Trees are incredibly important, but growing them from scratch is usually anything but fast—it’s usually decades or even centuries.
That being said, there are a few that will grow in a bit more of a timely manner. If you’re after quick results in the garden—whether it’s privacy, shade, or just something green that doesn’t take a decade to get going—fast-growing trees are a solid choice. These ones don’t hang about, and with the right spot and care, they’ll transform your garden in no time.
Silver birch (Betula pendula)
Silver birch is a classic fast-grower that adds elegance and movement to your garden. Its delicate leaves shimmer in the breeze, and its pale bark brightens up dull corners, even in winter. You’ll often see decent height gained within just a few years. It’s also a wildlife magnet—birds love the seeds, and insects are drawn to its bark. Birch can cope with a range of soils, including clay, and it won’t crowd everything else out, making it ideal for small to medium-sized gardens.
Eucalyptus gunnii (Cider gum)
With its blue-grey leaves and striking scent, eucalyptus is a statement tree that grows fast—sometimes too fast if you don’t keep it in check. It’s not fussy about soil and shoots up quickly, especially in sunnier spots. If you want height in a hurry or are after something a bit more dramatic, this is your pick. Just be ready to prune regularly or it’ll dominate the space. In pots or smaller gardens, coppicing can help keep it manageable and lush.
Willow (Salix alba)
Willows love water, so they’re perfect for wetter areas where other trees might struggle. They grow at a rapid pace and bring a soft, weeping silhouette to a space, especially varieties like weeping willow. They’re also useful for wildlife and soil health, with extensive root systems that help reduce erosion. But they do need space—their roots can be invasive, so don’t plant them too close to structures or drains.
Alder (Alnus glutinosa)
Native and tough, alder grows fast and works wonders in poor or damp soils. It even improves the ground around it by fixing nitrogen, which benefits nearby plants over time. Its catkins in early spring are a bonus, and it provides brilliant support for local wildlife. If you want something low-fuss and generous with growth, alder is a solid option.
Cherry plum (Prunus cerasifera)
This is one of those trees that’s both quick-growing and beautiful. It bursts into blossom in early spring, often before anything else has woken up, and then produces small fruits by autumn. It’s a good choice for urban gardens, too, as it handles pollution better than many others. Whether you want seasonal interest or a bit of privacy, it’ll get there fast without getting too out of hand.
Leylandii (Cuprocyparis leylandii)
If speed is your top priority, leylandii wins hands down. It’s often used for hedging because it grows tall and dense faster than almost anything else. But it does come with a warning—it needs regular trimming. Left alone, it’ll soar and shade out everything in sight. But when managed well, it’s brilliant for privacy and wind protection. Just be sure to stay on top of it, and don’t plant it too close to neighbours unless they’re fully on board.
Rowan (Sorbus aucuparia)
Also known as mountain ash, rowan is a fast-growing tree that’s incredibly wildlife-friendly. Its bright berries are loved by birds, and its feathery leaves give it a light, airy feel that doesn’t block too much sun. It doesn’t take long to establish and looks great even in smaller gardens. Plus, its seasonal colour—white blossom in spring and bold orange or red berries in autumn—keeps things interesting all year round.
Italian alder (Alnus cordata)
Italian alder is a bit more heat- and drought-tolerant than its native cousin, which makes it a great choice for more exposed or urban gardens. It grows quickly and has glossy leaves that stay green well into autumn. It’s also brilliant for screening without becoming a headache to manage. The roots improve soil, the form stays neat, and the overall look is modern and unfussy. It’s the kind of tree that quietly earns its spot.
Poplar (Populus alder)
Poplars are absolute rockets when it comes to growth. They’re often used in windbreaks or large rural gardens where fast vertical coverage is needed. Some varieties can grow over six feet a year. That said, they’re not ideal for tiny plots—their roots can spread wide, and they need room to thrive. However, if you’ve got the space, few trees will deliver height as quickly.
Himalayan birch (Betula utilis var. jacquemontii)
This variety of birch has dazzling white bark and grows at a decent pace, bringing structure and contrast to any border. It’s perfect if you want something with presence that doesn’t turn into a beast. It’s happy in most soils and has a light canopy that lets sun through, making it friendly to underplanting. It’s a favourite in modern and cottage-style gardens alike for good reason.
Cherry (Prunus avium)
Wild cherry trees grow surprisingly fast and reward you with blossom in spring and glowing leaves in autumn. They suit both traditional and contemporary spaces and bring a romantic look without years of waiting. They’re also great for bees and other pollinators, and the fruit (if you beat the birds to it) is a bonus. Just be sure you’ve got the room—they can grow taller than you think.
Hazel (Corylus avellana)
Hazel is a brilliant native tree that grows fast and lends itself to coppicing if you want to keep it manageable. Its catkins appear in early spring, and its leafy canopy fills out quickly through summer. It’s ideal for wildlife-friendly gardens, producing nuts that squirrels love and offering shelter for birds. You can also use the flexible branches for rustic supports or fencing if you’re into sustainable gardening.