Kevin Bacon's Drought-Tolerant Privacy

Actor Kevin Bacon and his wife Kyra Sedgwick have created a privacy screen in their Los Angeles front garden using a layered scheme of drought-tolerant plants. This approach, reported by Gardening Know How, provides seclusion with significantly less water than a traditional boxwood hedge.

Their garden is framed from the street by a loose, natural-looking arrangement instead of a formal hedge. Towering California pepper trees create a high canopy. Bold agaves, birds of paradise, and fragrant rosemary fill the space beneath.

The result is a living screen that feels lush and secluded. It avoids the rigid appearance and potential problems of traditional boxwood.

A Layered Alternative to Hedging

Rather than depending on a single evergreen hedge, several plants work together to soften views into the property. The taller trees filter sightlines from above. Mid-height birds of paradise provide dense evergreen foliage. Lower-growing agaves and rosemary add volume at ground level.

This combination feels softer and more contemporary than a wall of boxwood. It is also designed for a warming climate. Agaves store water in their thick leaves. Rosemary thrives in hot, dry conditions once established. California pepper trees are well adapted to drought.

Together, they require significantly less irrigation than thirsty hedging plants. This makes them attractive for gardeners looking to reduce maintenance and water use. For those planning similar projects, reviewing your garden's fixtures for sun exposure and space is a good first step.

Why Move Away From Boxwood?

Boxwood has long been a go-to choice for creating evergreen privacy. It is increasingly falling out of favor, however. This is especially true in areas where drought is a concern or where homeowners prefer a relaxed, Mediterranean-inspired aesthetic.

A traditional boxwood hedge can be prone to blight and ravaging by the box tree moth. Kevin Bacon’s planting scheme offers a compelling alternative. It avoids potential heartbreak from box caterpillar drama later on.

None of this means boxwood is obsolete. It remains a classic for formal gardens and neatly clipped borders. The layered, drought-tolerant approach simply provides another option. It creates privacy in a more interesting way, with more texture and less water.

A single hedge might be the obvious choice. Combining drought-tolerant trees, evergreen shrubs, and architectural planting can create a garden that feels distinctly of the moment. Understanding plant stats like mature height and water needs is crucial for such layered designs.

Welcome to the big time.