15 Fast Growing Trees In Texas

Texas is a state that is renowned for its diverse climate, which ranges from arid deserts to humid subtropical regions. This makes it an ideal location for cultivating a wide variety of fast-growing trees that can thrive in various conditions.

These trees are not only important for beautification purposes but also for environmental conservation, timber, and other commercial purposes.

15 Fastest Growing Trees In Texas

Growing trees has its benefits aside from making your environment beautiful. Although, there is the belief that trees take ages to grow, there are fast growing trees that you can plant in Texas.

Some of the fastest growing trees in Texas are Texas Ash (Fraxinus texensis), Red Maple (Acer rubrum), Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis), American Sycamore (Platanus occidentalis), American Elm (Ulmus americana), Cherry Laurel Tree (Prunus caroliniana), Flowering Dogwood Tree (Cornus florida), Common Hackberry (Celtis occidentalis), Tuliptree (Liriodendron tulipifera), Desert Willow (Chilopsis linearis), Water Oak (Quercus nigra), Leyland Cypress (Cupressus × leylandii), River Birch (Betula nigra), Italian Cypress (Cupressus sempervirens), and Shumard Oak (Quercus shumardii).

#1.     Texas Ash (Fraxinus texensis)

If you’re looking for a fast-growing tree that can thrive in Texas, the Texas Ash (Fraxinus texensis) is an excellent choice.

This tree species is known for its adaptability to a wide range of soil types, including clay and loam, as well as its tolerance for drought conditions.

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In terms of its growth rate, the Texas Ash is considered to be a moderate to fast-growing tree.

With proper care and maintenance, it can grow up to 2-3 feet per year, reaching a height of 30-50 feet within 10-15 years. It typically takes about 20-30 years for the tree to reach maturity.

The Texas Ash is a deciduous tree with a broad, spreading canopy that provides ample shade during the hot Texas summers. It has dark green, glossy, oval-shaped leaves with edges that are serrated.

In the fall, the leaves turn a brilliant shade of yellow or reddish-orange before dropping off the tree.

One of the primary uses of the Texas Ash is as a shade tree in residential and commercial landscapes.

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Its fast growth rate and dense foliage make it an excellent choice for creating a natural barrier or privacy screen.

More so, the wood of the Texas Ash is commonly used for making furniture, flooring, and other wood products.

#2.     Red Maple (Acer rubrum)

If you’re looking for a fast-growing tree that can add vibrant color to your Texas landscape, the Red Maple (Acer rubrum) is an excellent choice.

This tree species is known for its stunning red, orange, or yellow foliage in the fall, as well as its adaptability to a variety of soil types.

In terms of its growth rate, the Red Maple is considered to be a fast-growing tree, particularly during its first few years of growth.

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It can grow up to 3-5 feet per year, reaching a height of 40-70 feet within 20-30 years. It typically takes about 30-50 years for the tree to reach maturity.

The Red Maple is a deciduous tree with a rounded or oval-shaped canopy that provides ample shade during the hot Texas summers.

Its leaves are medium to dark green, with three to five lobes and serrated edges. In the fall, the leaves turn a brilliant shade of red, orange, or yellow before dropping off the tree.

One of the primary uses of the Red Maple is as an ornamental tree in residential and commercial landscapes. Its stunning fall foliage and fast growth rate make it a popular choice for adding color and shade to outdoor spaces.

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The wood of the Red Maple is commonly used for making furniture, flooring, and other wood products.

#3.     Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis)

If you’re looking for a fast-growing tree that can add beautiful color to your Texas landscape, the Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis) is a great choice.

This tree species is known for its stunning pink or purple flowers in the early spring, as well as its adaptability to a variety of soil types.

In terms of its growth rate, the Eastern Redbud is considered to be a moderately fast-growing tree. It can grow up to 1-2 feet per year, reaching a height of 20-30 feet within 10-15 years. It typically takes about 20-30 years for the tree to reach maturity.

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The Eastern Redbud is a deciduous tree with a rounded or vase-shaped canopy that provides filtered shade during the hot Texas summers.

Its leaves are heart-shaped and light green, turning yellow in the fall before dropping off the tree. In the early spring, the tree produces stunning pink or purple flowers that cover the entire tree.

One of the primary uses of the Eastern Redbud is as an ornamental tree in residential and commercial landscapes.

Its stunning flowers and unique foliage make it a popular choice for adding color and interest to outdoor spaces.

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The wood of the Eastern Redbud is commonly used for making furniture, tool handles, and other wood products.

#4.     American Sycamore (Platanus occidentalis)

If you’re looking for fast-growing trees that can add shade and character to your Texas landscape, the American Sycamore (Platanus occidentalis) is a great choices.

The American Sycamore is a large deciduous tree that can grow up to 75-100 feet tall and 50-70 feet wide, making it a great choice for providing ample shade in larger outdoor spaces.

Its bark is white and peeling, revealing a brown or grayish bark underneath. The leaves of the American Sycamore are large and green, turning yellow in the fall before dropping off the tree.

It is considered to be a fast-growing tree, with a growth rate of up to 6 feet per year under ideal conditions. It typically takes about 20-30 years for the tree to reach maturity.

The American Sycamore is commonly used for providing shade in residential and commercial landscapes, as well as for erosion control along rivers and streams.

#5.     American Elm (Ulmus americana)

The American Elm, on the other hand, is a medium to large-sized deciduous tree that can grow up to 60-80 feet tall and 40-60 feet wide.

It has a vase-shaped canopy and a distinctive gray bark. The leaves of the American Elm are oval-shaped and serrated, turning yellow in the fall before dropping off the tree.

It is also considered to be a fast-growing tree, with a growth rate of up to 3-6 feet per year. It typically takes about 30-40 years for the tree to reach maturity.

The American Elm is commonly used for providing shade in residential and commercial landscapes, as well as for its beautiful shape and foliage.

#6.     Cherry Laurel Tree (Prunus caroliniana)

This tree species is known for its lush, dark green foliage and fragrant white flowers that bloom in the spring.

The Cherry Laurel Tree can grow up to 25-30 feet tall and 15-20 feet wide, with a pyramidal or oval shape. It has glossy, dark green leaves that are about 2-6 inches long and 1-2 inches wide.

The tree produces fragrant white flowers in the spring that attract pollinators, followed by small black berries that are loved by birds.

It is considered to be a fast-growing tree, with a growth rate of up to 2-3 feet per year. It typically takes about 10-15 years for the tree to reach maturity.

The Cherry Laurel Tree is commonly used for creating privacy hedges or as a standalone tree in residential and commercial landscapes.

Its dense foliage and evergreen nature make it a great choice for blocking out unwanted views and providing year-round greenery.

The wood of the Cherry Laurel Tree is commonly used for making furniture, cabinetry, and other wood products.

#7.     Flowering Dogwood Tree (Cornus florida)

The Flowering Dogwood Tree is a small deciduous tree that can grow up to 20-30 feet tall and 25-30 feet wide.

It has a low branching habit, with a wide canopy of branches that are covered in pink or white flowers in the spring. The leaves of the Flowering Dogwood are green, turning red or purple in the fall before dropping off the tree.

It is considered to be a slow to moderate-growing tree, with a growth rate of up to 1-2 feet per year. It typically takes about 20-30 years for the tree to reach maturity.

The Flowering Dogwood Tree is commonly used for ornamental purposes in residential and commercial landscapes, as well as for its showy flowers.

#8.     Common Hackberry (Celtis occidentalis)

The Common Hackberry, on the other hand, is a large deciduous tree that can grow up to 40-60 feet tall and 50-70 feet wide.

It has a broad, round crown and a distinctive grayish-brown bark that is rough and corky. The leaves of the Common Hackberry are dark green and slightly serrated, turning yellow in the fall before dropping off the tree.

It is considered to be a fast-growing tree, with a growth rate of up to 3-4 feet per year. It typically takes about 20-30 years for the tree to reach maturity.

The Common Hackberry is commonly used for its shade and ornamental value in residential and commercial landscapes, as well as for its wood, which is used for making furniture, tool handles, and other wood products.

#9.     Tuliptree (Liriodendron tulipifera)

The Tuliptree, also known as the Yellow Poplar or Tulip Poplar, is a large deciduous tree that can grow up to 80-100 feet tall and 40-50 feet wide.

It has a straight trunk with a narrow crown, and its leaves are four-lobed and resemble tulip flowers.

The Tuliptree produces large, showy flowers that are yellow-green in color with orange markings at the base, and it has a fast growth rate of up to 3-4 feet per year. It typically takes about 20-30 years for the tree to reach maturity.

The Tuliptree is commonly used for its shade and ornamental value in residential and commercial landscapes, as well as for its wood, which is used for making furniture, cabinetry, and other wood products.

#10.   Desert Willow (Chilopsis linearis)

The Desert Willow, on the other hand, is a small deciduous tree or large shrub that can grow up to 20-30 feet tall and 15-20 feet wide.

It has a twisted, gnarled trunk with a wide, spreading crown, and its leaves are long and narrow with a grayish-green color.

The Desert Willow produces large, showy flowers that are pink or purple in color with a trumpet-like shape, and it has a moderate to fast growth rate of up to 2-3 feet per year. It typically takes about 5-7 years for the tree to reach maturity.

The Desert Willow is commonly used for its ornamental value in residential and commercial landscapes, as well as for erosion control and as a windbreak.

#11.   Water Oak (Quercus nigra)

If you’re looking for a fast-growing tree that is native to Texas, the Water Oak (Quercus nigra) may be just what you need.

The Water Oak is a medium-sized deciduous tree that can grow up to 50-60 feet tall and 30-40 feet wide. It has a rounded, spreading crown with thick, dark green leaves that are shaped like an elongated ellipse.

The bark of the Water Oak is smooth and gray when young, but it becomes rough and furrowed with age. The Water Oak has a moderate to fast growth rate, typically growing up to 2-3 feet per year, and it can reach maturity in as little as 10-15 years.

The Water Oak is a popular tree for use in landscaping due to its attractive shape and shade-providing abilities.

It is also commonly used in the production of wood products, such as furniture, cabinets, and flooring. The tree’s wood is strong, durable, and resistant to decay, making it a popular choice for outdoor use.

#12.   Leyland Cypress (Cupressus × leylandii)

If you’re looking for fast-growing trees that are well-suited to the climate and conditions of Texas, you might want to consider the Leyland Cypress (Cupressus × leylandii).

The Leyland Cypress is an evergreen tree that can grow up to 60-70 feet tall and 15-25 feet wide. It has a conical shape and features dense, blue-green foliage that stays green year-round.

The tree has a fast growth rate, growing up to 3-4 feet per year, and it can reach maturity in as little as 10-20 years.

The Leyland Cypress is often used as a privacy screen or windbreak due to its tall, dense form.

#13.   River Birch (Betula nigra)

The River Birch is a deciduous tree that can grow up to 40-70 feet tall and 40-60 feet wide. It has a pyramidal shape when young, but it becomes more rounded with age.

The tree features distinctive, peeling bark that ranges in color from reddish-brown to pinkish-white. The River Birch has a moderate to fast growth rate, growing up to 2-3 feet per year, and it can reach maturity in 20-30 years.

The tree is often used in landscaping due to its attractive bark and tolerance for wet soil conditions.

#14.   Italian Cypress (Cupressus sempervirens)

The Italian Cypress is an evergreen tree that can grow up to 40-60 feet tall and 4-5 feet wide. It has a narrow, columnar shape and features dense, dark green foliage that stays green year-round.

The tree has a fast growth rate, growing up to 2-3 feet per year, and it can reach maturity in as little as 10-20 years.

The Italian Cypress is often used in formal landscapes, as a windbreak, or as a screen due to its tall, narrow form.

#15.   Shumard Oak (Quercus shumardii)

The Shumard Oak is a deciduous tree that can grow up to 60-80 feet tall and 40-50 feet wide. It has a broad, spreading form and features dark green foliage that turns reddish-bronze in the fall.

The tree has a moderate growth rate, growing up to 1-2 feet per year, and it can reach maturity in 20-30 years.

The Shumard Oak is often used as a shade tree, as well as for its ornamental value and its ability to attract wildlife.

Benefits of Fast-Growing Trees in Texas

There are many benefits to planting fast-growing trees in Texas. Here are some of the main advantages of planting fast growing trees in Texas.

1. Quick Shade: Texas summers can be hot and unforgiving, and fast-growing trees can provide much-needed shade to help keep you and your property cool. By planting a fast-growing tree, you can create shade in your yard or around your home within just a few years.
2. Improved Air Quality: Trees are natural air purifiers, absorbing pollutants and carbon dioxide from the air and releasing oxygen. Planting fast-growing trees can help to improve the air quality in your area and reduce the effects of pollution.
3. Aesthetic Appeal: Fast-growing trees can quickly enhance the appearance of your property and add value to your home. They can also provide privacy and noise reduction, making your outdoor space more enjoyable.
4. Environmental Benefits: Trees help to prevent soil erosion, provide habitat for wildlife, and reduce stormwater runoff. By planting fast-growing trees, you can help to protect the environment and improve the overall health of your community.

Challenges of Planting Fast Growing Trees in Texas

While there are many benefits to planting fast-growing trees in Texas, there are also some challenges to consider. Here are a few of the major challenges of planting fast growing trees in Texas.

1. Soil Conditions: Texas has a variety of soil types, many of which are not well-suited to tree growth. Before planting a fast-growing tree, it’s important to ensure that your soil is fertile, well-draining, and has the proper pH levels.
2. Water Requirements: Many fast-growing trees require a lot of water, particularly during their first few years of growth. Texas is prone to drought conditions, which can make it challenging to provide the necessary water to young trees.
3. Climate: Texas has a hot and humid climate, which can be stressful for many types of trees. Some fast-growing trees may not be well-suited to the Texas climate and may struggle to survive.
4. Pests and Diseases: Texas is home to a variety of pests and diseases that can damage or kill trees. It’s important to choose a fast-growing tree that is resistant to common pests and diseases and to take preventative measures to protect your trees.

Factors to consider when Planting Fast Growing Trees in Texas

When planting fast-growing trees in Texas, it is important to consider various factors to ensure they thrive and provide the desired benefits. Some of the factors to consider include:

1. Climate and soil conditions: Texas has diverse climatic and soil conditions, and it is essential to choose fast-growing trees that can tolerate these conditions. For instance, trees that can withstand high temperatures and drought are ideal for regions with hot and dry climates.
2. Sunlight and shade: Trees require adequate sunlight to grow and develop properly. Before planting fast-growing trees, it is essential to consider the amount of sunlight or shade in the planting location.
3. Available space: Different fast-growing trees have different sizes, and it is important to consider the available space before planting them. Trees with aggressive root systems should not be planted near structures, septic systems, or utility lines.
4. Purpose: The reason for planting fast-growing trees should also be considered. For example, trees for shade may need to be planted closer to the house or in areas where they can provide shade, while trees for privacy may need to be planted farther away from the house.

Importance of Planting Fast Growing Trees in Texas

Fast-growing trees provide numerous benefits to Texas homeowners and communities, including:

1. Quick shade: Texas has hot and dry summers, and fast-growing trees can provide quick shade, reducing the need for air conditioning and saving energy costs.
2. Aesthetics: Fast-growing trees can enhance the visual appeal of residential and commercial properties, making them more attractive to potential buyers or tenants.
3. Erosion control: Trees play a crucial role in preventing soil erosion by holding the soil together and preventing runoff.
4. Air quality: Trees improve air quality by absorbing pollutants, such as carbon dioxide, and producing oxygen.
5. Habitat for wildlife: Trees provide habitat for wildlife, including birds and small mammals, and contribute to biodiversity.

Best Practices of Planting Fast Growing Trees in Texas

To ensure that fast-growing trees in Texas thrive and provide the desired benefits, the following best practices should be observed:

1. Select the appropriate tree species for the location based on the factors mentioned above.
2. Plant trees at the appropriate time of year when conditions are optimal for growth. In Texas, fall and winter are the best times to plant trees.
3. Dig the planting hole twice as wide as the root ball and no deeper than the root ball.
4. Water the tree regularly during the first year after planting to ensure that the root system becomes established.
5. Use mulch to help retain moisture and suppress weed growth.
6. Prune the tree to remove damaged or diseased branches, promote healthy growth, and maintain the desired shape.
7. Consult a certified arborist if you have any questions or concerns about planting and caring for fast-growing trees.

Is Fertilizer Important for Fast Growing Tree?

Fertilizers are important for the growth and development of fast-growing trees in Texas. Fast-growing trees have a high nutrient requirement, and their rapid growth rate means that they use up nutrients quickly.

Soil in Texas is generally low in essential nutrients required for tree growth, which makes it necessary to add fertilizer to support tree growth.

Fertilizers provide the essential nutrients required by fast-growing trees in Texas, including nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.

These nutrients help to promote healthy root growth, increase the growth rate of the tree, improve the tree’s resistance to disease, and enhance the tree’s overall health and vigor.

However, it is important to use the right type and amount of fertilizer for fast-growing trees. Overuse of fertilizers can cause damage to the tree, reduce soil fertility, and lead to environmental pollution.

Is fast Growing Trees Profitable?

Fast-growing trees can be profitable in Texas if planted and managed correctly. These trees can provide a range of economic, environmental, and social benefits.

For instance, fast-growing trees can be grown for timber, which can be sold for use in construction, furniture making, and other industries.

These trees can increase the value of property by providing shade, improving aesthetics, and reducing energy consumption.

Fast-growing trees can also have environmental benefits. They can help to reduce erosion, improve air quality, and provide habitat for wildlife.

Furthermore, they can be used for landscaping and beautification projects, providing aesthetic value to communities and businesses.

To maximize the profitability of fast-growing trees, it is important to choose the right species, plant them in the right location, and manage them properly.

This includes providing appropriate care and maintenance, such as pruning and fertilization, to ensure healthy growth and prevent damage.

Fast-growing trees should be harvested at the right time to ensure maximum profitability and sustainability.

Fast Growing Trees for Privacy in Texas

1. Leyland Cypress (Cupressus × leylandii)
2. Eastern Redcedar (Juniperus virginiana)
3. Wax Myrtle (Myrica cerifera)
4. Arizona Cypress (Cupressus arizonica)
5. Bald Cypress (Taxodium distichum)

Fast Growing Shade Trees for Central Texas

1. Bur Oak (Quercus macrocarpa)
2. Cedar Elm (Ulmus crassifolia)
3. Chinkapin Oak (Quercus muehlenbergii)
4. Chinese Pistache (Pistacia chinensis)
5. Mexican Sycamore (Platanus mexicana)

Fast Growing Trees in Texas Zone 8

1. Live Oak (Quercus virginiana)
2. Bald Cypress (Taxodium distichum)
3. American Holly (Ilex opaca)
4. Southern Magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora)
5. Red Maple (Acer rubrum)

Best Trees to Plant in Texas

1. Live Oak (Quercus virginiana)
2. Bald Cypress (Taxodium distichum)
3. Bur Oak (Quercus macrocarpa)
4. Cedar Elm (Ulmus crassifolia)
5. Redbud (Cercis canadensis)

Best Fruit Trees to Plant in Texas

1. Peach (Prunus persica)
2. Plum (Prunus spp.)
3. Fig (Ficus carica)
4. Pomegranate (Punica granatum)
5. Apple (Malus spp.)

Best Evergreen Trees for North Texas

1. American Holly (Ilex opaca)
2. Southern Magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora)
3. Japanese Yew (Taxus cuspidata)
4. Arizona Cypress (Cupressus arizonica)
5. Wax Myrtle (Myrica cerifera)

Good Trees for Small Yards in Texas

1. Crape Myrtle (Lagerstroemia spp.)
2. Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum)
3. Dogwood (Cornus florida)
4. Redbud (Cercis canadensis)
5. Chinese Pistache (Pistacia chinensis)

Fast Growing Trees for Dallas TX

1. Chinese Pistache (Pistacia chinensis)
2. Shumard Oak (Quercus shumardii)
3. Red Maple (Acer rubrum)
4. Lacebark Elm (Ulmus parvifolia)
5. Cedar Elm (Ulmus crassifolia)

Conclusion

Texas is home to a diverse range of fast-growing trees that offer various benefits such as shade, privacy, and aesthetic appeal. These trees can also contribute to the state’s economy through timber production and landscaping services. With proper care and maintenance, these trees can grow rapidly and provide significant benefits for generations to come.