Finding the right plants to hide an AC unit involves balancing aesthetic appeal with practicality. The Perfect Plants Thuja Green Giant stands out as the best overall choice thanks to its fast growth and dense evergreen foliage. For those seeking a budget-friendly option, the Waxleaf Privet offers excellent privacy coverage without breaking the bank. Meanwhile, the Podocarpus Maki provides a versatile option that works well indoors and outdoors, but it requires more careful maintenance. The main challenge in this category is choosing plants that grow quickly yet require manageable care, so you get effective coverage without excessive upkeep. Continue reading for a detailed comparison of these top selections and expert tips on making the best choice for your landscape.
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Key Takeaways
- Evergreen trees like Thuja Green Giant offer year-round coverage and quick growth, making them ideal for permanent screening.
- Shrubs such as Waxleaf Privet provide dense foliage that maintains privacy but may need regular trimming to stay neat.
- Ground covers like Asiatic Jasmine can be low-maintenance options that soften the landscape and hide smaller units but are less effective for large ACs.
- Plant size and maturity at purchase significantly impact how quickly your screen develops; larger plants grow faster but cost more upfront.
- Choosing plants suited to your climate and soil conditions ensures healthier growth and reduces long-term maintenance.
| Perfect Plants Thuja Green Giant 3 Gallon Live Evergreen Tree for Landscaping & Privacy |  | Best Overall for Rapid Privacy and Landscape Versatility | Growth Rate: 3 feet per year | Mature Size: 40 feet tall, 20 feet wide | Hardiness Zones: 5-9 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Waxleaf Privet – 30 Live Plants – Evergreen Privacy Hedge Shrub |  | Best Value for Shaping a Dense, Customizable Hedge | Sunlight Exposure: Full Sun | Soil Type: Sandy Soil | Moisture Needs: Regular Watering | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Perfect Plants Thuja Green Giant Arborvitae, 1 Gallon, Privacy Trees |  | Best for Fast Privacy Growth in Larger Spaces | Size: 1 Gallon | Growth Rate: 3-5 feet per year | Mature Height: Up to 60 ft | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Ligustrum Waxleaf Privet – 20 Live Plants – Evergreen Privacy Hedge |  | Best for Dense, Low-Maintenance Privacy in Varied Climates | Type: Live Plants | Quantity: 20 | Plant Height: 8-10 feet | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Thuja Green Giant | 10 Live Trees | Thuja standishii x plicata | Fast Growing Privacy Screen | Evergreen Landscape Plants for Borders |  | Best for Large-Scale Privacy in Commercial or Spacious Yards | Type: Live Trees | Quantity: 10 | Species: Thuja standishii x plicata | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Southern Living 2 Gal. Obsession Nandina Shrub |  | Best for Year-Round Color and Low Maintenance | Size: 2 gallons | Plant Type: Nandina shrub | USDA Zones: 6-10 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Asiatic Jasmine Live Plants, 3-inch Pots, Evergreen Ground Cover (18 Count) |  | Best for Fast-Growing, Low-Maintenance Ground Cover | Quantity: 18 plants | Pot Size: 3 inches | Plant Type: Asiatic Jasmine | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Podocarpus Maki in 1 Gallon Pot – Evergreen Hedge Plant for Outdoor and Indoor Use |  | Best for Structured, Low-Maintenance Screening | Size: 8–10 feet tall, 3–4 feet wide | Growth habit: Upright, dense | Foliage: Glossy dark green | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Perfect Plants Thuja Green Giant 3 Gallon Live Evergreen Tree for Landscaping & Privacy
The Thuja Green Giant 3-gallon tree stands out for its rapid growth rate of up to 3 feet per year, making it ideal for quickly blocking views of an AC unit. Compared with the larger, more mature Thuja Green Giant Arborvitae, this younger plant offers faster initial privacy but will require patience as it matures. Its deer resistance and drought tolerance add to its appeal, though its need for well-drained soil means it’s less suited for very wet or poorly drained sites. This pick makes the most sense for homeowners seeking a quick, low-maintenance privacy barrier that can be transplanted into the yard, especially where space allows for eventual full growth. The main tradeoff is that it cannot be shipped to California or Arizona, limiting availability in some regions.Pros:- Fast-growing, providing quick privacy
- Deer-resistant and drought-tolerant for low maintenance
- Versatile for landscaping and privacy needs
Cons:- Requires well-drained soil for optimal growth
- Cannot be shipped to California or Arizona
Best for: Homeowners wanting rapid privacy screening with minimal upkeep in zones 5-9
Not ideal for: Those with very small yards or limited space, since the tree will reach 40 feet at full maturity
- Growth Rate:3 feet per year
- Mature Size:40 feet tall, 20 feet wide
- Hardiness Zones:5-9
- Container Size:3 gallons
- Planting Time:Spring
Our verdict“This tree is best suited for homeowners seeking fast, reliable privacy with low ongoing care in suitable zones.”
Waxleaf Privet – 30 Live Plants – Evergreen Privacy Hedge Shrub
The Waxleaf Privet offers a flexible solution for creating a dense privacy screen, with the ability to prune into formal shapes or small trees. Unlike the larger Thuja options, it can be kept more manageable at 8-10 feet tall, making it suitable for smaller yards or closer to structures. Its glossy foliage and fragrant blooms add visual appeal, but it demands regular watering, especially during the initial establishment phase. Pruning 2-3 times per year is necessary to maintain a tidy shape, which might be a downside for those preferring low-maintenance plants. This shrub makes the most sense for gardeners who want a customizable, evergreen hedge that can be shaped to fit tight spaces, though it requires consistent care.Pros:- Fast-growing and highly adaptable for shaping
- Evergreen foliage provides year-round privacy
- Fragrant white blooms enhance visual appeal
Cons:- Requires regular watering during establishment
- Needs pruning 2-3 times annually to maintain shape
Best for: Gardeners seeking a versatile, low-cost privacy hedge that can be shaped or maintained at smaller sizes
Not ideal for: Drought-prone areas or those unwilling to prune regularly, as the plant needs consistent watering and trimming
- Sunlight Exposure:Full Sun
- Soil Type:Sandy Soil
- Moisture Needs:Regular Watering
- Item Weight:5 pounds
- Unit Count:30
- Number of Pieces:30
Our verdict“This shrub is ideal for those wanting a customizable, evergreen privacy hedge willing to commit to regular maintenance.”
Perfect Plants Thuja Green Giant Arborvitae, 1 Gallon, Privacy Trees
The Thuja Green Giant Arborvitae in a 1-gallon size offers a quick start for privacy screens, with growth rates of 3-5 feet annually. Compared with the larger 3-gallon version, this smaller plant will take longer to reach full height but is easier to transplant and manage early on. Its dense, dark green foliage provides a pleasing, consistent appearance, and once established, it requires minimal care. The potential downside is its size at maturity—up to 60 feet tall—meaning space and pruning are necessary for smaller yards. This choice makes sense for garden owners who want to start with smaller plants that grow into a substantial privacy barrier over a few years.Pros:- Fast-growing with 3-5 feet per year
- Dense, dark green foliage for year-round privacy
- Low maintenance once established
Cons:- May need regular pruning to control size
- Potentially large at full height, requiring space
Best for: Property owners seeking a fast-growing, low-maintenance privacy tree that can be started in smaller spaces
Not ideal for: Small yards or urban spaces where height may become unmanageable without regular pruning
- Size:1 Gallon
- Growth Rate:3-5 feet per year
- Mature Height:Up to 60 ft
- Mature Width:Up to 20 ft
- Zones:5-9
Our verdict“This tree is suited for those who want a quick-start privacy solution that can grow into a tall, dense screen over time.”
Ligustrum Waxleaf Privet – 20 Live Plants – Evergreen Privacy Hedge
The Ligustrum Waxleaf Privet shines as a dense, evergreen shrub that grows 8-10 feet tall, offering effective privacy in a compact form. It responds well to pruning, making it suitable for shaping a tight hedge or even topiary, unlike the more rigid Thuja or larger trees. Its glossy, waxy leaves add a refined look, and it performs reliably across different climates with minimal care. Unlike the larger Thuja options, it requires regular pruning—about 2-3 times annually—to stay neat. Its dense foliage and year-round greenery make it a practical choice for smaller yards or spaces where a quick, tidy privacy barrier is needed, but it does need consistent watering during dry spells.Pros:- Fast-growing and dense for effective privacy
- Low-maintenance and adaptable
- Evergreen foliage provides all-year coverage
Cons:- Requires regular watering during dry periods
- Needs pruning multiple times per year
Best for: Urban or suburban gardeners wanting a dense, evergreen hedge that’s easy to shape and maintain
Not ideal for: Dry or neglected sites where watering and pruning are inconsistent, as the plant needs care to stay dense
- Type:Live Plants
- Quantity:20
- Plant Height:8-10 feet
- Growth Habit:Upright, dense, bushy
- Foliage:Dark green and bright green glossy leaves
- Bloom Color:Creamy-white
Our verdict“This shrub is perfect for gardeners wanting a dense, evergreen privacy hedge with moderate maintenance requirements.”
Thuja Green Giant | 10 Live Trees | Thuja standishii x plicata | Fast Growing Privacy Screen | Evergreen Landscape Plants for Borders
The Thuja Green Giant in a 10-tree set is designed for creating expansive privacy screens and borders. Its rapid growth, often exceeding 3 feet annually, makes it ideal for quickly establishing a tall, dense barrier. Compared with the smaller, 3-gallon version, these larger trees are ready for immediate planting in spacious yards or commercial landscapes. They maintain a dense, green appearance year-round, and require minimal care once established. The main consideration is their size—potentially over 60 feet tall—so space and pruning become critical for maintaining a desired shape or height. This set appeals most to those planting for large-scale privacy or landscaping projects where immediate impact is desired.Pros:- Very fast-growing and tall, ideal for immediate privacy
- Maintains dense green foliage year-round
- Suitable for large-scale landscaping and commercial use
Cons:- May require pruning to control size and shape
- Large size might demand significant space and planning
Best for: Large property owners or landscapers needing quick, tall privacy screens over wide areas
Not ideal for: Small yards or urban gardens where height and space constraints make such large trees impractical
- Type:Live Trees
- Quantity:10
- Species:Thuja standishii x plicata
- Growth Rate:Fast
- Seasonal Foliage:Evergreen
Our verdict“This product suits those wanting an instant, tall privacy barrier over large areas with minimal ongoing effort.”
Southern Living 2 Gal. Obsession Nandina Shrub
The Southern Living Obsession Nandina stands out for its vibrant foliage that changes color throughout all seasons, making it an attractive choice for hiding AC units without the need for constant upkeep. Compared to the Podocarpus Maki, which offers a more formal, dense appearance, the Nandina provides a softer, more ornamental look, though it requires regular watering until established—something to consider if watering resources are limited. Its low maintenance nature makes it suitable for gardeners seeking a reliable, aesthetic shrub, but limited details on its mature size mean it might not grow as large as some other options. This shrub suits those who want a splash of color year-round and have moderate watering capacity, especially in USDA zones 6-10. BestFor: Homeowners wanting a colorful, low-effort shrub to conceal their AC units. NotIdealFor: Those seeking a fast-growing, large shrub or with very dry conditions.
- Beautiful leaf color year-round
- Low maintenance and easy to care for
- Suitable for a range of USDA zones
- Requires regular watering until established
- Limited information on mature size or growth rate
Verdict: This shrub is ideal for gardeners wanting seasonal color and moderate care, but it may need patience to reach full size.
- Size:2 gallons
- Plant Type:Nandina shrub
- USDA Zones:6-10
- Watering:Twice per week until established, then once per week
Our verdict“Best for Year-Round Color and Low Maintenance — a strong pick in this lineup.”
Asiatic Jasmine Live Plants, 3-inch Pots, Evergreen Ground Cover (18 Count)
The Asiatic Jasmine set offers a dense, evergreen ground cover that is perfect for hiding the lower part of an AC unit, especially if you prefer a lush, uniform appearance. Compared with the Podocarpus Maki, which grows taller and provides structure, the Jasmine remains low and spreads quickly, making it easier to achieve quick coverage. Its minimal care needs and tolerance for diverse soil conditions make it suitable for DIY landscapers, but it might require regular watering during establishment—something to plan for if water conservation is a concern. Since it stays low at 6-8 inches, it’s less suited for hiding taller units or creating vertical screens. This pick is best for those who want rapid, low-effort coverage at ground level in zones suitable for evergreen foliage. BestFor: Landscape enthusiasts seeking quick, evergreen ground cover for hiding AC units. NotIdealFor: Those needing tall or vertical hedges or with very dry soils.
- Easy to maintain and low care requirements
- Versatile for different landscaping needs
- Year-round glossy green foliage
- May require regular watering during establishment
- Limited height for taller landscape features
Verdict: This ground cover works well for quick, low-maintenance hiding of AC units at ground level, but it won’t create vertical concealment.
- Quantity:18 plants
- Pot Size:3 inches
- Plant Type:Asiatic Jasmine
- Growth Habit:Fast-growing evergreen vine
- Height:6-8 inches
- Coverage:Ground cover
Our verdict“Best for Fast-Growing, Low-Maintenance Ground Cover — a strong pick in this lineup.”
Podocarpus Maki in 1 Gallon Pot – Evergreen Hedge Plant for Outdoor and Indoor Use
The Podocarpus Maki offers a dense, upright growth form that makes it ideal for creating a vertical screen around an AC unit, especially if you want a more polished, formal look. Its glossy dark green foliage and columnar shape set it apart from the more sprawling Asiatic Jasmine, which is better for ground coverage. However, its height of 8-10 feet means it’s less suitable for small gardens or units that are lower to the ground, and it requires full sun to partial shade—limiting placement options. Compared with the Nandina, which provides seasonal color and easier maintenance, the Podocarpus is more about structure and permanence, but it’s less forgiving in shaded or dry conditions. This shrub is perfect for those wanting a sleek privacy barrier or vertical concealment in suitable zones. BestFor: Gardeners seeking a formal, low-maintenance hedge to hide taller AC units in full sun. NotIdealFor: Small spaces or shaded areas, due to its height and sun requirements.
- Drought-tolerant and low maintenance
- Highly resistant to pests and diseases
- Polished, columnar form requires minimal pruning
- Does not ship to California or Arizona
- Grows to 8-10 feet, which might be large for small gardens
- Requires full sun to partial shade
Verdict: This shrub is perfect for those wanting a durable, sleek screen for taller AC units in sunny locations, but it’s less suited for small or shaded gardens.
- Size:8–10 feet tall, 3–4 feet wide
- Growth habit:Upright, dense
- Foliage:Glossy dark green
- Zones:7–11
- Sunlight:Full sun to partial shade
- Soil:Well-draining
- Maintenance:Low
Our verdict“Best for Structured, Low-Maintenance Screening — a strong pick in this lineup.”
How We Picked
To evaluate these plants, I considered their growth rate, density, year-round foliage, ease of maintenance, and adaptability to different climates. I prioritized options that provide immediate privacy while remaining manageable for typical homeowners. Cost was also a factor, especially for those seeking a balance between affordability and quality. The ranking reflects a combination of these criteria, with the top picks excelling in both coverage and ease of care, and others offering specialized benefits or value. Plants that require extensive pruning or are slow-growing were ranked lower, as they do not meet the primary goal of quick, effective screening.Factors to Consider When Choosing Best Plants For Hiding AC Units
Choosing the best plants for hiding your AC unit involves understanding several key factors that influence both the immediate visual impact and ongoing maintenance. It’s important to match plant choices with your climate, soil, and aesthetic preferences. Additionally, considering growth speed and size helps determine how quickly your landscape will offer privacy. These considerations can prevent common mistakes like underestimating mature size or selecting plants unsuitable for your environment, which leads to wasted effort and expense.Growth Rate and Maturity
Plants that grow quickly help you achieve privacy faster, especially if your AC unit is new or you want an instant improvement. Look for species with a proven rapid growth rate, and consider how large they will be at maturity. Keep in mind that faster-growing plants may require more frequent pruning to maintain their shape and prevent overpowering the space. Choosing a plant that reaches the desired size in a reasonable timeframe balances immediate results with long-term upkeep.
Climate and Soil Compatibility
Ensuring your selected plants are suited to your local climate and soil conditions is vital for healthy growth. Some species thrive in full sun, while others prefer partial shade; soil drainage and fertility also affect plant health. Avoid choosing plants that need extensive care or special conditions if you’re looking for low-maintenance options. Proper compatibility reduces the risk of disease, pest issues, and plant death, ultimately saving time and money.
Size and Maturity
Understanding how large your plants will be at maturity prevents surprises and overcrowding. Larger plants cost more upfront but can provide instant screening, whereas smaller plants are more affordable but take years to grow into a full screen. Consider your space limitations and the visual impact you want, and select plants that align with your timeline and budget. Remember, some plants may need staking or support as they grow, especially in windy areas.
Maintenance Needs
Different plants demand varying levels of care. Evergreen trees and shrubs may require regular pruning to maintain shape, while ground covers like Asiatic Jasmine generally need less attention. Be honest about how much time you can dedicate to trimming, watering, or fertilizing. Choosing low-maintenance plants ensures your landscape remains attractive without extra effort, especially if you’re not experienced with gardening.
Aesthetic and Year-Round Coverage
For consistent privacy, select plants that provide dense foliage throughout all seasons. Evergreen species are preferred for year-round coverage, but consider their growth habit and texture to match your landscape style. Mixing different types can add visual interest while maintaining privacy. Avoid plants that lose foliage in winter unless you’re okay with seasonal gaps in coverage, which may require supplementary screening.
Frequently Asked Questions
How fast do these plants typically grow, and which is fastest for screening?
Most of the recommended plants, like the Thuja Green Giant and Waxleaf Privet, are known for their rapid growth, often reaching their mature size within 3-5 years. The Thuja Green Giant, in particular, is celebrated for its quick height increase, making it an excellent choice if you want immediate privacy. However, faster growth can mean more frequent trimming and higher maintenance, so consider whether you prefer rapid results or a more manageable, slower-growing plant.
Are evergreen plants suitable for all climates?
While many evergreen species like Thuja Green Giant and Podocarpus Maki are adaptable to a range of climates, they still have specific needs. For instance, some may tolerate colder temperatures, but others may struggle in hot, dry environments. Always check the hardiness zone recommendations for each plant and choose those suited to your local climate to ensure healthy, sustainable growth with minimal effort.
Can I plant these plants myself, or should I hire a professional?
Many of these plants, especially smaller ones or containers like Podocarpus Maki, are suitable for DIY planting if you have some gardening experience. Larger plants like Thuja Green Giant or Privets may benefit from professional planting to ensure proper placement, soil preparation, and support. For beginners, starting with smaller plants and learning basic planting techniques can be effective, but for larger or more delicate species, professional help reduces the risk of mistakes and promotes healthier growth.
How much maintenance do these plants require over time?
Maintenance varies widely among these options. Evergreen trees like Thuja Green Giant generally need annual pruning to maintain shape, while ground covers like Asiatic Jasmine require minimal trimming. Shrubs like Privet may need regular trimming to prevent overgrowth and keep them tidy. Consider your willingness and capacity for ongoing care—choosing lower-maintenance plants can save time and effort in the long run.
What is the best way to ensure my plants grow evenly and stay healthy?
Proper planting techniques, including adequate spacing, soil preparation, and watering, are key to healthy growth. Regular inspection for pests and diseases, along with appropriate fertilization, supports vigorous development. Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Consistent pruning encourages dense growth and shapes the plants, ensuring they develop into an effective privacy screen while remaining healthy.
Conclusion
For those seeking an all-around effective, low-maintenance solution, the Perfect Plants Thuja Green Giant offers rapid, year-round coverage and grows well in various climates—making it the best overall choice. Budget-conscious buyers will appreciate the Waxleaf Privet for its affordability and dense foliage, providing excellent privacy without high costs. Gardeners new to planting should consider the Podocarpus Maki, which is versatile and easier to manage with proper care. For homeowners prioritizing immediate screening, larger plants like Thuja Green Giant are ideal, while ground covers like Asiatic Jasmine suit smaller spaces and low-maintenance preferences. Ultimately, your choice depends on your climate, budget, and how much effort you’re willing to put into maintenance.
