Plants for garden security
These are some common shrubs that are both colourful and very prickly to
touch. These security plants are a natural deterrent when placed near walls
and fences that intruders may try to climb over.
Do not underestimate these security plants - they are very sharp and should
be planted responsibly - away from children and public places.
Pyracantha
Vigorous, hardy evergreen
Flowers in early summer with berries in autumn
(normally red or yellow).
Height and spread 180cm x 120cm (6ft by
4ft)
Needs well drained soil
Sun or shade
2 inch spikes along very
tough, interwoven branches!
Berberis
Many different kinds/colours to choose from
Ornamental evergreen
Height and spread apx 180cm x 180cm (6ft by 6ft)
Well drained soil
Sun
or partial shade
1 inch spikes ranged along all branches!
Ilex
Hardy, evergreen Holly.
Glossy, strong foliage
Height 3-5 m (10-25ft)
Moist, well drained soil
Sun or partial shade
Prickly leaves and dense
growth!
Mahonia
Hardy Evergreen shrub
Fragrant spikes flower in winter
Height and
spread 120cm (4ft) in 10 years
Tolerates most soils
Sun or partial
shade
Really prickly leaves!
Agave
There are a number to choose from that vary in size and shape.
Contact
your local garden centre to see what they have on offer.
Most have
sharply pointed leaves - very painful.
Ruscus
Dense thicket - evergreen
Tolerant of shade and dry conditions
Produces bright red berries when both sexes are present.
Height and
spread 0.5m x 1m (1.5 ft by 3 ft)
Small but strong pointed leaves!