Name: The Plant Company
Address: 284 Meeanee Road, Meeanee, Napier, 4112, New Zealand
Telephone: 0800 843 752
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fast growing nz native hedge

If you’re looking for a fast growing NZ native hedge to create instant privacy, shelter, or to add lush green structure to your garden, you’re in the right place. New Zealand’s unique native plants offer fantastic options for quick-growing hedges that thrive in our conditions, providing both beauty and resilience. Choosing the right plant for your needs can transform your outdoor spaces in no time, with year-round foliage and minimal maintenance requirements.

Kunzea ericoides

Kunzea ericoides, commonly known as Kanuka, is a fast-growing, NZ native tree. It features small, dark green leaves that release a pleasant fragrance when touched or in a light breeze. Small, white flowers are borne in abundance through summer and are great for attracting birds and bees. This evergreen typically grows to 8 m in height and 4 m in width, and can be trimmed as necessary. Kunzea ericoides is commonly grown for its sheltering properties, clipped into a slender hedge, or used in native revegetation and riparian plantings.

Buy Kunzea ericoides

From $8.97

Suited to regions: All regions

Plant type: Trees

Height: 8.00 m

Spread: 4.00 m

Flowering time: Summer

Tolerances: Coastal, Extended dry periods, Hardy, Wet, Wind

Garden uses: Hedging, Ponds, Screening

Garden styles: Alpine, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Formal, Frontyard, Mediterranean, Modern, Native, Riparian

Olearia solandri

Olearia solandri, commonly known as the Coastal Tree Daisy, is a fast-growing shrub characterised by its impressive flowers. This NZ native features petite, white flowers in late summer, which have a pleasant vanilla fragrance. They are complemented with small leaves which are green on the topside and yellow beneath, as it grows to 4 m tall and 2 m wide. Olearia solandri is commonly included in a mixed or native planting, trimmed into a hedge, or used as a lovely backdrop for smaller plants.

Buy Olearia solandri

From $23.39

Suited to regions: All regions

Plant type: Shrubs

Height: 4.00 m

Spread: 2.00 m

Flowering time: Summer

Tolerances: Coastal, Extended dry periods, Hardy, Wind

Garden uses: Hedging, Living areas, Parks, Screening, Specimen

Garden styles: Alpine, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Formal, Frontyard, Modern, Native

Why Choose a Fast Growing NZ Native Hedge?

A fast growing NZ native hedge is a smart solution for busy gardeners and new builds where privacy is a priority. Native hedges are well-adapted to New Zealand’s soils and climate, making them less demanding than exotic species. They attract native birds, cope well with coastal conditions, and often resist wind, drought, and pests. Fast-growing options mean you can establish a full, green barrier much more quickly than with slower alternatives.

Top Choices for Fast Growing NZ Native Hedge Plants

Several NZ native species are renowned for their rapid growth, versatility, and attractive foliage. Here are some of the best performers:

Pittosporum tenuifolium

Pittosporum tenuifolium is a classic choice for fast growing NZ native hedge uses. With its glossy, wave-edged leaves and upright growth habit, this hardy evergreen thrives in a wide range of garden conditions. It forms dense, tall screens within just a few seasons, and its small, dark stems give the hedge added visual interest.

Griselinia 'Broadway Mint'

Griselinia 'Broadway Mint' is prized for its lush, apple-green leaves and exceptionally quick growth rate. This variety makes an excellent low-maintenance hedge, forming a thick, even screen that’s perfect for coastal or windy sites. It grows vigorously and can easily be shaped to suit both formal and informal hedge styles.

Kunzea robusta

Known as kanuka, Kunzea robusta is a fast-growing, tough native tree often used in shelter belts and informal hedges. Its soft, fine foliage creates a feathery texture, adding native character and shelter for birds. It’s especially useful in exposed or rural sites where other hedging plants may struggle.

Griselinia littoralis

Griselinia littoralis is another reliable option, naturally thriving throughout New Zealand. As a fast growing NZ native hedge, it stands out for its resilience and bright green leaves. It tolerates coastal wind, salt spray, and partial shade, making it ideal for a wide range of gardens.

Olearia solandri

Olearia solandri, or coastal tree daisy, forms dense, twiggy stands that clip into tidy hedges or are left to grow as bold, informal screens. With its small, leathery leaves and speedy establishment, it’s a favourite for difficult or exposed locations.

Planting and Care Tips

For the best fast growing NZ native hedge, space your plants at recommended intervals—usually about 50–100cm apart. Water deeply during the first summer and mulch in spring to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Trim once or twice a year to keep your hedge thick and healthy.

Native hedging plants are generally disease resistant and forgiving, making them a great choice for low-fuss gardens throughout New Zealand. Whether you want privacy, shelter, or simply a beautiful boundary, a fast growing NZ native hedge can deliver stunning results within just a few seasons.

Contact us

Whether you need assistance finding the plant you’re looking for or you simply want to know more about who we are and what we do, we invite you to get in touch with us today. A member of The Plant Company team will get back in touch as soon as possible.

fast growing nz native hedge

Kunzea ericoides

Olearia solandri

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Why Choose a Fast Growing NZ Native Hedge?