Privacy Is Possible In Small Yards When You Plant This One Stunning, Easy-Care Tree

If you live on a property with a small front or backyard, then you might have abandoned the dream of growing a tree as a privacy shield. While that's understandable, there are actually a number of trees you can plant for privacy without completely overpowering a tight space. Case in point: sapphireberry, or Asiatic sweetleaf (Symplocos paniculata), a low-branching tree that's relatively small and easy to care for, but one that still makes a big impact. Native to Asia, this plant is hardy in USDA zones 5 through 8 and can reach between 10 to 20 feet in height, which makes it a safe bet for landscaping in tighter areas. 

Planted in small groups along the perimeter of your yard or garden, sapphireberry trees will eventually grow dense enough to offer some cover. As a bonus, their dainty flowers and namesake blue berries aren't just stunningly pretty to look at; they'll also attract birds to your yard. However, as you'll see below, there are some potential concerns to keep in mind if you're thinking about planting this tree yourself.

Sapphireberry's white blooms and blue berries will make a beautiful addition to any privacy-focused landscaping project. It's naturally resistant to disease, so you won't have to worry about common garden pests or afflictions jeopardizing its growth. But even though they're an attractive pick that fits the bill for privacy in small yards, sapphireberry trees aren't necessarily the right option for every home gardener. 

For one, this non-native tree is listed as an invasive plant you should never grow in Maine. If you live in the Pine Tree State, then this is one plant you'll have to steer clear of. In other parts of the country, you'll still need to watch its spread. The tree is beloved by seed-spreading birds and can be self-fertile; left unchecked, its growth can easily dominate dense underbrush, blocking light and key nutrients from native plants. If you're an inexperienced gardener, or you're looking for a low-maintenance tree you can grow in your yard and won't have to monitor, then this probably isn't the ideal pick for you. 

Sapphireberry blooms in late spring. Its delicate white flowers are followed by deep-blue berries that pop up (and quickly get eaten up by birds!) in the fall. To get the most out of sapphireberry trees, aim to plant the container-grown saplings in your yard in the spring or early fall. This tree needs plenty of sunshine to thrive, so find a spot that gets full sun or, at minimum, light shade. Ensure that the soil drains well.

For privacy purposes, you'll need to plant a few trees side by side, ideally in groups of three or more and spaced out about 15 feet apart. That way, they'll have the best chance of thriving while still providing privacy upon reaching their mature size. Water your sapphireberry trees regularly, particularly when they're still growing and are not yet established, but don't overdo it on the pruning. Since its flowers always appear on top of the previous season's growth, this tree needs minimal trimming. If you do plan to prune, do so lightly once winter has almost come to an end.