Here are a few favourites that grow quickly and look fabulous:
Westringia fruticosa (Native rosemary)
Westringia is a native shrub that can handle poor soil, wind and drought. It grows quickly into a dense, tidy bush with soft grey-green leaves and delicate purple or white flowers. Trim it to shape or let it go wild! Full sun or part shade. Tolerates poor soil and coastal exposure. Trim regularly to keep compact.
Grevillea
There’s a grevillea for almost every garden size and style. These natives are quick to grow and come in a range of shapes, from compact ground covers to tall screening shrubs. Plant in full sun, well-drained soil. Water until established, then drought tolerant. Prune lightly after flowering to keep tidy.
Hibiscus
For something a bit more tropical, hibiscus brings big, bright blooms and a laid-back vibe. They like a sunny spot and a bit of extra water in summer, but they grow fast and flower for ages. Great as a hedge or a feature plant. Enjoy a lovely garden in less time
Bottlebrush (Callistemon)
Known for their showy red (or pink, purple or cream) flower spikes, bottlebrushes are fast growers that double as a buffet for pollinators. They’re hardy, good-looking and can even help with privacy when grown as a hedge. They’re happy in full sun and adapt to most soils. Prune after flowering to encourage dense growth. They respond well to mulch and occasional deep watering.
Indian hawthorn (Rhaphiolepis indica)
Low-maintenance and quick to establish, Indian hawthorn produces clusters of pink or white flowers in spring and summer, followed by blue berries. It’s happy in our climate and makes a neat border or low hedge. Make sure your soil is well-draining and water well while it’s establishing; trim lightly after flowering.
Photinia
After a colourful screen? Photinia’s new growth comes in bright red, which makes it a standout. It grows quickly into a thick hedge with regular trimming and thrives in full sun.
Melaleuca nesophila (Showy honey-myrtle)
Bird-attracting and low maintenance, this honey-myrtle thrives in sandy or coastal soils and prefers full sun. Prune lightly to maintain shape.
Dodonaea (purple hop bush)
This Aussie native has striking purple leaves and grows quickly into a compact screen. It’s drought-tolerant, copes well with poor soils, and adds colour even when it’s not in flower. Easy to grow shrubs
Abelia x grandiflora
A lovely choice for something a little more elegant. This semi-evergreen shrub offers arching branches, glossy leaves and delicate white or pink bell-shaped flowers. It grows fast, especially with a light prune now and then.
Plumbago
If you’re after something sprawling or cascading, plumbago delivers. With its bright sky-blue flowers and fast-growing habit, it works well spilling over retaining walls. It likes the sun and can handle the heat.
Tecoma (Cape honeysuckle)
Not a true honeysuckle, but it puts on a great show. Tecoma grows quickly, has vibrant trumpet-shaped flowers in orange, red or yellow, and attracts birds. Perfect for fences, arches or loose hedging. Sun-loving and drought-tolerant once established, prune after flowering to maintain its shape.
Tips for success
- Start with good soil – Adding compost or soil improver will help your shrubs get going.
- Mulch – A layer of mulch helps keep roots cool and holds in moisture.
- Water while they’re young – Even drought-tolerant plants need regular drinks while they’re establishing.
- Prune regularly – Trimming encourages bushier growth and keeps things looking tidy.
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