Are you looking to add some greenery to your outdoor space but don’t want to wait decades for trees to mature?
If so, you’re in luck! Certain tree species are known for their rapid growth rates, allowing you to enjoy their shade, beauty, and environmental benefits in a relatively short amount of time.
In this article, we’ll explore the 5 fastest growing trees that are perfect for planting in the United States.
| Tree | Growth Rate | Height | Spread | Hardiness Zones | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hybrid Poplar | Up to 8 ft/year | 40-80 ft | 20-35 ft | 3-9 | Extremely fast growth, provides quick shade |
| Leyland Cypress | Up to 4 ft/year | 60-70 ft | 15-25 ft | 6-10 | Fast-growing evergreen, pyramidal shape, privacy screen |
| Royal Paulownia | Up to 6 ft/year | 30-50 ft | 25-40 ft | 5-9 | Exotic beauty, large leaves, fragrant purple flowers |
| Dawn Redwood | Up to 3 ft/year | 70-100 ft | 25-35 ft | 5-8 | Living fossil, fern-like foliage, attractive bark |
| Quaking Aspen | Up to 3 ft/year | 40-50 ft | 20-30 ft | 1-7 | Golden fall color, fluttering leaves, unique growth habit |
1. The Lightning-Fast Grower: Hybrid Poplar Tree
When it comes to fast-growing trees, few can match the impressive growth rate of the hybrid poplar.
This tree is a cross between different poplar species and is widely cultivated for its ability to thrive in various soil conditions and climates.
The hybrid poplar can grow up to 8 feet (2.4 meters) per year, making it one of the quickest trees to provide shade and privacy.
Characteristics:
- Growth rate: Up to 8 feet (2.4 meters) per year
- Height: 40-80 feet (12-24 meters)
- Spread: 20-35 feet (6-10 meters)
- Hardiness zones: 3-9
Ideal Growing Conditions
The hybrid poplar thrives in moist, well-drained soils and prefers full sun exposure. It is relatively low-maintenance and can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including clay and sandy soils.
However, it’s essential to provide adequate water during the establishment period and in times of drought.
Landscaping Applications
Due to its rapid growth and large size, the hybrid poplar is an excellent choice for providing quick shade in parks, gardens, and residential areas. It can also be used as a windbreak or privacy screen.
Additionally, some cultivars of the hybrid poplar are prized for their attractive foliage and bark, making them a visually appealing addition to any landscape.
2. The Stately Evergreen: Leyland Cypress Tree
If you’re looking for a fast-growing evergreen tree that can provide year-round interest, the Leyland cypress is an excellent choice.
This hybrid between the Monterey cypress and the Nootka cypress is known for its pyramidal shape and lush, feathery foliage.
With a growth rate of up to 4 feet (1.2 meters) per year, it’s an excellent option for those seeking quick results.
Characteristics:
- Growth rate: Up to 4 feet (1.2 meters) per year
- Height: 60-70 feet (18-21 meters)
- Spread: 15-25 feet (4.5-7.6 meters)
- Hardiness zones: 6-10
Ideal Growing Conditions
The Leyland cypress thrives in full sun and well-drained soils. It is relatively drought-tolerant once established but prefers consistent moisture during the growing season. This tree is also tolerant of a wide range of soil types, including clay and sandy soils.
Landscaping Applications
The Leyland cypress is a versatile tree that can be used for various landscaping purposes. Its dense foliage and pyramidal shape make it an excellent choice for privacy screens, windbreaks, or as a focal point in gardens. Additionally, it can be pruned into unique shapes, making it a popular choice for topiary designs.
3. The Exotic Beauty: Royal Paulownia Tree
Originating from Asia, the royal paulownia (also known as the empress tree or princess tree) is a fast-growing deciduous tree that has gained popularity in the United States for its rapid growth and stunning foliage.
With a growth rate of up to 6 feet (1.8 meters) per year, this tree can quickly transform any landscape.
Characteristics:
- Growth rate: Up to 6 feet (1.8 meters) per year
- Height: 30-50 feet (9-15 meters)
- Spread: 25-40 feet (7.6-12 meters)
- Hardiness zones: 5-9
Ideal Growing Conditions
The royal paulownia prefers well-drained, fertile soils and full sun exposure. It is relatively drought-tolerant once established but benefits from consistent moisture during the growing season. This tree is also adaptable to various soil types, including clay and sandy soils.
Landscaping Applications
With its large, heart-shaped leaves and fragrant purple flowers, the royal paulownia is a stunning addition to any landscape.
It can be used as a shade tree, specimen tree, or even as a focal point in larger gardens. Additionally, its fast growth rate makes it an excellent choice for those seeking quick results.
4. The Living Fossil: Dawn Redwood
Once thought to be extinct, the dawn redwood is a unique and fascinating tree that has been around for millions of years. This deciduous conifer is known for its rapid growth rate, reaching up to 3 feet (0.9 meters) per year.
With its distinctive fern-like foliage and attractive bark, the dawn redwood is a true standout in any landscape.
Characteristics:
- Growth rate: Up to 3 feet (0.9 meters) per year
- Height: 70-100 feet (21-30 meters)
- Spread: 25-35 feet (7.6-10.6 meters)
- Hardiness zones: 5-8
Ideal Growing Conditions
The dawn redwood prefers moist, well-drained soils and full sun exposure. It is tolerant of occasional flooding and can even thrive in areas with high water tables.
However, it’s essential to provide consistent moisture during the establishment period and in times of drought.
Landscaping Applications
With its unique appearance and rapid growth rate, the dawn redwood is an excellent choice for adding interest and height to any landscape. It can be used as a shade tree, specimen tree, or even as a focal point in larger gardens.
Additionally, its fern-like foliage and attractive bark make it a visually appealing addition to any outdoor space.
5. The Golden Beauty: Quaking Aspen
If you’re looking for a fast-growing tree that offers stunning fall color and a unique growth habit, the quaking aspen is an excellent choice.
This deciduous tree is known for its rapid growth rate, reaching up to 3 feet (0.9 meters) per year, and its distinctive leaves that flutter in the slightest breeze.
Characteristics:
- Growth rate: Up to 3 feet (0.9 meters) per year
- Height: 40-50 feet (12-15 meters)
- Spread: 20-30 feet (6-9 meters)
- Hardiness zones: 1-7
Ideal Growing Conditions
The quaking aspen prefers well-drained, moist soils and full sun exposure. It is relatively drought-tolerant once established but benefits from consistent moisture during the growing season. This tree is also adaptable to various soil types, including clay and sandy soils.
Landscaping Applications
With its stunning golden fall foliage and unique growth habit, the quaking aspen is a beautiful addition to any landscape. It can be used as a shade tree, specimen tree, or even as a focal point in larger gardens.
Additionally, its rapid growth rate makes it an excellent choice for those seeking quick results.
Conclusion
Whether you’re looking to add shade, privacy, or simply enhance the beauty of your outdoor space, these 5 fast-growing trees are excellent choices.
From the lightning-fast hybrid poplar to the exotic royal paulownia, each tree offers unique characteristics and benefits.
By selecting the right tree for your climate and growing conditions, you can enjoy the rewards of a lush, mature landscape in a fraction of the time.
Remember to consider factors such as mature size, soil requirements, and sunlight needs when selecting the perfect tree for your yard.
With proper care and maintenance, these fast-growing trees will provide years of enjoyment and environmental benefits for you and your family.
