I am looking for a a moderate-height evergreen tree, either conifer or non-conifer (though leaning towards non-conifer is possible). It is going to be used as a screen between the neighbors, and I am looking for an evergreen that is as fast growing as possible. The spot where it will be planted gets lots of sun. Any suggestions?
Depends on the height you need to block, but a few quick suggestions: Cotinus coggygria (smoke bush), pruned into a tree form. Ecualyptus (gunnii or coccifera perhaps), though leaf litter and die-back during rare cold snaps are drawbacks. Evergreen Dogwood (Cornus capitata) Bamboo, properly contained with rhizome barrier...Phyllostachys dulcis is good looking, to about 25' with a timber look, P. Aureosulcata makes a dense, upright screen. I'm sure more suggestions will follow.
Go out to Cistus nursery on Sauvie Island and look at their plantings, see if anything there grabs you. Ask inside about availability.
