A well-landscaped yard can significantly boost a home’s value, and fast-growing trees are one of the best ways to achieve instant impact. Trees provide shade, enhance curb appeal, and create a more inviting outdoor space—all of which make a property more desirable. Some trees can take decades to mature, but certain species grow rapidly, offering homeowners immediate benefits. Whether you want to increase privacy, reduce energy costs, or simply make your yard more attractive, choosing the right trees can make all the difference. Here are 14 fast-growing trees that can quickly add beauty and value to your property.
1. Hybrid Poplar
Hybrid poplars are one of the fastest-growing trees, adding up to 8 feet per year in height. According to the Arbor Day Foundation, these trees are a top choice for homeowners looking to create shade or windbreaks in a short period. They also contribute to property value by improving curb appeal and energy efficiency, as they help lower cooling costs in the summer. While they have a relatively short lifespan of 30 to 50 years, their rapid growth makes them an excellent choice for homeowners who want quick results.
For best results, plant hybrid poplars in well-drained soil with plenty of sunlight. They require regular watering, especially in the first few years, to establish strong roots. These trees are also highly adaptable, making them a reliable option for various climates. Just be mindful of their aggressive root systems, which can interfere with sidewalks and plumbing if planted too close to structures.
2. Quaking Aspen
Quaking aspens are known for their striking white bark and fluttering leaves that create a soothing rustling sound in the wind. The U.S. Forest Service notes that these trees can grow up to 5 feet per year, making them a popular choice for homeowners who want an elegant yet fast-growing addition to their landscape. They are particularly beneficial in cooler climates, where they thrive naturally.
These trees spread through underground root systems, often forming beautiful groves over time. While this can create a stunning natural display, it also means they may require regular maintenance to prevent unwanted spread. Their vibrant golden foliage in the fall adds seasonal beauty to any yard, making them an excellent investment for curb appeal.
3. Northern Red Oak
The northern red oak is a hardy tree that grows about 2 feet per year and can reach up to 75 feet in height. According to Better Homes & Gardens, this tree is a valuable asset for homeowners due to its strong, sturdy structure and deep root system, which makes it resistant to storms and high winds. It also provides ample shade, which can help lower cooling costs in the summer.
Northern red oaks thrive in a variety of soil conditions, making them adaptable to different environments. Their brilliant red foliage in the fall enhances their visual appeal, creating a striking focal point in any yard. Because of their durability and longevity, they are a solid investment for increasing property value.
4. River Birch
River birches are a favorite among landscapers due to their attractive peeling bark and ability to grow quickly, adding about 1.5 to 2 feet per year. The New York Times highlights river birch as a highly resilient species that thrives in both wet and dry conditions, making it ideal for homeowners looking for a low-maintenance but impactful tree. It is also resistant to pests and diseases, which helps maintain its health and longevity.
These trees are especially valuable in flood-prone areas, as their extensive root systems help control soil erosion. Their golden-yellow leaves in the fall add seasonal charm, while their unique bark provides visual interest year-round. Homeowners who want a tree that is both beautiful and functional will find river birch to be a great choice.
5. Weeping Willow
Weeping willows are iconic for their graceful, drooping branches and rapid growth. These trees can add up to 3 feet per year, making them one of the fastest-growing shade trees available. They are especially beneficial for properties near water, as their roots help absorb excess moisture and reduce erosion.
While stunning, weeping willows require ample space due to their large size and expansive root systems. They do best in areas with moist, well-drained soil and full sun. Their dramatic appearance can enhance any landscape, adding an elegant, timeless look to a property.
6. Tulip Tree
Tulip trees, also known as tulip poplars, are one of the tallest and fastest-growing native trees in North America. They can grow up to 3 feet per year and eventually reach heights of 90 feet or more. Their large, bright green leaves and tulip-shaped yellow flowers make them a striking addition to any yard.
These trees thrive in well-drained soil with plenty of sunlight. They are also relatively low-maintenance, making them an excellent choice for homeowners who want both beauty and convenience. Their towering presence and seasonal blooms make them a great long-term investment for property value.
7. Green Giant Arborvitae
For homeowners looking to add privacy to their property, the Green Giant Arborvitae is an excellent choice. These evergreen trees can grow up to 5 feet per year, forming dense, lush hedges that serve as natural barriers. Their thick foliage provides year-round coverage, making them perfect for windbreaks and noise reduction.
These trees are easy to maintain and resistant to pests and diseases. They thrive in a variety of soil conditions and require minimal pruning. Their ability to create a secluded, serene environment adds significant value to a property, making them a popular landscaping option.
8. Silver Maple
Silver maples are known for their rapid growth, adding up to 6 feet per year in optimal conditions. Their broad canopy provides excellent shade, which can help lower energy costs during hot summer months. Their silvery undersides give the leaves a shimmering effect, adding unique visual appeal to any yard.
While they grow quickly, silver maples have somewhat brittle wood, which can be prone to breakage in storms. Proper pruning and strategic placement away from structures can help mitigate this issue. Despite their drawbacks, their fast growth and beautiful foliage make them a desirable option for homeowners looking to boost curb appeal.
9. Leyland Cypress
Leyland cypress trees are a favorite for creating fast-growing privacy screens. These evergreens can grow up to 4 feet per year, forming dense, uniform hedges that block out noise and prying eyes. Their soft, feathery foliage gives them a refined appearance, making them a great choice for both residential and commercial properties.
These trees require well-drained soil and regular watering during their early years. They are relatively low-maintenance once established and can thrive in a range of climates. Their ability to create a private, tranquil space makes them a highly valuable addition to any landscape.
10. American Sycamore
The American sycamore is a striking tree known for its mottled white and brown bark, which peels away in patches to reveal a smooth, pale surface underneath. It grows rapidly, adding up to 3-6 feet per year, making it an excellent choice for homeowners who want quick shade and a visually interesting landscape. Because of its broad canopy and dense foliage, it provides excellent coverage, helping to cool down outdoor spaces during the summer months.
Sycamores are highly adaptable and thrive in a variety of soil conditions, but they do particularly well in moist, well-drained soil. They are also incredibly resilient, withstanding pollution and urban environments, which makes them a great choice for city properties. However, they require some maintenance, as their large leaves and seed balls can create seasonal debris. Still, their fast growth and dramatic appearance make them a solid investment for property value and curb appeal.
11. Eastern Redbud
For homeowners looking to add vibrant color to their yard, the Eastern redbud is an excellent option. This small but fast-growing tree can reach heights of 20-30 feet and is famous for its eye-catching pinkish-purple blossoms that emerge in early spring before its heart-shaped leaves appear. These flowers attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, making the tree a great addition to eco-friendly gardens.
Eastern redbuds grow at a moderate rate of about 2 feet per year and thrive in well-drained soil with full to partial sunlight. Once established, they require little maintenance and are relatively drought-tolerant. Their stunning seasonal display makes them a popular choice for front yards and decorative landscaping, increasing a home’s visual appeal and market value.
12. Dawn Redwood
The dawn redwood is a unique, fast-growing tree that adds an elegant, prehistoric touch to any landscape. It can grow up to 5 feet per year and reach towering heights of 70-100 feet over time. Unlike most conifers, the dawn redwood is deciduous, meaning it loses its feathery, bright-green foliage in the fall, turning a beautiful shade of coppery orange before shedding its needles.
This tree thrives in a range of soil conditions and is highly resistant to pests and diseases. Because of its rapid growth and striking beauty, it is an excellent choice for homeowners who want a standout feature in their yard. While it does require ample space to reach its full potential, its majestic presence and unique seasonal transformation make it a valuable addition to any property.
13. Empress Tree
The empress tree (Paulownia tomentosa) is one of the fastest-growing trees in the world, with the ability to grow up to 15 feet in a single year under ideal conditions. It is well-known for its enormous, heart-shaped leaves and clusters of fragrant, purple flowers that bloom in early spring. These flowers not only add stunning visual appeal but also attract pollinators, contributing to a healthier garden ecosystem.
Empress trees are highly adaptable and can thrive in a variety of soil types, including poor or compacted soil where other trees struggle. However, because of their rapid growth, they can become invasive in some areas if not properly managed. When planted responsibly, they offer an excellent combination of beauty, shade, and fast-growing benefits, making them a great choice for homeowners looking to enhance their property’s value quickly.
14. Norway Spruce
For homeowners who want a fast-growing evergreen that provides year-round greenery, the Norway spruce is an excellent option. This tree grows about 2-3 feet per year and can reach heights of 80 feet or more, making it a great choice for windbreaks, privacy screens, and large properties. Its dense, dark green needles provide a classic, forest-like appearance that enhances any landscape.
Norway spruce trees are low-maintenance and highly resistant to harsh weather conditions. They thrive in well-drained soil and full sun but can also tolerate partial shade. Their rapid growth and thick foliage make them ideal for creating natural barriers that block wind, reduce noise, and increase a home’s sense of seclusion—boosting both comfort and property value.
