Hedge or Screen Plants for Arkansas

Historically, the two most common landscape plants used for hedge or screen purposes in Arkansas would be redtip photinia (Photinia xfraseri) or Leyland cypress (ΧCupressocyparis leylandii).

While both of these plants are superb hedge or screen plants, both candidates are in decline due to disease problems. In the case of redtip, the fungal problem is Entomosporium leaf spot ( Leaf Spot of Redtip Photinia). In some cases, this disease can be so serious in Arkansas that a hedge will be leafless in June.

Gardeners in states west and south of Arkansas often have less of a problem with this serious disease. The ever-popular Leyland cypress has its own fungal problems (Seiridium and Botryosphaeria cankers) that make its future equally perilous  Branch Canker and Dieback of Leyland Cypress).

Suggesting alternatives is no short order, and it would be misleading to assume that cookie-cutter options lie in wait. However, there are a number of plants that fit the mold fairly well.