Hedging Plants

For privacy hedging in New Zealand, the best options include Griselinia littoralis, Photinia Red Robin, and Camellia sasanqua. These species grow dense, tall foliage that provides an effective year-round screen. Griselinia is especially popular as it's a hardy NZ native that thrives in most conditions, while Photinia adds a splash of vibrant red new growth. For a formal look, Pittosporum tenuifolium is another excellent choice that clips beautifully into a tight, dense hedge.

Michelia and Griselinia are among the fastest growing hedge plants in New Zealand. Michelia varieties such as Fairy Magnolia can grow up to 1 metre per year in ideal conditions, producing a lush evergreen screen with beautifully fragrant flowers. Griselinia littoralis is another fast grower, putting on 30–50cm per year and forming a thick, dense hedge relatively quickly. Other fast options include Photinia Red Robin and Pittosporum eugenioides (Lemonwood), both of which establish rapidly when planted in quality soil with good drainage.

Pittosporum crassifolium (Karo) is one of the best hedging plants for coastal areas in New Zealand. It's exceptionally tolerant of salt spray, wind, and sandy soils, making it a top choice for seaside properties. Other excellent coastal hedge options include Griselinia littoralis, Coprosma repens Inferno, and Syzygium Resilience Lily Pilly. These species are all well-adapted to harsh coastal conditions and will form dense, resilient hedges that provide shelter from prevailing winds.

Hedge plant spacing depends on the species and the size of the plants at purchase. As a general guide, most hedge plants should be spaced 60cm to 1 metre apart. Smaller species like Buxus can be planted as close as 30–40cm apart, while larger growing hedges like Griselinia or Photinia are best at 80cm–1m spacing. For a quicker, denser result, plant slightly closer together. If you're working with a budget, wider spacing will fill in over time. Always consider the mature width of the plant when planning your spacing.

Griselinia littoralis is widely regarded as the best low maintenance hedge in New Zealand. It requires minimal trimming — typically just once or twice a year — and is resistant to most pests and diseases. Photinia Red Robin is another excellent low maintenance option, as is Pittosporum tenuifolium, which holds its shape well without frequent clipping. For an informal, colourful hedge that rarely needs pruning, consider Coprosma repens Inferno or Buxus varieties. These species are all drought-tolerant once established and require very little ongoing care.

Buxus (Box hedge) is the ideal choice for small gardens in New Zealand. Buxus varieties such as Buxus microphylla and Buxus sempervirens stay compact, grow slowly, and can be clipped into neat, formal shapes — perfect for borders, edging, and small defined spaces. Buxus Green Gem is particularly well-suited, staying naturally compact at around 1m tall. Other great options for small gardens include Loropetalum Fire Dance for vibrant colour, and Viburnum Eve Price for fragrant flowers without taking up too much space. For a slightly taller but still narrow option, Camellia sasanqua can be kept trimmed to a slim profile.