(And How to Choose the Right One)

If you live in North Carolina, you don’t have to look far to find evergreens anchoring the landscape. From the mountains to the coast, these trees offer year‑round color, privacy, and resilience in our unpredictable climate. But which native evergreens actually thrive here—and which ones make sense for your yard?

Whether you’re searching for fast‑growing privacy trees, drought‑tolerant options, or something low‑maintenance that won’t outgrow your space, this guide breaks down the most common native evergreens in NC and what you can expect from each.

Why Native Evergreens Are a Smart Choice in NC

North Carolina’s climate swings from humid summers to occasional winter cold snaps. Native evergreens tend to handle these extremes better than many imported species. They also support local wildlife, resist regional pests, and require less fuss overall.

Disclaimer: Keep in mind that every evergreen species can vary in appearance and performance depending on where it’s planted. Soil type, sunlight, moisture, and overall site conditions all play a role in how full, dense, or vigorous a tree becomes. With the right environment, these evergreens typically develop stronger root systems, richer color, and fuller foliage.

Homeowners are often searching for:

• “Fast growing evergreen trees NC”
• “Best privacy trees for North Carolina”
• “Low maintenance evergreens”
• “Evergreen trees that tolerate drought”
• “Native trees for NC landscaping”

This guide has been created to hits all of those points for all North Carolina homeowners!

Top Native Evergreen Trees in North Carolina

1. Eastern White Pine (Pinus strobus)**

A soft‑needled pine with a classic, elegant shape. Great for larger properties or naturalized areas.

Why NC homeowners like it: Fast growth, soft texture, and a tall, stately look.

Quick facts:

• Growth rate: Fast
• Mature height: 50–80 ft
• Width: 20–40 ft
• Hardiness: Very hardy in NC mountains and Piedmont
• Drought tolerance: Moderate once established

2. Eastern Red Cedar (Juniperus virginiana)**

Technically a juniper, not a cedar—but one of the toughest native evergreens you can plant.

Why NC homeowners like it: Handles poor soil, heat, drought, and wind. Excellent for privacy screens.

Quick facts:

• Growth rate: Moderate
• Mature height: 30–50 ft
• Width: 10–20 ft
• Hardiness: Extremely hardy statewide
• Drought tolerance: High

A young Eastern Red Cedar:

3. Loblolly Pine (Pinus taeda)**

One of the most common trees in the entire state, especially in the Piedmont and Coastal Plain.

Why NC homeowners like it: Fast growth and adaptability.

Quick facts:

• Growth rate: Fast
• Mature height: 60–100 ft
• Width: 25–35 ft
• Hardiness: Strong in Piedmont & Coastal Plain
• Drought tolerance: Moderate

A young Loblolly Pine :

4. Longleaf Pine (Pinus palustris)**

A historically iconic tree in NC, known for its fire‑adapted ecosystem and long needles.

Why NC homeowners like it: Extremely long‑lived and resilient once established.

Quick facts:

• Growth rate: Slow at first, then moderate
• Mature height: 60–80 ft
• Width: 30–40 ft
• Hardiness: Excellent in Coastal Plain
• Drought tolerance: High

Young Longleaf Pine seedlings:

5. American Holly (Ilex opaca)**

A broadleaf evergreen with glossy leaves and bright red berries.

Why NC homeowners like it: Beautiful winter interest and great for wildlife.

Quick facts:

• Growth rate: Slow to moderate
• Mature height: 15–30 ft
• Width: 10–20 ft
• Hardiness: Very hardy statewide
• Drought tolerance: Moderate

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Tree	Growth Rate	Mature Height	Width	Hardiness	Drought Tolerance
Eastern White Pine	Fast	50–80 ft	20–40 ft	High	Moderate
Eastern Red Cedar	Moderate	30–50 ft	10–20 ft	Very High	High
Loblolly Pine	Fast	60–100 ft	25–35 ft	High	Moderate
Longleaf Pine	Slow → Moderate	60–80 ft	30–40 ft	High	High
American Holly	Slow → Moderate	15–30 ft	10–20 ft	Very High	Moderate

Recommendations:

For tough, low‑maintenance landscapes:

• Eastern Red Cedar
• Longleaf Pine

For smaller spaces or ornamental use:

• American Holly

For sandy or poor soils:

• Longleaf Pine
• Eastern Red Cedar