15 Fastest Growing Trees in Ghana

Ghana is known for its tropical climate and diverse flora, which includes a range of fast-growing trees that can provide numerous benefits.

If you’re looking for trees that can quickly grow and offer various uses such as timber, shade, and ornamental beauty, you’ve come to the right place.

From the majestic African mahogany to the fragrant neem tree, you’ll discover a variety of trees that can meet your needs and preferences while adding to the beauty of your surroundings.

15 Fastest Growing Trees In Ghana

There are different varieties of trees that you can grow in Ghana. However, regarding our discussion, we will compile15 fast growing trees in Ghana that you can plant in your garden.

#1. Teak (Tectona grandis)

Teak (Tectona grandis) is a popular and fast-growing hardwood tree species that is widely cultivated in Ghana for its high-quality wood.

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Teak trees have a straight trunk, which makes them ideal for sawing into long, straight planks, and their wood is known for its durability and resistance to decay.

Teak trees can grow up to 40 meters in height and have a growth rate of about 1-1.5 meters per year. It takes about 10-15 years for teak trees to reach maturity and start producing wood that can be harvested.

The wood from teak trees is used in various applications, including furniture, boat building, and construction.

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#2. Sapele (Entandrophragma cylindricum)

Sapele is a large, tropical hardwood tree that is native to West Africa, including Ghana. It has a straight trunk and a wide, spreading crown that can reach up to 30 meters in height.

The bark is brown and rough, while the leaves are dark green and shiny. The wood of the Sapele tree is highly valued for its durability and is often used in furniture making, construction, and boat building.

The tree has a moderate to fast growth rate, with an average height increase of around 1.5 meters per year. It can take up to 20 years for Sapele trees to reach maturity and produce high-quality wood.

#3. Ofram (Terminalia superba)

Ofram, also known as African teak, is a fast-growing tree species native to Ghana that can reach heights of up to 50 meters.

It has a straight trunk and a dense crown of dark green leaves. The bark of the tree is grey-brown, rough and fissured.

Ofram can grow at an average rate of about 1-1.5 meters per year and reaches maturity in about 25 years.

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Ofram wood is highly valued for its durability, hardness, and resistance to decay and insects. It is commonly used for flooring, furniture, cabinetry, and construction.

The bark and leaves of the Ofram tree have medicinal properties and are used in traditional medicine for treating various ailments.

The tree also provides a source of shade and serves as a habitat for various wildlife species.

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#4. Wawa (Triplochiton scleroxylon)

Wawa, also known as African whitewood or arere in Yoruba language, is a fast-growing hardwood tree that is native to tropical Africa, including Ghana.

It is a large tree that can grow up to 45 meters tall and 2 meters in diameter, with a straight trunk and a rounded crown.

The bark is smooth and grayish-white in color, while the leaves are large, broad, and glossy green. Wawa is highly valued for its durable and attractive timber, which is used for furniture making, flooring, construction, and boat building.

It has a growth rate of about 1-1.5 meters per year and can reach maturity in 25-30 years.

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#5. Mahogany (Khaya ivorensis)

Mahogany is a fast-growing tree that can grow up to 50 meters tall with a trunk diameter of up to 2 meters. It has a straight trunk, with a broad, round canopy.

The bark is grayish-brown, and the leaves are pinnate with up to 8 pairs of leaflets. The wood is of high quality, and it is used in the construction of furniture, flooring, and boats.

Mahogany has a moderate growth rate and can reach maturity in about 25-30 years. It prefers well-drained soil and can grow in both full sun and partial shade.

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#6. Cedrela (Cedrela odorata)

Cedrela is a fast-growing deciduous tree that can grow up to 30 meters tall. It has a straight trunk and a pyramidal-shaped canopy.

The bark is gray-brown, and the leaves are pinnate with up to 11 leaflets. The wood is lightweight, durable, and resistant to decay, making it ideal for furniture and musical instruments.

Cedrela has a fast growth rate and can reach maturity in about 15-20 years. It prefers well-drained soil and can grow in both full sun and partial shade. It is also used for shade, erosion control, and windbreaks.

#7. Emire (Terminalia ivorensis)

Emire, also known as Ivory Coast Almond, is a fast-growing hardwood tree species found in Ghana. The tree can reach a height of up to 50 meters and a diameter of up to 2 meters.

The bark is smooth and greyish-brown in color, and the leaves are elliptic and can grow up to 20 centimeters long.

Emire has a growth rate of about 1-2 meters per year, and it can reach maturity in 25-30 years.

Emire wood is used in the production of furniture, flooring, and veneer. The wood is also popular for making carvings and decorative objects.

#8. Acacia (Acacia auriculiformis)

Acacia is a fast-growing tree species that is native to Australia but is also found in Ghana. The tree can reach a height of up to 30 meters and has a trunk diameter of up to 70 centimeters.

The bark is rough and greyish-brown, and the leaves are feathery and green.

Acacia has a rapid growth rate of up to 3 meters per year and can reach maturity in 5-7 years.

The tree is commonly used for fuelwood, as well as in the production of charcoal, furniture, and paper. The wood is also used for landscaping and as a windbreak or shade tree.

#9. Neem (Azadirachta indica)

Neem (Azadirachta indica) is a fast-growing tree species native to India that has become naturalized in many parts of Ghana.

The tree is evergreen and can grow up to 15-20 meters in height with a spread of about 15 meters. It has a dense and spreading crown and a deep taproot.

Neem is known for its medicinal properties and is used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments.

It is also used in the production of cosmetics, soaps, and other beauty products. Neem grows at a moderate rate of about 1-2 meters per year and can reach maturity in 10-15 years.

#10. Rubber Tree (Hevea brasiliensis)

Rubber Tree (Hevea brasiliensis) is a fast-growing tree species that is widely cultivated in Ghana for its latex, which is used in the production of rubber.

The tree can grow up to 30 meters in height with a trunk diameter of up to 2 meters. It has a straight and cylindrical stem with a narrow crown.

The rubber tree grows at a rate of about 1-2 meters per year and can reach maturity in 6-7 years.

Apart from its commercial use, rubber tree wood is also used for making furniture, flooring, and other wood products.

#11. Mango (Mangifera indica)

Mango is a fast-growing evergreen tree with a dense, round canopy and an average height of 10 to 40 meters.

Its leaves are oblong and leathery, and the tree produces fragrant, yellow or orange fruit with juicy, sweet flesh.

Mango trees can grow up to 1 meter per year and can reach maturity in 6 to 7 years.

Mangoes are widely cultivated in Ghana and are a popular fruit for both domestic consumption and export. The tree’s wood is also used for furniture and construction.

#12. Cashew (Anacardium occidentale)

Cashew is a fast-growing, small to medium-sized evergreen tree with a spreading canopy and a height of 5 to 12 meters.

Its leaves are oblong and leathery, and the tree produces yellow, bell-shaped flowers that develop into a kidney-shaped nut with a delicious, edible kernel.

Cashew trees can grow up to 1 meter per year and can reach maturity in 3 to 5 years.

Cashew nuts are an important cash crop in Ghana and are widely used in confectionery and culinary industries. The tree’s wood is also used for fuel, fencing, and furniture.

#13. Gmelina (Gmelina arborea)

Gmelina (Gmelina arborea) is a fast-growing deciduous tree species that is native to Africa, Asia, and Australia.

The tree is known for its straight trunk, which can grow up to 35 meters in height, and its spreading crown. Gmelina trees grow rapidly, with an average annual growth rate of about 1.5 meters.

It takes approximately 5 to 7 years for the tree to reach maturity, and it can live for up to 40 years. Gmelina is widely used for its high-quality timber, which is ideal for furniture, construction, and carpentry.

Going further, its bark, leaves, and seeds have medicinal properties and are used in traditional medicine for various ailments.

#14. Oil Palm (Elaeis guineensis)

African Locust Bean, also known as Parkia biglobosa, is a fast-growing tree that belongs to the Fabaceae family.

This tree is widely distributed in West Africa and can grow up to 20 meters in height. It has a broad, spreading crown and a straight trunk that can reach up to 1 meter in diameter.

African Locust Bean has a fast growth rate and can reach maturity within 5-10 years. African Locust Bean is known for its edible pods and seeds, which are commonly used in West African cuisine.

The pods are rich in nutrients and can be cooked or fermented to produce condiments and seasonings. The seeds are also edible and can be ground into flour for use in soups, sauces, and porridges.

#15. African Locust Bean (Parkia biglobosa)

In addition to its culinary uses, African Locust Bean has many other applications. The bark and leaves of the tree are used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including malaria, fever, and diarrhea.

The wood of the tree is durable and strong, making it ideal for use in construction and furniture making. The tree is also used for erosion control and as a shade tree in agroforestry systems.

Benefits of Fast-Growing Trees In Ghana

Fast-growing trees have numerous benefits in Ghana. They help to control soil erosion, provide timber for construction, furniture, and other wood products, and contribute to the country’s economy.

These trees can also serve as a source of shade, food, and medicine for people and animals.

They can help to improve air quality, as trees absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, making the environment more habitable.

Challenges of Planting Fast Growing Trees in Ghana

Despite the benefits, there are several challenges associated with planting fast-growing trees in Ghana.

One of the main challenges is land tenure, as many lands in Ghana are privately owned, and landowners may not be willing to allocate land for tree planting.

Other challenges include limited access to financing for tree planting, lack of technical knowledge, and inadequate monitoring and evaluation of tree planting activities.

Factors to consider when Planting Fast Growing Trees in Ghana

Several factors must be considered when planting fast-growing trees in Ghana. These factors include the availability of water, the type of soil, and the climate in the area where the trees will be planted.

It is essential to choose tree species that are suitable for the local conditions to ensure that they grow well and reach maturity quickly.

It is important to consider the economic and social benefits that the trees will provide, such as timber, food, and medicine, and to involve local communities in the planting process to ensure sustainability.

In addition, adequate resources, such as funding, technical assistance, and monitoring, must be available to support tree planting activities.

Importance of Planting Fast Growing Trees in Ghana

Fast growing trees play a vital role in the development and improvement of Ghana’s forest resources.

They have a rapid growth rate, which means they can provide timber and other forest products within a short time, thus reducing the pressure on the slow-growing tree species.

Fast-growing trees can also help in combating climate change by sequestering carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, thus mitigating the effects of climate change.

Moreover, they help to improve soil fertility and reduce erosion by holding the soil together, which is crucial in improving the agricultural productivity of the land.

Best Practices of Planting Fast Growing Trees in Ghana

When planting fast-growing trees in Ghana, it is essential to consider the following best practices.

Firstly, it is important to select the right species that is well adapted to the local climatic and soil conditions.

Secondly, it is crucial to prepare the site by clearing any debris, rocks, and other vegetation that may compete with the young trees.

Thirdly, the seedlings should be planted in a hole that is deep enough to accommodate the roots.

Fourthly, the seedlings should be watered regularly to ensure their survival. Finally, it is important to manage the trees by controlling weeds, pests, and diseases.

Is Fertilizer Important for Fast Growing Tree?

Fertilizer is essential for the growth and development of fast-growing trees in Ghana. Fertilizers provide the essential nutrients that the trees require for growth and development.

These nutrients include nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, which are necessary for the development of healthy leaves, stems, and roots.

Fertilizer helps to improve soil fertility, which is critical in ensuring the long-term growth and productivity of the trees.

However, it is important to note that excessive fertilizer use can lead to environmental pollution and nutrient imbalances in the soil, thus affecting the health of the trees.

Is fast Growing Trees Profitable?

Fast-growing trees can be profitable in Ghana, especially when grown for commercial purposes.

These trees can provide timber and other forest products, which can be sold for income.

More so, fast-growing trees can be grown in agroforestry systems, where they can provide shade, soil conservation, and other benefits to crops, thus improving the agricultural productivity of the land.

However, it is important to note that the profitability of fast-growing trees depends on various factors, such as the market demand, cost of production, and government policies.

Therefore, it is crucial to conduct proper market research and planning before investing in fast-growing tree plantations for commercial purposes.

Fast Growing Trees for Privacy

If you are looking for privacy in your backyard or garden, planting fast-growing trees is an excellent option. Some of the best trees for privacy are Leyland cypress, Thuja Green Giant, and Eastern White Pine.

These trees can grow up to 5 feet per year and provide excellent screening for your property. They are also low-maintenance and can withstand various weather conditions.

Fastest Growing Tree in the World

The fastest growing tree in the world is the Eucalyptus deglupta or Rainbow Eucalyptus tree. Native to the Philippines, this tree can grow up to 6-10 feet per year and reach a height of 250 feet.

It is known for its striking multicolored bark and is commonly grown as an ornamental tree.

Fast Growing Small Trees

If you have limited space in your garden or want to add some diversity to your landscape, fast-growing small trees are an excellent choice.

Some of the best options are the Japanese maple, crepe myrtle, and dogwood trees.

These trees can grow up to 3 feet per year and reach a maximum height of 20-30 feet, making them perfect for smaller gardens.

Fast Growing Evergreen Trees for Privacy

Evergreen trees are an excellent choice for year-round privacy, and some of the fastest-growing options are Leyland cypress, Thuja Green Giant, and Arizona Cypress.

These trees can grow up to 4-5 feet per year and provide an excellent screening option for your property. They are low-maintenance and can endure unfavorable weather circumstances.

Fast Growing Fruit Trees

If you are looking to grow your fruit trees, some of the fastest-growing options are cherry, apple, and peach trees.

These trees can grow up to 3-4 feet per year and start producing fruit within 2-3 years. They are also relatively low-maintenance and provide a bountiful harvest during the fruiting season.

Fast Growing Trees Reviews

Before investing in fast-growing trees, it is essential to research and read reviews to ensure you are selecting the best options for your needs.

Online reviews and forums provide insights into the growth rate, maintenance requirements, and overall performance of various fast-growing trees, helping you make an informed decision.

Fast Growing Shrubs

Fast-growing shrubs are an excellent option for hedges, privacy screens, or adding texture to your landscape. Some of the best options are the Forsythia, Nandina, and Photinia shrubs. These shrubs can grow up to 2-3 feet per year and provide vibrant foliage and flowers.

Fast Growing Trees Careers

Fast-growing trees provide an excellent opportunity for careers in the forestry industry, such as arborists, foresters, and urban planners.

These professionals work to maintain and manage fast-growing trees in urban and rural environments, ensuring their growth and longevity while also providing numerous environmental benefits.

Conclusion

There are various fast-growing trees that can be planted in Ghana. These trees have numerous benefits ranging from economic to environmental. It is important to consider factors such as climate and soil type before selecting a suitable tree. Ultimately, planting fast-growing trees in Ghana can contribute to a healthier and more sustainable environment.