Fast growing trees are generally considered to grow 2 ft per year or more.
What we are showcasing here are super fast growing trees, those that grow at least 3 ft (and up to 32 ft) per year!
19 Of The World’s Quickest Growing Trees (& Their Growth Rates)
1. Moluccan albizia – Falcataria moluccana
The fastest growing tree in the world according to the Guiness Book of Records, is the Moluccan albizia (Falcataria moluccana) with an incredible growth rate of over 32 ft in a year.
The Moluccan albizia (Falcataria moluccana), extensively cultivated across Southeast Asia for timber, demonstrates remarkable growth rates as recorded in various locations.
In Sabah, Malaysia, it was measured at 35 feet 2.8 inches (10.74 meters) after only 13 months, achieving a growth of about 2 feet 8.3 inches (0.82 meters) per month.
Furthermore, it reached 65 feet 11.3 inches (20.1 meters) in four years in Pare, East Java, Indonesia, and impressively grew to 118 feet 9.2 inches (36.2 meters) after 12 years in Ciamis, West Java, Indonesia.
This species has shown an exceptional average daily growth gain of approximately 1 inch (2.5 cm), highlighting its status as a rapidly growing tree.
The Moluccan tree’s wood is sought after for lightweight construction and paper production, and underscores its economic value.
However, its invasive potential in non-native territories raises ecological concerns, as it can dominate local flora and disrupt habitats.
It does however enrich soil fertility through nitrogen fixation, offering environmental benefits.
Due to its invasive nature, and narrow tropical growing zone we do not recommend planting this tree in your yard in the US.
- Growth Rate: 32 ft per year*
- USDA Growing Zones: 10-12
- Average Size: 100-130 ft tall, 70-100 ft wide
2. Moringa – Moringa oleifera
The Moringa tree, scientifically known as Moringa oleifera, is a fast-growing, drought-resistant tree native to the tropical and subtropical regions of South Asia.
It thrives in USDA growing zones 9-11, making it suitable for warm climates across the USA.
Remarkable for its rapid growth rate, the Moringa can shoot up by an impressive 10 to 16 feet each year.
Once mature, it reaches an average height of 25 to 35 feet and spreads out 15 to 25 feet wide.
This tree is not only valued for its quick growth but also for its nutritional and medicinal benefits, with many parts of the tree being edible and highly nutritious.
In fact, I have over a dozen Moringa trees growing in my yard and they don’t get a chance to reach their mature height as they are constantly being harvested, dried and powdered so I can make use of their incredible health benefits.
They grow so fast I can harvest several times each growing season.
- Growth Rate: 10-16 ft per year*
- USDA Growing Zones: 9-11
- Average Size: 25-35 ft tall, 15-25 ft wide
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3. Royal Empress Tree – Paulownia tomentosa
The Royal Empress Tree, known scientifically as Paulownia tomentosa, is a remarkably fast-growing tree that has captivated gardeners and landscapers in the USA.
With an astounding growth rate of 10 to 15 feet per year, it’s no wonder this tree is often chosen for quick shade and ornamental beauty.
It flourishes in a wide range of climates, suitable for USDA growing zones 5 through 11. Once fully grown, the Royal Empress Tree stands tall at 40 to 80 feet with a broad canopy spreading 20 to 40 feet wide.
Its large, heart-shaped leaves and spectacular spring blossoms make it a visually striking addition to any landscape.
Additionally, its rapid growth and tolerance for various climates make it an excellent choice for those looking to make a significant impact quickly.
- Growth Rate: 10-15 ft per year*
- USDA Growing Zones: 5-11
- Average Size: 40-80 ft tall, 20-40 ft wide
4. Plains Cottonwood – Populus deltoides monilifera
The Plains Cottonwood, known scientifically as Populus deltoides monilifera, is a fast-growing species native to the United States, particularly favored for its robust growth rate of 5 to 13 feet per year.
Thriving in USDA zones 3 through 9, it can reach towering heights of 60 to 80 feet and span 50 to 60 feet wide, providing ample shade and a strong presence in any landscape.
Characterized by its broad, fluttering leaves and a thick, sturdy trunk, the Plains Cottonwood is a striking addition to riverbanks and wetlands, where it naturally proliferates.
This tree is not only sought after for its rapid growth and sizeable canopy but also for its resilience and adaptability to various environments, making it a popular choice for parks, large gardens, and naturalized areas.
- Growth Rate: 5-13 ft per year*
- USDA Growing Zones: 3-9
- Average Size: 60-80 ft tall, 50-60 ft wide
5. Fruitless Mulberry – Morus alba ‘Fruitless’
The Fruitless Mulberry tree, scientifically known as Morus alba ‘Fruitless’, is a fast-growing, hardy variety cherished for its lush foliage and generous shade.
Thriving in USDA growing zones 3B through 9, this tree boasts a rapid growth rate of 10 to 12 feet per year, reaching a mature height of 25 to 50 feet with a spread of 30 to 40 feet.
Its large, verdant leaves create a dense canopy, making it an excellent choice for those seeking to quickly establish shade in their landscape.
Unlike its fruit-bearing counterparts, the ‘Fruitless’ variety minimizes mess, offering the beauty and benefits of a mulberry tree without the maintenance of cleaning up fallen fruit.
This makes it particularly appealing for use in public spaces and residential areas alike.
- Growth Rate: 10-12 ft per year*
- USDA Growing Zones: 3B-9
- Average Size: 25-50 ft tall, 30-40 ft wide
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6. White Mulberry – Morus alba
The White Mulberry, Morus alba, is a fast-growing tree renowned for its rapid annual growth of 10 to 12 feet, making it an excellent choice for those seeking quick canopy development.
Adapted to a wide range of climates, it flourishes in USDA growing zones 4 through 10. The White Mulberry can reach a lofty height of 30 to 60 feet with a spread of 20 to 40 feet, creating a broad and inviting shade.
While originally native to China, it has become popular across the United States for its tolerance to different soil types, urban pollution, and its ability to provide quick shade.
Additionally, this tree is valued for its sweet, edible berries and its use in traditional medicine and silk production. Its versatility and ease of growth make the White Mulberry a favored choice for landscapes and gardens.
- Growth Rate: 10-12 ft per year*
- USDA Growing Zones: 4-10
- Average Size: 30-60 ft tall, 20-40 ft wide
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7. Panama Berry – Muntingia calabura
The Panama Berry, Muntingia calabura, is a fast-growing, fruit-bearing tree known for its rapid growth rate of 5 to 11 feet per year.
I have one of these in my yard and and grew from a 2 ft sapling, to the tree you see in the photos above, in just a few years!
The Panama Berry tree is well-adapted to warm climates, thriving in USDA zones 9 through 12. This tree reaches a manageable height of 16 to 40 feet with a spread of 13 to 20 feet, making it an ideal choice for smaller landscapes or gardens where space is a premium.
The Panama Berry is celebrated for its small, sweet fruits that resemble cherries, which are loved by both people and wildlife. Additionally, it features delicate, green foliage and small, white flowers that add a touch of beauty to any setting.
This tree is highly valued not only for its quick growth and delicious fruit but also for its ability to attract birds and butterflies, enhancing the biodiversity of the garden.
Its tolerance for a range of soil types and conditions, along with minimal care requirements, makes the Panama Berry a favored choice for gardeners looking to add a tropical flair to their outdoor spaces.
- Growth Rate: 5 – 11 ft per year*
- USDA Growing Zones: 9-12
- Average Size: Height 16-40 ft tall, 13-20 ft wide
8. Chinaberry Tree – Melia azedarach
The Chinaberry Tree, Melia azedarach, is a fast-growing, deciduous tree known for its rapid annual growth rate of 5 to 10 feet.
It thrives in USDA zones 7 through 11, reaching a mature height of 20 to 40 feet with a spread of 20 to 25 feet.
This tree is celebrated for its fragrant, lilac-colored blossoms that appear in spring, followed by distinctive yellow berries that attract birds.
Its light, spreading canopy provides dappled shade, making it a favorite for gardens and streetscapes.
The Chinaberry Tree is also valued for its drought tolerance and ability to adapt to various soil types, although it’s important to note it can be invasive in some areas.
With its striking appearance and fast growth, the Chinaberry Tree adds beauty and charm to any landscape.
- Growth Rate: 5-10 ft per year*
- USDA Growing Zones: 7-11
- Average Size: 20-40 ft tall, 20-25 ft wide
9. Chinese Tallow – Triadica sebifera
The Chinese Tallow Tree, Triadica sebifera, is a fast-growing, deciduous tree known for its striking fall foliage that turns vibrant shades of yellow, orange, and red.
With a growth rate of 3 to 10 feet per year, it quickly establishes itself, reaching heights of 20 to 50 feet and a canopy width of 20 to 30 feet.
Suited to USDA zones 8 through 11, this tree thrives in a variety of soil conditions and is drought-tolerant once established.
Its rapid growth and beautiful seasonal color make it a popular choice for landscaping. However, it’s important to note that the Chinese Tallow is considered invasive in some areas due to its ability to spread aggressively.
Its seeds are attractive to wildlife, which helps in its dispersion. Careful consideration should be given to its planting location to manage its spread and impact on local ecosystems.
- Growth Rate: 3-10 ft per year*
- USDA Growing Zones: 8-11
- Average Size: 20-50 ft tall, 20-30 ft wide
10. Desert Museum Palo Verde – Cercidium x ‘Desert Museum’
The Desert Museum Palo Verde, Cercidium x ‘Desert Museum’, is a stunning, fast-growing tree that combines the best features of its Palo Verde relatives.
With a growth rate of 5 to 10 feet per year, it quickly reaches its mature height of 20 to 30 feet and a spread of 20 to 40 feet, making it an excellent choice for those seeking rapid shade and visual impact.
Suited to USDA zones 6 through 11, this hybrid is particularly noted for its vibrant yellow flowers that bloom in spring, creating a spectacular display against the backdrop of its green, photosynthetic bark and branches.
Drought-tolerant and low-maintenance, the Desert Museum Palo Verde is ideal for xeriscaping and adds a burst of color and beauty to arid and semi-arid landscapes without requiring much water.
Its open, airy canopy allows light through, making it compatible with underplantings.
- Growth Rate: 5-10 ft per year*
- USDA Growing Zones: 6-11
- Average Size: 20-30 ft tall, 20-40 ft wide
11. Willow Hybrid Tree – Salix x matsudana x alba
The Willow Hybrid, Salix x matsudana x alba, stands out for its impressive growth rate of 5 to 10 feet per year, making it one of the fastest-growing trees in the US.
Suited for USDA zones 4 through 9, it can soar to heights of 50 to 75 feet with a spread of 30 to 50 feet.
This tree is a hybrid between the white willow and the Chinese willow, combining the best traits of both to create a robust, resilient tree with a dense canopy.
Its rapid growth and large size make it an excellent choice for fast growing privacy screens or windbreaks, as well as adding lush, green beauty to landscapes in a short amount of time.
The Willow Hybrid thrives in a variety of soil types and conditions, further cementing its status as a versatile and valuable addition to any planting project.
- Growth Rate: 5-10 ft per year*
- USDA Growing Zones: 4-9
- Average Size: 50-75 ft tall, 30-50 ft wide
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12. Weeping Willow – Salix babylonica
The Weeping Willow, Salix babylonica, is renowned for its elegant beauty and swift growth, achieving 5 to 10 feet per year.
Flourishing in USDA zones 4 through 9, it reaches a mature height and width of 30 to 50 feet, creating a dramatic, sweeping presence in any landscape.
This tree’s distinctive feature is its long, slender branches that gracefully drape towards the ground, reminiscent of flowing tears, hence the name “Weeping” Willow.
It prefers moist, well-drained soils, making it an ideal choice for planting near water bodies like rivers, ponds, and lakes.
The Weeping Willow’s rapid growth and picturesque form make it a favorite among gardeners seeking to add a touch of tranquility and movement to their outdoor spaces.
- Growth Rate: 5-10 ft per year*
- USDA Growing Zones: 4-9
- Average Size: 30-50 ft tall, 30-50 ft wide
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13. Hybrid Poplar (Superior) – Populus deltoides x nigra
The Hybrid Poplar ‘Superior’, a cross between Populus deltoides and Populus nigra, stands out for its exceptional growth rate of 6 to 8 feet per year.
This vigorous grower thrives in USDA zones 3 through 9, reaching lofty heights of 60 to 80 feet with a spread of 25 to 40 feet.
Its rapid growth and towering presence make it an ideal choice for creating quick shade or privacy screens in a variety of landscapes.
The Hybrid Poplar is also appreciated for its resilience and adaptability, able to flourish in a wide range of soil types and conditions.
With its lush foliage and stately form, this tree not only provides practical benefits but also adds a majestic touch to its surroundings, making it a popular choice for both residential and commercial properties seeking fast results.
- Growth Rate: 6-8 ft per year*
- USDA Growing Zones: 3-9
- Average Size: 60-80 ft tall, 25-40 ft wide
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14. Eastern Cottonwood – Populus deltoides
The Eastern Cottonwood, Populus deltoides, is a native American tree celebrated for its impressive growth rate of 4 to 8 feet per year, making it one of the fastest-growing trees in various regions.
Thriving in USDA zones 2 through 9, it can tower to heights of 50 to 100 feet with a broad canopy spread of 30 to 60 feet.
This tree is easily recognizable by its broad, triangular leaves that flutter beautifully in the breeze, creating a soothing sound.
The Eastern Cottonwood prefers moist, well-drained soils, often found along riverbanks and wetland areas.
Its rapid growth and large size make it an excellent choice for providing quick shade and habitat for wildlife.
However, its size and root system require consideration of planting location to avoid conflicts with infrastructure.
With its stately stature and environmental benefits, the Eastern Cottonwood is a valuable addition to expansive landscapes and natural areas.
- Growth Rate: 4-8 ft per year*
- USDA Growing Zones: 2-9
- Average Size: 50-100 ft tall, 30-60 ft wide
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15. Dunstan Chestnut – Castanea dentata x mollissima
The Dunstan Chestnut is a hybrid tree, a cross between the American chestnut (Castanea dentata) and the Chinese chestnut (Castanea mollissima), known for its robust growth rate of 4 to 7 feet per year.
It is well-suited for USDA zones 5 through 9, maturing to heights of 40 to 60 feet with a canopy that spreads 30 to 40 feet wide.
This tree was developed as part of an effort to create a chestnut variety resistant to chestnut blight, which decimated the American chestnut population in the early 20th century.
The Dunstan Chestnut not only offers resistance to this disease but also provides valuable timber and edible nuts, making it an excellent choice for both reforestation projects and nut production.
Its attractive foliage and the added benefit of producing edible chestnuts make it a desirable addition to landscapes and gardens, combining practicality with aesthetic appeal.
- Growth Rate: 4-7 ft per year*
- USDA Growing Zones: 5-9
- Average Size: 40-60 ft tall, 30-40 ft wide
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16. Silver Maple Tree – Acer saccharinum
The Silver Maple Tree, Acer saccharinum, is a fast-growing species, renowned for its ability to grow 4 to 6 feet per year.
Adaptable to USDA zones 3 through 9, it can reach a majestic height of 60 to 80 feet with a widespread canopy of 40 to 60 feet.
This tree is especially valued for its striking appearance; its leaves are green on top and silver underneath, shimmering beautifully in the breeze.
The Silver Maple’s rapid growth rate and large size make it an excellent choice for those seeking quick shade.
However, it’s important to note that its wood is relatively weak, which may require maintenance in areas prone to strong winds or heavy snow.
The Silver Maple thrives in a variety of soil conditions, including wet soils, making it a versatile addition to landscapes needing fast-growing, visually impactful trees.
- Growth Rate: 4-6 ft per year*
- USDA Growing Zones: 3-9
- Average Size: 60-80 ft tall, 40-60 ft wide
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17. Mexican Sycamore – Platanus Mexicana
The Mexican Sycamore, Platanus mexicana, is a fast-growing tree admired for its striking appearance and rapid growth rate of 4 to 6 feet per year.
Suitable for USDA zones 4 through 10, it reaches heights of 40 to 60 feet with a canopy spread of 20 to 40 feet.
This tree is particularly noted for its large, glossy leaves that have a distinctive white underside, giving it a unique visual appeal.
The Mexican Sycamore’s bark is another notable feature, peeling away in patches to reveal a smooth, mottled surface of whites and greens beneath.
This sycamore variety is more drought-tolerant than its relatives, making it a valuable choice for landscapes in need of fast-growing shade trees that can withstand varied conditions.
Its resilience and ornamental qualities make the Mexican Sycamore a favored choice for adding a touch of elegance to parks, streets, and large gardens.
- Growth Rate: 4-6 ft per year*
- USDA Growing Zones: 4-10
- Average Size: 40-60 ft tall, 20-40 ft wide
18. Lombardy Poplar Tree – Populus nigra
The Lombardy Poplar, Populus nigra ‘Italica’, is a columnar variety of poplar known for its fast growth rate of 3 to 6 feet per year and its distinctive, narrow shape.
Thriving in USDA zones 2 through 10, it reaches heights of 40 to 60 feet while maintaining a slender width of just 10 to 15 feet.
This unique form makes it an excellent choice for creating privacy screens or dramatic vertical elements in the landscape.
The Lombardy Poplar’s tall, upright growth and dense foliage provide a striking architectural feature, especially when planted in rows.
While it adapts well to a variety of soil types, this tree does best in moist, well-drained conditions and full sun.
Its rapid growth and ease of maintenance have made it a popular choice for windbreaks and quick landscaping solutions, though its susceptibility to certain pests and diseases requires consideration and possible management.
- Growth Rate: 3-6 ft per year*
- USDA Growing Zones: 2-10
- Average Size: 40-60 ft tall, 10-15 ft wide
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19. Rainbow Eucalyptus Tree – Eucalyptus deglupta
The Rainbow Eucalyptus, Eucalyptus deglupta, is truly a marvel of nature, celebrated not only for its rapid growth rate of 3 to 5 feet per year but also for its stunning, multi-colored bark.
Thriving in USDA zones 9 through 11, this tree can soar to heights of 60 to 200 feet with a canopy spread of 20 to 40 feet.
The bark peels away in strips to reveal a bright, ever-changing palette of blues, greens, oranges, and purples, making it one of the most visually striking trees in the world.
Originally from the Philippines, Indonesia, and Papua New Guinea, the Rainbow Eucalyptus prefers a humid, tropical climate and requires ample water to thrive.
It is often planted for its ornamental value in parks and large gardens, where its impressive size and unique appearance can be fully appreciated.
Beyond its beauty, it’s also valued for its fast growth and wood production in suitable climates.
- Growth Rate: 3-5 ft per year*
- USDA Growing Zones: 9-11
- Average Size: 60-200 ft tall, 20-40 ft wide
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Rapid Growing Trees Compared
| # | Tree Name | Scientific Name | USDA Growing Zones | Average Size | Growth Rate (ft/year) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Moluccan albizia | Falcataria moluccana | 10-12 | 100-130 ft tall, 70-100 ft wide | 32* |
| 2 | Moringa | Moringa oleifera | 9-11 | 25-35 ft tall, 15-25 ft wide | 10-16* |
| 3 | Royal Empress Tree | Paulownia tomentosa | 5-11 | 40-80 ft tall, 20-40 ft wide | 10-15* |
| 4 | Plains Cottonwood | Populus deltoides monilifera | 3-9 | 60-80 ft tall, 50-60 ft wide | 5-13* |
| 5 | Fruitless Mulberry | Morus alba ‘Fruitless’ | 3B-9 | 25-50 ft tall, 30-40 ft wide | 10-12* |
| 6 | White Mulberry | Morus alba | 4-10 | 30-60 ft tall, 20-40 ft wide | 10-12* |
| 7 | Panama Berry | Muntingia calabura | 9-12 | 16-40 ft tall, 13-20 ft wide | 5-11* |
| 8 | Chinaberry Tree | Melia azedarach | 7-11 | 20-40 ft tall, 20-25 ft wide | 5-10* |
| 9 | Chinese Tallow | Triadica sebifera | 8-11 | 20-50 ft tall, 20-30 ft wide | 3-10* |
| 10 | Desert Museum Palo Verde | Cercidium x ‘Desert Museum’ | 6-11 | 20-30 ft tall, 20-40 ft wide | 5-10* |
| 11 | Willow Hybrid Tree | Salix x matsudana x alba | 4-9 | 50-75 ft tall, 30-50 ft wide | 5-10* |
| 12 | Weeping Willow | Salix babylonica | 4-9 | 30-50 ft tall, 30-50 ft wide | 5-10* |
| 13 | Hybrid Poplar (Superior) | Populus deltoides x nigra | 3-9 | 60-80 ft tall, 25-40 ft wide | 6-8* |
| 14 | Eastern Cottonwood | Populus deltoides | 2-9 | 50-100 ft tall, 30-60 ft wide | 4-8* |
| 15 | Dunstan Chestnut | Castanea dentata x mollissima | 5-9 | 40-60 ft tall, 30-40 ft wide | 4-7* |
| 16 | Silver Maple Tree | Acer saccharinum | 3-9 | 60-80 ft tall, 40-60 ft wide | 4-6* |
| 17 | Mexican Sycamore | Platanus Mexicana | 4-10 | 40-60 ft tall, 20-40 ft wide | 4-6* |
| 18 | Lombardy Poplar Tree | Populus nigra ‘Italica’ | 2-10 | 40-60 ft tall, 10-15 ft wide | 3-6* |
| 19 | Rainbow Eucalyptus Tree | Eucalyptus deglupta | 9-11 | 60-200 ft tall, 20-40 ft wide | 3-5* |
How to Transform Your Space with Rapid Growing Trees
Incorporating the practical applications and uses of these fast-growing trees can enrich your landscape while also providing functional benefits.
Many of these species serve specific purposes beyond mere aesthetics, such as creating privacy, offering shade, and acting as natural windbreaks.
Here’s how some of the featured trees can be utilized in your outdoor spaces:
- Privacy and Screening: Trees like the Willow Hybrid and Lombardy Poplar are excellent choices for creating natural privacy screens. Their rapid growth and dense foliage can quickly shield your yard from prying eyes, making them perfect for boundary planting.
- Shade: The expansive canopies of trees like the Royal Empress Tree and Plains Cottonwood provide generous shade, creating cool, protected areas in your garden. This not only enhances outdoor comfort during hot summer months but also offers protection for shade-loving plants.
- Windbreaks: The Hybrid Poplar and Eastern Cottonwood are particularly effective as windbreaks. Their quick growth and robust stature can help reduce wind speed in open areas, protecting smaller plants and reducing soil erosion.
- Ornamental Beauty: Trees such as the Rainbow Eucalyptus and Chinese Tallow add a stunning visual appeal to any landscape. The unique bark of the Rainbow Eucalyptus and the vibrant fall colors of the Chinese Tallow make them focal points in any garden design.
- Wildlife Habitat: Species like the Panama Berry and Fruitless Mulberry attract a variety of wildlife. The small, sweet fruits of the Panama Berry are a favorite among birds and butterflies, while the dense canopy of the Fruitless Mulberry offers nesting sites and shelter.
- Drought Resistance: For areas prone to dry conditions, the Desert Museum Palo Verde and Mexican Sycamore offer beauty and shade without requiring extensive irrigation. Their drought tolerance makes them ideal for xeriscaping and water-wise gardening.
By choosing trees that align with your landscaping goals, you can enjoy the dual benefits of rapid growth and functional utility.
Whether you aim to create a private oasis, a wind-sheltered garden, or a haven for local fauna, there’s a fast-growing tree to meet your needs.
Consider integrating these trees into your landscape design not only for their speed but for the myriad benefits they bring to your outdoor living spaces.
Disclaimer: Please note we did our best to source the most accurate data possible for these tree growth rates and USDA growing zones, however there are many conflicting reputable sources online. Also take into account all growth rates are approximations as actual performance varies with climate, soil, and care.
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