Fast-Growing Shade Shrubs for West-Facing Windows in Texas

New Braunfels, TX homeowner needs fast-growing shrubs to shade two west-facing windows from intense afternoon sun.

Top Recommendation: Crape Myrtle (Lagerstroemia)

• Tree-like deciduous shrub, many sizes (3-25 ft)
• Tolerates poor soil, drought, heat
• Disease resistant (especially newer cultivars)
• Low maintenance, long bloom season
• Winter dormancy allows sun penetration when desired

Alternatives for Evergreen Screening

• Wax Myrtle (Morella cerifera): Fast, evergreen, 10-20 ft, tolerates pruning
• Cherry Laurel (Prunus caroliniana): Dense, fast, 15-20 ft
• Yaupon Holly (Ilex vomitoria): Native, adaptable, 10-20 ft

Crape myrtle offers the best combination of speed, shade density, and seasonal appropriateness for window shading.