Fast-growing Evergreen Eco Hedge Collection

This is a collection of 5 varieties of evergreen shrubs with fast growth, that are easy to cultivate and maintain, and tolerant of pruning. They are delivered in a kit of 10 young plants (2 plants of each species). They are perfect for creating a windbreak and privacy hedge that will protect your garden from prying eyes and bad weather. Their flowers are fragrant and attractive to bees, and their fruits are appreciated by birds. One kit of ten plants allows for the creation of approximately 10 metres (33 feet) of hedge at a lower cost.

The collection consists of:

- 2 Ligustrum vulgare or common privet: a bushy and branching habit, it can reach a height of 2 to 3 metres (7 to 10 feet) with a width of 1.50 to 2 metres (5 to 7 feet). Dark green foliage, more or less evergreen depending on the climate. Flowers in June-July, on unpruned specimens, with very fragrant and intensely honey-scented white cream panicles. Pretty spherical berries turning black and shiny in autumn.

- 2 Elaeagnus ebbingei - Oleaster : on average 3 m (10ft) tall by 1.50 m (5ft) wide. It is appreciated for the beauty of its silvery leaves, but also for its autumn flowering, with cream-white bell-shaped flowers with a sweet fragrance. Its fruits are edible and decorative, similar to small copper and silvery olives. 

- 2 Photinia Red Robin: on average 3 metres (10 feet) tall and 2 metres (7 feet) wide without pruning, it stands out for its red young shoots and leaves, contrasting with its mature foliage which is shiny dark green. Spring flowering (from March to May depending on the regions), with small flowers that are fragrant and attractive to bees.

- 2 Prunus laurocerasus Caucasica (Cherry Laurel): Large shrub of approximately 4 to 5 metres (13 to 16 feet) tall if not pruned, with a naturally conical habit and abundant, shiny green evergreen foliage.

- 2 Cupressocyparis leylandii (Leyland Cypress): A large dense conifer that grows rapidly and allows for the creation of an effective screen against wind and prying eyes in a few years. It is undemanding in terms of soil and adapts to most climates, even in coastal areas.

Plant these bushes preferably in autumn or early spring, in full sun or partial shade, mixing them and spacing them 80 cm (32in) to 1 metre (3 feet) apart. They are content with any well-prepared garden soil enriched with leaf compost. 

Tip: Do not prune at the beginning of the season to fully enjoy the flowering! If possible, also avoid pruning in late summer to enjoy the fruits and feed the birds in the garden during winter.