Tree service experts of Florida share a list of evergreens that thrive as privacy hedges.
5 Easy Maintenance Evergreens That Love Florida’s Climate
When you think of the sunny and warm Florida landscape, evergreen trees may not be the first trees to come to your mind. There are quite a variety of evergreens that can thrive even in a climate as warm as ours. The list below outlines the basic appeal of five low-maintenance trees that can be used to create a natural privacy screen. Due to the nature of evergreens, this privacy will last year-round.
Arborvitae
There are several varieties of the arborvitae or thuja tree. Some are cold tolerant but do not do as well in the heat. The specific species Platycladus orientalis grows quite well throughout the state.
- Appeal: Grows quickly and thick with feathery foliage, bold statement tree alone or in groups
- Distance Apart for Privacy Screen: 8 feet
- Sun and Soil Preference: Full sun and well-drained soil
- Resistance: Drought, salt
Bay Laurel
Thriving throughout the state, the bay laurel is a hardy shrub that grows to about 12 feet tall. Its leaves are often used as a seasoning for soups and meats. Though its flowers are small, it is an attractive evergreen with its leathery leaves and pleasing fragrance.
- Appeal: Aromatic leaves, yellow flowers, and black fruits
- Distance Apart for Privacy Screen: 3-5 feet
- Sun and Soil Preference: Adaptable sun preferences, prefers moist well-drained soils
- Resistance: Heat, humidity
Gardenia
Most people in this area of the country will recognize the ostentatiously fragrant white flowers that the gardenia shrub is known for. The gardenia has no rival for beauty and scent. It is an evergreen that thrives throughout Florida and the South. It is small, growing to only around 8 feet tall.
- Appeal: Fragrant white flowers and attractive, glossy, dark green leaves.
- Distance Apart for Privacy Screen: 3 feet
- Sun and Soil Preference: Partial sun to partial shade, well-drained nutrient-rich soil
- Resistance: Heat, humidity
Leyland Cypress
The towering top of the leyland cypress can reach heights of 50 feet and grows fairly quickly in a pyramidal shape typical of evergreens. This type of cypress does well in any part of the state and is highly adaptable. Its dense, feathery foliage makes a great screen.
- Appeal: Tall, stately, strong, and easy to manage
- Distance Apart for Privacy Screen: 10 feet
- Sun and Soil Preference: Adaptable to sun and soil
- Resistance: Salt, drought, heat
Podocarpus
Also called the yew podocarpus, this tree can grow up to 40 feet high and 20 feet wide but is easily adapted to a formal-looking hedge. Its narrow leaves grow in dense spirals around the branches and make great privacy hedges. Its growth rate is moderate, so it is not the choice if you want a privacy screen right away.
- Appeal: Dense blade-like leaves
- Distance Apart for Privacy Screen: 5-8 feet
- Sun and Soil Preference: Full sun to partial shade, well-drained soil
- Resistance: Salt, drought, and heat
About Any Town Tree
Though Any Town Tree is ready to serve Naples and the surrounding areas with tree trimming, tree removal and stump grinding, we are also ready to help you build your garden and take your tree health care seriously. Call us today for a free estimate.