34 Beautiful Fast Growing Shrubs With Thorns 

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When it comes to the defense of your homes, shrubs with thorns are sure to do the trick, and most owners would prefer to get shrubs that can b able to grow vastly because the earlier, the better.

But unfortunately, while your home might have already had several security measures put in place for burglars, this security might not be able to stop the invasion of cats and rats hence, these plants. 

The good news is that there are some fast growing shrubs with thorns that will protect your valuable properties, such as the holly plant, buckthorns, bougainvillea, firethorns, etc.

In this article, we will discuss several ways you can protect the privacy of your home with these fantastic shrubs.

Benefits of Shrubs with Thorns

In our society, security is vital for protecting yourself, your family, and your properties. However, balancing your social life with your security need might be difficult with several other measures.

For instance, it might be impenetrable if you decide to use a concrete hedge around your home. Still, it would destroy your curb appeal and home view; even worse, your relationship with your neighbors would be on the line. 

So, some advantages you would be getting if you make use of shrubs for protection include:

See Also: Plants With Thorns On Leaves

Blending Into Your Landscape

When you make thick hedges with certain colorful thorny plants, it can blend your flowers with your landscape and create a beautiful appeal to your environment while protecting your property.

These thorny hedges would keep growing, and if pruned carefully, you can also give them whatever shape you want. 

Fast Growth

If a part of the shrub gets cut off or destroyed by mistake, you shouldn’t bother because due to their fast-growing nature, they would be able to grow back in no time if given adequate sunlight, water, and the correct requirements. 

Fast Growing Shrubs with Thorns 

Before planting your shrubs, you should consider certain factors, like your property boundaries, and also notice any weak spots in your garden. If your yard is not so big, you should ensure that you prune it correctly so it doesn’t cause harm to people who do not deserve it. Some of these shrubs include:

1. Osage Orange (Maclura pomifera)

  • Type of plant: Deciduous shrub/tree
  • Geographic Origin: North America
  • Plant Size: Up to 40-60 feet tall
  • Sun Exposure: Full sun
  • Plant Zone: 4-9

Osage Orange is a fast-growing, thorny plant that can serve multiple purposes in a garden or landscape. It is native to North America and was historically used by Native Americans to make bows due to its strong, flexible wood.

The plant produces large, green, wrinkled fruits that are inedible but often used for decorative purposes. Osage Orange is well-known for its dense, thorny branches, which make it an excellent choice for creating natural fencing and security barriers.

This plant thrives in full sun and can adapt to a variety of soil types, making it a hardy and versatile addition to any garden. It also provides habitat and food for wildlife, including birds and small mammals.

2. Japanese Barberry (Berberis thunbergii)

  • Type of plant: Deciduous shrub
  • Geographic Origin: Japan
  • Plant Size: 3-6 feet tall
  • Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
  • Plant Zone: 4-8

Japanese Barberry is a popular ornamental shrub known for its vibrant red berries and thorny branches. This plant is highly adaptable and can thrive in a range of soil conditions, making it a versatile choice for many landscapes.

It is drought-tolerant once established and requires minimal maintenance. However, Japanese Barberry is considered invasive in some regions due to its ability to spread rapidly and outcompete native vegetation.

Its dense, thorny growth makes it an excellent choice for hedges and barriers, providing both aesthetic appeal and security. The plant also offers seasonal interest with its colorful foliage, which changes from green to shades of red, orange, and purple in the fall.

3. English Hawthorn (Crataegus laevigata)

  • Type of plant: Deciduous shrub/tree
  • Geographic Origin: Europe
  • Plant Size: 15-25 feet tall
  • Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
  • Plant Zone: 4-8

English Hawthorn is a versatile and resilient plant that can be grown as either a shrub or small tree. It produces beautiful white or pink flowers in the spring, followed by red berries in the fall.

The thorny branches of English Hawthorn make it an excellent choice for creating natural hedges and wildlife habitats. This plant is also valued for its medicinal properties, particularly in supporting cardiovascular health.

English Hawthorn is relatively low-maintenance and can thrive in a variety of soil types, provided it receives adequate sunlight. It is also tolerant of urban pollution, making it a good choice for city gardens and landscapes.

4. Candy Oh Rose (Rosa ‘ZLEMarianneYoshida’)

  • Type of plant: Deciduous shrub
  • Geographic Origin: North America (cultivar)
  • Plant Size: 3-4 feet tall
  • Sun Exposure: Full sun
  • Plant Zone: 4-9

Candy Oh Rose is a vibrant and hardy rose variety that is prized for its continuous blooming and disease resistance. This shrub produces bright red flowers that add a splash of color to any garden from spring through fall.

The thorny stems of Candy Oh Rose provide a natural deterrent to pests and intruders, making it a good choice for borders and hedges.

This plant is relatively low-maintenance and can thrive in a variety of soil conditions, provided it receives full sun.

5. Rainbow Knockout Rose (Rosa ‘Radcor’)

  • Type of plant: Deciduous shrub
  • Geographic Origin: North America (cultivar)
  • Plant Size: 4-5 feet tall
  • Sun Exposure: Full sun
  • Plant Zone: 5-9

Rainbow Knockout Rose is a popular rose variety known for its vibrant, multicolored blooms that range from pink to coral. This plant is highly resistant to common rose diseases, making it a low-maintenance option for gardeners.

The thorny stems of Rainbow Knockout Rose provide natural protection, making it suitable for use as a security hedge or border plant.

This rose thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, and it benefits from constant pruning to encourage new growth and more abundant flowering. Its continuous blooming throughout the growing season makes it a standout addition to any garden.

6. Blushing Knockout Rose (Rosa ‘Radyod’)

  • Type of plant: Deciduous shrub
  • Geographic Origin: North America (cultivar)
  • Plant Size: 3-4 feet tall
  • Sun Exposure: Full sun
  • Plant Zone: 5-9

Blushing Knockout Rose is a beautiful and hardy rose variety known for its soft pink blooms that fade to a lighter hue as they age. This plant is highly resistant to diseases and pests, making it a low-maintenance option for gardeners.

The thorny stems of Blushing Knockout Rose provide natural protection, making it a good choice for borders and hedges.

This rose thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, and it benefits from regular pruning to maintain its shape and encourage more prolific blooming. Its continuous flowering throughout the growing season makes it a favorite among gardeners looking for a reliable and attractive plant.

7. Chinese Holly (Ilex cornuta)

  • Type of plant: Evergreen shrub
  • Geographic Origin: China, Korea
  • Plant Size: 6-15 feet tall
  • Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
  • Plant Zone: 7-9

Chinese Holly is an evergreen shrub known for its glossy, spiny leaves and bright red berries. This plant is often used for hedging and as a decorative plant during the holiday season.

Chinese Holly thrives in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. It is relatively low-maintenance and can tolerate a range of soil conditions, making it a versatile choice for landscapes.

The dense, thorny foliage of Chinese Holly provides excellent privacy and security, making it an ideal choice for natural barriers and hedges. The bright red berries are not only visually appealing but also provide food for birds and other wildlife during the winter months.

8. Firethorn (Pyracantha coccinea)

  • Type of plant: Evergreen shrub
  • Geographic Origin: Southern Europe, Asia
  • Plant Size: 6-18 feet tall
  • Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
  • Plant Zone: 6-9

Firethorn is a vigorous, fast-growing shrub that is well-known for its glossy green leaves, white spring flowers, and bright orange-red berries in the fall. Its thorny branches make it an excellent choice for security hedges and wildlife habitats.

Firethorn thrives in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. It is relatively low-maintenance and can tolerate a range of soil conditions, including poor soils. This plant is also drought-tolerant once established.

The dense, thorny growth provides excellent cover and nesting sites for birds, while the berries offer a food source during the colder months.

9. Blackberry (Rubus fruticosus)

  • Type of plant: Deciduous shrub
  • Geographic Origin: Europe, North America
  • Plant Size: 3-6 feet tall
  • Sun Exposure: Full sun
  • Plant Zone: 5-10

Blackberry shrubs are cherished for their delicious, dark berries and thorny canes. They are relatively easy to grow and can spread rapidly, making them ideal for natural fencing and wildlife habitats.

Blackberries thrive in full sun and well-drained soil. Regular pruning is necessary to maintain their shape and productivity, as well as to manage their vigorous growth. The thorny canes provide natural protection and can deter intruders.

The berries are not only a tasty treat for humans but also attract birds and other wildlife. Blackberries are also rich in vitamins and antioxidants, making them a healthy addition to any garden.

10. Eastern Prickly Pear (Opuntia humifusa)

  • Type of plant: Cactus
  • Geographic Origin: North America
  • Plant Size: 1-2 feet tall
  • Sun Exposure: Full sun
  • Plant Zone: 4-9

Eastern Prickly Pear is a hardy cactus with flat, paddle-shaped segments covered in spines. It produces bright yellow flowers and edible fruits. This plant is highly drought-tolerant and ideal for xeriscaping and rock gardens.

Eastern Prickly Pear thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. It requires minimal watering and is relatively low-maintenance. The spiny segments provide natural protection and can deter intruders.

The bright yellow flowers add a splash of color to the garden, while the edible fruits can be used in various culinary applications. Eastern Prickly Pear is also a valuable plant for wildlife, providing food and habitat for various species.

11. Devil’s Walking Stick (Aralia spinosa)

  • Type of plant: Deciduous shrub/tree
  • Geographic Origin: Eastern United States
  • Plant Size: 10-20 feet tall
  • Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
  • Plant Zone: 4-9

Devil’s Walking Stick is a unique plant with large, compound leaves and thorny stems. It produces clusters of small white flowers in the summer, followed by dark purple berries in the fall. This plant thrives in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil.

It is relatively low-maintenance and can tolerate a range of soil conditions, including poor soils. The thorny stems provide natural protection and make it an excellent choice for natural barriers and hedges.

The large leaves create a tropical appearance, adding visual interest to the garden. The flowers attract pollinators, while the berries provide food for birds and other wildlife.

12. Porcupine Tomato (Solanum pyracanthos)

  • Type of plant: Perennial shrub
  • Geographic Origin: Madagascar
  • Plant Size: 3-4 feet tall
  • Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
  • Plant Zone: 9-11

Porcupine Tomato is an intriguing and visually striking plant known for its bright orange spines and purple leaves. It produces small, star-shaped flowers that add to its ornamental appeal.

This plant thrives in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. It is relatively low-maintenance and can tolerate a range of soil conditions. The bright orange spines provide natural protection and make it an excellent choice for natural barriers and hedges.

Porcupine Tomato’s unique appearance makes it a standout addition to any garden, providing both aesthetic appeal and natural security.

13. Devil’s Thorn (Tribulus terrestris)

  • Type of plant: Annual herb
  • Geographic Origin: Mediterranean region
  • Plant Size: 1-2 feet tall
  • Sun Exposure: Full sun
  • Plant Zone: 6-9

Devil’s Thorn is a fast-growing annual herb known for its thorny seed pods and small yellow flowers. This plant thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. It is relatively low-maintenance and can tolerate a range of soil conditions, including poor soils.

The thorny seed pods provide natural protection and can deter intruders. Devil’s Thorn is often used in traditional medicine for its various health benefits. However, it is important to note that this plant can be invasive in some areas, so it is essential to check local guidelines before planting.

14. Tiger Trap Shrub (Erythrina crista-galli)

  • Type of plant: Deciduous shrub/tree
  • Geographic Origin: South America
  • Plant Size: 10-20 feet tall
  • Sun Exposure: Full sun
  • Plant Zone: 9-11

Tiger Trap Shrub is a fast-growing plant known for its vibrant red flowers and thorny branches. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. This plant is relatively low-maintenance and can

tolerate a range of soil conditions, including poor soils. The thorny branches provide natural protection, making it an excellent choice for natural barriers and hedges.

The vibrant red flowers attract pollinators, including bees and hummingbirds, adding ecological value to the garden. The Tiger Trap Shrub’s striking appearance and fast growth make it a standout addition to any landscape.

15. Juniper (Juniperus spp.)

  • Type of plant: Evergreen shrub/tree
  • Geographic Origin: Northern Hemisphere
  • Plant Size: Varies by species, typically 3-30 feet tall
  • Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
  • Plant Zone: 2-9

Juniper is a versatile and hardy plant that comes in various forms, including shrubs and trees. Known for its needle-like foliage and small, berry-like cones, Juniper is often used for hedging, ground cover, and ornamental purposes.

This plant thrives in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. It is highly drought-tolerant and can adapt to a range of soil conditions, including poor soils.

The dense, thorny foliage provides excellent privacy and security, making it an ideal choice for natural barriers and hedges. Juniper is also valued for its aromatic properties and is often used in traditional medicine and culinary applications.

16. Cactus (Cactaceae spp.)

  • Type of plant: Succulent
  • Geographic Origin: Americas
  • Plant Size: Varies by species, typically 1-60 feet tall
  • Sun Exposure: Full sun
  • Plant Zone: 4-11

Cacti are a diverse group of succulent plants known for their spiny stems and ability to store water. They are highly drought-tolerant and ideal for xeriscaping and rock gardens. Cacti thrive in full sun and well-drained soil.

They require minimal watering and are relatively low-maintenance. The spiny stems provide natural protection and can deter intruders. Cacti come in various shapes and sizes, from small, low-growing species to towering giants.

Many cacti produce beautiful flowers, adding a splash of color to the garden. Cacti are also valuable for their ecological role, providing habitat and food for various desert-dwelling species.

17. Barberry (Berberis spp.)

  • Type of plant: Deciduous or evergreen shrub
  • Geographic Origin: Temperate regions worldwide
  • Plant Size: 3-10 feet tall
  • Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
  • Plant Zone: 4-8

Barberry is a versatile shrub known for its thorny branches and colorful foliage. It produces small, yellow flowers in the spring, followed by red or blue berries in the fall. Barberry thrives in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil.

It is relatively low-maintenance and can tolerate a range of soil conditions, including poor soils. The dense, thorny growth provides excellent privacy and security, making it an ideal choice for natural barriers and hedges.

Barberry is also valued for its ornamental appeal, with foliage that changes color throughout the seasons. However, some species of Barberry are considered invasive, so it is important to check local guidelines before planting.

18. Brittle Prickly Pear (Opuntia fragilis)

  • Type of plant: Cactus
  • Geographic Origin: North America
  • Plant Size: 6-12 inches tall
  • Sun Exposure: Full sun
  • Plant Zone: 3-9

Brittle Prickly Pear is a small, hardy cactus known for its flat, paddle-shaped segments covered in spines. It produces bright yellow flowers and edible fruits. This plant thrives in full sun and well-drained soil.

It is highly drought-tolerant and ideal for xeriscaping and rock gardens. The spiny segments provide natural protection and can deter intruders. The bright yellow flowers add a splash of color to the garden, while the edible fruits can be used in various culinary applications.

Brittle Prickly Pear is also a valuable plant for wildlife, providing food and habitat for various species.

19. Washington Hawthorn (Crataegus phaenopyrum)

  • Type of plant: Deciduous shrub/tree
  • Geographic Origin: North America
  • Plant Size: 20-30 feet tall
  • Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
  • Plant Zone: 4-8

Washington Hawthorn is a versatile and resilient plant that can be grown as either a shrub or small tree. It produces beautiful white flowers in the spring, followed by red berries in the fall.

The thorny branches of Washington Hawthorn make it an excellent choice for creating natural hedges and wildlife habitats. This plant is also valued for its medicinal properties, particularly in supporting cardiovascular health.

Washington Hawthorn is relatively low-maintenance and can thrive in a variety of soil types, provided it receives adequate sunlight. It is also tolerant of urban pollution, making it a good choice for city gardens and landscapes.

20. Blackthorn (Prunus spinosa)

  • Type of plant: Deciduous shrub/tree
  • Geographic Origin: Europe, Western Asia
  • Plant Size: 6-15 feet tall
  • Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
  • Plant Zone: 4-8

Blackthorn, also known as Sloe, is a hardy shrub or small tree known for its white spring flowers and small, dark purple fruits. The thorny branches of Blackthorn make it an excellent choice for natural hedges and barriers.

This plant thrives in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. It is relatively low-maintenance and can tolerate a range of soil conditions, including poor soils. The dense, thorny growth provides excellent privacy and security, making it an ideal choice for natural barriers and hedges.

The fruits of Blackthorn are often used to make sloe gin and other culinary delights. The flowers attract pollinators, while the fruits provide food for birds and other wildlife.

21. Rugosa Rose (Rosa rugosa)

  • Type of plant: Deciduous shrub
  • Geographic Origin: Eastern Asia
  • Plant Size: 4-6 feet tall
  • Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
  • Plant Zone: 2-7

Rugosa Rose is a hardy and resilient rose variety known for its fragrant flowers and thorny stems. It produces large, pink or white flowers in the summer, followed by bright red hips in the fall.

This plant thrives in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. It is highly drought-tolerant and can tolerate a range of soil conditions, including poor soils. The thorny stems provide natural protection, making it an excellent choice for natural barriers and hedges.

Rugosa Rose is also valued for its medicinal properties, particularly in supporting skin health. The flowers attract pollinators, while the hips provide food for birds and other wildlife.

22. Pyracantha (Pyracantha spp.)

  • Type of plant: Evergreen shrub
  • Geographic Origin: Europe, Asia
  • Plant Size: 6-18 feet tall
  • Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
  • Plant Zone: 6-9

Pyracantha, commonly known as Firethorn, is an evergreen shrub renowned for its thorny branches, white spring flowers, and bright orange to red berries in the fall. This plant thrives in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil.

Pyracantha is highly adaptable and can tolerate a range of soil conditions, including poor soils. The dense, thorny growth makes it an excellent choice for security hedges and natural barriers, providing both aesthetic appeal and protection.

The berries are a significant food source for birds during the winter months, and the flowers attract various pollinators, adding ecological value to the garden. Regular pruning helps maintain its shape and encourages more prolific blooming and berry production.

23. Gorse (Ulex europaeus)

  • Type of plant: Evergreen shrub
  • Geographic Origin: Western Europe
  • Plant Size: 3-10 feet tall
  • Sun Exposure: Full sun
  • Plant Zone: 6-9

Gorse is a hardy, evergreen shrub known for its bright yellow flowers and dense, thorny branches. This plant thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. Gorse is highly drought-tolerant and can adapt to poor, sandy soils, making it an ideal choice for challenging growing conditions.

The thorny branches provide excellent natural protection and make Gorse a popular choice for natural barriers and hedges. The vibrant yellow flowers bloom primarily in the spring and can continue sporadically throughout the year, adding a splash of color to the landscape.

Gorse is also valued for its ability to fix nitrogen in the soil, improving soil fertility over time. However, it can be invasive in some areas, so it is important to check local guidelines before planting.

24. Hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna)

  • Type of plant: Deciduous shrub/tree
  • Geographic Origin: Europe, North Africa, Western Asia
  • Plant Size: 15-30 feet tall
  • Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
  • Plant Zone: 4-8

Hawthorn is a versatile plant that can be grown as either a shrub or small tree. It produces clusters of white or pink flowers in the spring, followed by red berries in the fall. The thorny branches of Hawthorn make it an excellent choice for creating natural hedges and wildlife habitats.

This plant thrives in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. It is relatively low-maintenance and can tolerate a range of soil conditions, including poor soils.

The flowers attract pollinators, while the berries provide food for birds and other wildlife. Hawthorn is also valued for its medicinal properties, particularly in supporting cardiovascular health.

25. Russian Olive (Elaeagnus angustifolia)

  • Type of plant: Deciduous shrub/tree
  • Geographic Origin: Western and Central Asia
  • Plant Size: 15-30 feet tall
  • Sun Exposure: Full sun
  • Plant Zone: 2-7

Russian Olive is a fast-growing deciduous shrub or small tree known for its silvery leaves and thorny branches. It produces small, fragrant yellow flowers in the spring, followed by olive-like fruits. This plant thrives in full sun and well-drained soil.

Russian Olive is highly drought-tolerant and can adapt to poor soils, making it an ideal choice for challenging growing conditions. The thorny branches provide natural protection, making it an excellent choice for natural barriers and windbreaks.

The silvery foliage adds a unique visual element to the landscape, and the flowers attract pollinators. However, Russian Olive is considered invasive in some areas, so it is important to check local guidelines before planting.

26. Sea Buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides)

  • Type of plant: Deciduous shrub
  • Geographic Origin: Europe, Asia
  • Plant Size: 6-20 feet tall
  • Sun Exposure: Full sun
  • Plant Zone: 3-7

Sea Buckthorn is a hardy deciduous shrub known for its bright orange berries and thorny branches. This plant thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. Sea Buckthorn is highly drought-tolerant and can adapt to poor, sandy soils, making it an ideal choice for challenging growing conditions.

The thorny branches provide natural protection, making it an excellent choice for natural barriers and hedges. The bright orange berries are rich in vitamins and antioxidants and are often used in culinary and medicinal applications.

Sea Buckthorn is also valued for its ability to fix nitrogen in the soil, improving soil fertility over time. The flowers attract pollinators, while the berries provide food for birds and other wildlife.

27. Sloe (Prunus spinosa)

  • Type of plant: Deciduous shrub/tree
  • Geographic Origin: Europe, Western Asia
  • Plant Size: 6-15 feet tall
  • Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
  • Plant Zone: 4-8

Sloe, also known as Blackthorn, is a hardy shrub or small tree known for its white spring flowers and small, dark purple fruits. The thorny branches of Sloe make it an excellent choice for natural hedges and barriers.

This plant thrives in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. It is relatively low-maintenance and can tolerate a range of soil conditions, including poor soils. The dense, thorny growth provides excellent privacy and security, making it an ideal choice for natural barriers and hedges.

The fruits of Sloe are often used to make sloe gin and other culinary delights. The flowers attract pollinators, while the fruits provide food for birds and other wildlife.

28. Honey Locust (Gleditsia triacanthos)

  • Type of plant: Deciduous tree
  • Geographic Origin: Central North America
  • Plant Size: 30-70 feet tall
  • Sun Exposure: Full sun
  • Plant Zone: 3-9

Honey locust (Gleditsia triacanthos inermis) is a shade tree that spreads wide and can also serve as a canopy to protect people from the sunlight. These trees can grow very big to a height of about 30-70 and can also spread to about 30-70 feet when it attains full maturity.

The ideal amount of sunlight this tree requires is 6 hours of unfiltered and direct sunlight daily. The honey locust is drought tolerant and also invulnerable to diseases and pests. The tree stems and trunk are all covered in sharp, spiny thorns that grow in clusters.

While it may take years for the honey locust tree to attain its height, it would only take about a year or even less if you want a shrub-sized tree.

29. Century Plant

The (agave Americana) century plant lives only about 10-30 years. Doing that time, the seeds they then produced and taken are this plant can spread for around 1.8-3.0 m, each of its prickly margins ruled with heavy spikes.

These thorns pierce the skin, can be very painful, and cause colossal skin irritation if not attended to immediately. 

Its leaves are grey-greenish and would do better in dry and well-drained soil; excess water can do more harm than good to these plants.

This century plant would work best if you live in a warm area and need just a few stabs below your window area. It is native to Mexico and other southeastern states, and its bed-like outlook makes it perfect for underground beds.

See Also: Best Pool Friendly Plants and Trees

30. Common Holly

Holly plants (Ilex aquifolium) can be very challenging to be grown in southeastern states because it doesn’t do well in cold winters and summer; it prefers a warm environment. Holly trees belong to the Aquifoliaceae family, mainly used as ornamental trees and tall hedges.

These holly trees have glossy and green leaves that can be used for an effective hedge underground planting.

However, this plant can only be used in a protected environment because of its dislike for high humidities and temperature. So, if you need a high-hedged plant that hides its thorns quite well, these holly shrubs might be your best pick.

31. Blackthorns

The blackthorn (prunus spinsoa) is extremely wildlife friendly. These plants are built in a way that they can serve as a source of food and even protection to specific birds, and due to their spiny branches, these birds make use of these plants to build their nests to protect themselves from predators. 

These blackthorn trees are native to Great Britain and some parts of Europe as they produce berries that can be consumed from time to time by homeowners of their level of beauty? Top-notch! Blackthorns look as beautiful as they protect your property with their pretty white flowers and delicate leaves. 

You can use the berries produced by this plant to make jam and homemade gins, and because they can easily be trained and trimmed into thick hedges, they serve as very tight protection for your properties. 

32. Crown of Thorns (Euphorbia milii)

  • Type of plant: Evergreen shrub
  • Geographic Origin: Madagascar
  • Plant Size: 3-6 feet tall
  • Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
  • Plant Zone: 9-11

The crown of thorns (Euphorbia milii) are red plants that can quickly grow and maintain. You can grow another of this plant with just one stem cutting under the soil to form the roots.

This crown of thorn is native to madgas and is also called ”Christ thorns” by some people because it is said that the crown Jesus wore during his crucifixion was made with this plant. 

These plants have visible and sturdy thorns around their stems and branches, and if you are looking for a plant to serve as a fantastic weapon, the crown of thorns can double the weaponry. 

33. Bougainvillea (Bougainvillea spp.)

  • Type of plant: Evergreen shrub/vine
  • Geographic Origin: South America
  • Plant Size: Up to 40 feet long
  • Sun Exposure: Full sun
  • Plant Zone: 9-11

The bougainvillea plant is a tropical and shrubby plant that can be grown as an annual or perennial plant. These plants (bougainvillea spectabilis) can be a great addition to your poolside, but you can also use this plant as a defense by placing it close to your patio.

This plant does better in a hot and dry climate, and although it requires deep watering, you should ensure that you do not allow the leaves on the plants to dry out completely between watering. The abundance of purple flowers on the plat gives it a fantastic romantic look. 

The blooms on the bougainvillea plants are near permanent, and if you live in a warm enough region, you will enjoy the plants’ colors. However, its pretty outlook doesn’t mean it doesn’t cause as much harm as all other thorny shrubs and bushes, and its dense thorny stems can even climb across Walla and ledges. 

34. Scarlet Firethorn

The scarlet firethorn (pyracantha coccinea) is a deciduous bush clustered with little flowers during the spring and produces a bunch of reddish and orangish berries from September until winter.

Firethorn is a very dense, evergreen shrub that produces sweet and dense red berries during the fall and then grows dense stems and vines, which you could easily prune to your desired shape.

However, the hedges you create at the end are almost impossible to penetrate due to the thick torn this plant possesses along the way.

Frequently Asked Questions 

What Is the Fastest Growing Shrub for Your Privacy?

Although many fast-growing shrubs can protect your property, one of the fastest-growing privacy shrubs with thorns is the arborvitae, aka thuja, which is one of the best options because it grows very fast and can be able to cover large areas perfectly. The thuja is about 50-60 feet tall. 

What To Plant to Block Your Prying Neighbors?

You do not need fancy security to keep your prying neighbors out; you can block your nosy neighbors from peering into your property with the help of certain plants like; arborvitae, bamboo plants, and skip laurel, privet, and the holy trinity plant.

How Can I Get Privacy from Neighbours Without a Fence?

There are a lot of ways you can archive this without a fence. These methods include making use of fast-growing thorny plants around your property, and if you do not want to make use of thorns, there’re several other ways you can do it with plants; you can plant tall trees and plants along your property, add long vines and also grow hedges.

See Also: 5 Types of Plants With Spores

Conclusion 

You do not have to empty your pockets to get a very effective security measure put in place; with the proper natural guards like these fast-growing shrubs with thorns, you can also archive that.

So, placing these shrubs strategically around your property can provide you with a beautiful yard and a peaceful night’s sleep.