seller’s stated plant size, container size, shipping season, and description of the plant’s condition at arrival. Confirm that the cultivar name is specific, then check its mature dimensions, light preferences, and climate range with a reliable source. Look for clear guidance on what to do if a shipment arrives damaged and how quickly the plant should be unpacked and watered. Have a suitable planting location ready so the shrub does not sit in its shipping container longer than needed. Online listings can describe a starting plant, but they cannot replace a site-specific check of soil, exposure, and available space.
Conclusion
For the broadest range of landscape uses, I recommend Perfect Plants Emerald Green Arborvitae as the best overall, especially when an upright screen or structured planting is the goal. Procumbens Nana Juniper is my best value-style pick for a specific job: low, spreading coverage where height is not needed. For a premium-looking focal point, consider Forever Goldy Thuja when its distinctive color and form suit the design; for beginners who want a compact, defined shape, Proven Winners Tater Tot Arborvitae is a more approachable starting point than a large hedge plan. Choose Golden Pacific Juniper or Procumbens Nana for low coverage, North Star Boxwood for a compact formal shape, and the colorful selections for foliage contrast. Before buying any of them, verify mature dimensions and local growing requirements so the shrub fits both your garden and your maintenance routine.
