Yews (Taxus spp.) On the other hand, slow-growing evergreen shrubs include Dwarf coral hedge barberry, Japanese aucuba, and … It is a slow-growing shrub, which … Some of the fast-growing, best evergreen shrubs for front of house include hydrangea, common elder, buddleja, privet, ribes, photinia, and much more. have soft, dark green needles and grow in sun or shade. There are several varieties to choose from including the plain-leaved and variegated types. Daphne plants are the perfect evergreen plant for your yard with their small and fragrant blooms that flower in the winter and early spring. Upright Conifers. A number of conifers come in columnar shapes, suitable for a narrow planting bed at a house’s base.