Shade trees are a crucial part of any home. Not only do they provide much-needed shade in the hot summer months, but they can also add to the curb appeal of your home.
Looking for a little relief from the summer heat? A shady spot in the yard can make all the difference. But if you’re looking for fast results, not all trees are created equal. Some take decades to reach their full size, while others can provide shade in just a few years. If you’re looking to add some much-needed shade to your property, here are 12 fast-growing shade trees to consider.
From stately oaks to towering pines, there’s a fast-growing shade tree to suit every landscape. And while they may vary in size and appearance, they all have one thing in common: they can provide welcome relief from the harsh summer sun. So if you’re looking for a little piece of paradise, consider planting one of these12 fast-growing shade trees. Your Summer self will thank you!
12 Best Fast-Growing Varieties Trees for Shade
When it comes to finding the best trees for shade, there are many factors to consider.
First, you need to decide what type of tree you want. Do you want a deciduous tree that will provide shade in the summer but allow sunlight through in the winter? Or do you prefer an evergreen tree that will block out sunlight year-round? Once you’ve decided on the type of tree, you need to consider the size.
Fast-growing varieties may reach their full height quickly, but they may also have shallower roots that can make them susceptible to wind damage. Finally, you’ll need to choose a tree that is suitable for your climate.
Shade-loving trees such as maples and oaks will do well in cooler climates, while heat-tolerant trees like palms and cypresses are better suited for warm weather. With so many factors to consider, it’s important to do your research before choosing a tree for your garden.
1. Sun Valley Maple (Acer rubrum ‘Red Maple Sun Valley’)
The Sun Valley Maple is a deciduous tree that is native to parts of the United States. It is known for its fast growth rate, with height increases of more than 24″ per year. The tree has an upright oval habit of growth and features red flowers in early spring and brilliant red foliage in fall.
The Sun Valley Maple grows more slowly than other trees of its kind and matures between 20 and 35 feet tall with a spread of 15-25 feet. It is an excellent tree for use as an accent in the landscape and does well in a variety of soil types. The Sun Valley Maple is also drought tolerant once established.
2. Tuliptree (Liriodendron tulipifera)
The tuliptree is a fast-growing tree that can reach heights of over 40 feet in just 15 to 20 years. Though it gets its name from its tulip-shaped leaves, the tuliptree does not begin to flower until it reaches maturity. The flowers are yellow-green and have a distinctively fruity fragrance.
Tuliptrees are native to eastern North America, where they are often used as shade trees or specimen plants in gardens. Though they are relatively short-lived, tuliptrees are prized for their rapid growth and striking Appearance. With proper care, a tuliptree can provide many years of enjoyment.
3. American Sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua)
The Liquidambar styraciflua is a deciduous tree that is native to the eastern United States. It is commonly known as the American sweetgum or sweetgum tree.
The tree gets its name from the fact that it produces a sticky, gummy resin called “liquid amber” or “styrax.” The tree has a moderate to rapid growth rate, putting on 1 to 4 feet of height each year for the first 10 years, and then 12 to 15 inches per year thereafter. The foliage is palmate, like a maple leaf, but more deeply lobed and star-shaped.
The leaves are dark green in summer and turn yellow, orange, or red in fall. The tree produces globular fruits that are 3 to 5 cm in diameter and contain numerous small seeds.
The Liquidambar styraciflua is often used as an ornamental tree in landscaping because of its beautiful fall foliage. It is also used in forestry for its wood, which is hard and durable.
4. Dawn Redwood (Salix babylonica)
Dawn Redwood is a fast-growing tree that can reach heights of more than 24″ per year. It is a popular choice for shade trees due to its rapid growth rate, and it is also one of the most drought-resistant trees.
Dawn Redwoods are native to China, where they were once thought to be extinct. However, a small grove of these trees was discovered in the early twentieth century, and Dawn Redwoods have since been reintroduced to their natural habitat. The Weeping Willow is another fast-growing tree that is popular for its shade and its ability to grow in almost any type of soil.
These trees get their name from their long, pendulous branches, which often droop down to the ground. Weeping Willows are also one of the most tolerant trees when it comes to flooding or having their roots submerged in water.
5. River Birch (Betula nigra)
River birch trees are a common sight along streams and rivers in the eastern United States. These deciduous trees can grow to be 60-80 feet tall and 40 feet wide, with trunks 2 feet in diameter. River birches typically live for 50-75 years and have a symmetrical, upright growth habit.
They are well suited for use as shade trees, as they prefer locations on the east or north side of a home where they will receive afternoon shade. River birches are known for their tolerance of flooding and wet soils, making them an excellent choice for use in rain gardens or other low-lying areas.
In addition to their environmental benefits, river birches also provide food and shelter for a variety of wildlife, making them an important part of the ecosystem.
6. Pin Oak (Quercus palustris)
The Pin Oak is a popular choice for landscaping because of its rapid growth rate. It can grow more than 24″ per year and can reach a height of 100′. It is part of the Fagaceae family and its Latin name, Quercus palustris, comes from the environment in which it was first described and named by botanist Otto von Munchhausen in 1770.
Pin oaks typically have a lifespan of 150 to 200 years and are characterized by their pyramid-shaped crowns and dark green leaves. The leaves are lobed and usually have seven to nine points. The tree gets its common name from the fact that the tips of its branches tend to grow straight up, like pins.
Pin oaks are found across North America, from Maine to Minnesota in the east and from Oklahoma to Texas in the west. They prefer moist, well-drained soils and full sun but can also tolerate partial shade. Pin oaks are commonly used as ornamental trees or street trees because of their stately appearance and ability to withstand urban conditions.
They are also a popular choice for wildlife gardens because of their acorns, which are food for many types of animals, including squirrels, mice, deer, and birds.
7. Northern Red Oak (Quercus rubra)
The Northern Red Oak is a hardy and adaptable tree that has many features that make it attractive to gardeners. One of its most distinctive features is its deeply lobed leaves, which have sharp, bristly tips.
The acorns of the red oak are also noteworthy – they are large and round, with a scaly cap that covers less than a quarter of the acorn. The bark of the red oak is smooth and dark gray when the tree is young, but it develops deep ridges as the tree gets older.
Northern Red Oaks are among the best trees for low-maintenance gardens – they are long-lived and tolerant of many different soil types. They do especially well in well-drained soils, but they can also tolerate moist, neutral, and acidic soils. If you are looking for a hardy and adaptable tree for your garden, the Northern Red Oak is an excellent choice.
8. Northern Catalpa (Catalpa speciosa)
Northern catalpa (Catalpa speciosa) is a large, fast-growing tree that is native to the eastern United States. It gets its common name from its hardiness, which allows it to thrive in a variety of soil conditions. Northern catalpa can reach a height of 60 feet or more, making it one of the taller trees in its range.
Additionally, this tree has large, showy flowers that bloom in late spring or early summer. Hardy catalpa is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a fast-growing shade tree that is also visually interesting and resilient.
The northern catalpa tree is a medium to a large deciduous tree that is native to the eastern United States. It is easily distinguished by its large, heart-shaped leaves and long, bean-like pods.
The northern catalpa is a popular ornamental tree, and its showy flowers make it a valuable source of nectar for bees and other pollinators. In addition to its decorative value, the northern catalpa is also known for its wood, which is strong and durable yet light in weight.
The tree has been used for everything from fence posts and railroad ties to musical instruments and furniture. Thanks to its many uses, the northern catalpa is an important species in both the horticultural and forestry industries.
9. Hackberry (Celtis occidentalis)
Celtis occidentalis, commonly known as the common hackberry, is a large deciduous tree native to North America. It is also known as the nettle tree, sugarberry, beaver wood, northern hackberry, and American hackberry. Hackberry (Celtis occidentalis) grows at a medium to fast rate, with height increases of anywhere from 13″ to more than 24″ per year.
The tree is characterized by its long, curved leaves and small, round fruit. Hackberry fruit is an important food source for birds, particularly during the winter months when other food sources are scarce.
The wood of the hackberry tree is dense and strong, making it a popular choice for furniture and cabinetry. Hackberry trees are also valuable to wildlife, providing shelter and nesting sites for birds and small mammals.
10. Red Sunset Maple (Acer rubrum ‘Franksred’)
The Red Sunset Maple is a stunning addition to any yard. Growing up to 35 feet wide and 50 feet tall, this beautiful tree provides ample shade and decoration.
The bright red leaves are a gorgeous contrast to the green of summer and the white of winter, and the tree’s strong roots make it an excellent choice for rain gardens or other areas prone to flooding. Additionally, the Red Sunset Maple is a hardy tree that can live for up to 100 years with proper care.
Whether planted as a specimen in the front yard or as part of a larger landscape, the Red Sunset Maple is sure to add beauty and value to any home.
11. Paper Birch (Betula papyrifera)
The paper birch is a medium to fast-growing tree that is native to North America. It gets its name from the thin, papery bark that peels off in layers.
This type of bark is also very fragile, and the tree is susceptible to damage from wind, ice, and snow. The paper birch has bright green leaves that turn yellow in the fall. The leaves are triangular in shape and have toothed edges.
The paper birch blooms in the spring, with small, dark-yellow flowers that grow in clusters. The fruits of the tree are small, brown nuts that are surrounded by a thin, papery husk.
Paper birches typically grow to be between 40 and 60 feet tall. They prefer full sun and well-drained soil but can tolerate a variety of conditions. Paper birches are often used as ornamental trees or as shade trees. They are also a popular choice for woodworking projects because of their light color and straight grain.
The paper birch (Betula papyrifera) is a medium to a large deciduous tree that is native to North America. This tree gets its common name from the thin, papery bark that peels away from the trunk in layers.
The paper birch is a popular landscaping tree and is often used as a specimen tree or in group plantings. This tree grows best in full sun and prefers moist, well-drained soils. It is relatively tolerant of urban conditions and can even be used as a street tree.
The paper birch has beautiful yellow-orange fall foliage and provides year-round interest. This tree produces small, winged seeds that are enjoyed by birds.
12. Quaking Aspen (Populus tremuloides)
The Quaking Aspen is a fast-growing tree that can reach heights of over 24″ per year. It has small, heart-shaped leaves with fine serrate teeth on the edges.
The Balsam poplar leaves are quite variable across their range but in general, they are egg-shaped (ovate) or more narrowly spear-shaped (lanceolate) with very small teeth along the leaf margin. Both trees are known for their beautiful fall colors.
The Quaking Aspen’s leaves turn a bright golden yellow, while the Balsam poplar’s leaves turn a deep red. These trees are an important part of the ecosystem in many parts of North America, providing habitat for birds and small animals and helping to prevent soil erosion.
Conclusion
The 12 trees listed above are all excellent choices for a home landscape. They are all fast-growing and provide ample shade. The Red Sunset Maple is a beautiful addition to any yard, with bright red leaves that turn yellow in the fall. The Paper Birch is a hardy tree that can live for up to 100 years and is native to North America. The Quaking Aspen is a fast-growing tree that turns a beautiful golden yellow in the fall. Whichever tree you choose, you are sure to add beauty and value to your home.
Trees provide shade, stability, and beauty to any landscape. When choosing a tree for your home, it is important to consider the tree’s growth rate, ultimate height, and fall color. The 12 trees listed above are all excellent choices for a home landscape. With a little research, you can find the perfect tree for your needs.
Fast-Growing Varieties Trees for Shade FAQ
What is the best fast-growing tree for shade?
The best fast-growing tree for shade depends on your needs. If you are looking for a hardy tree that can live for up to 100 years, the Paper Birch is a good choice. If you want a fast-growing tree that turns a beautiful golden yellow in the fall, the Quaking Aspen is a good choice. Whichever tree you choose, you are sure to add beauty and value to your home.
How fast do these trees grow?
The 12 trees listed above all grow at different rates. The Red Sunset Maple grows quickly, reaching heights of 30 feet in just 15 years. The Quaking Aspen is even faster-growing, reaching heights of over 24″ per year.
What are the benefits of planting a fast-growing tree?
The benefits of planting a fast-growing tree depend on the species. Fast-growing trees can provide shade quickly, stabilize slopes and prevent soil erosion, and add beauty to any landscape.
How big do these trees get?
The 12 trees listed above all grow to different sizes. The Red Sunset Maple typically reaches heights of 30 feet, while the Quaking Aspen can grow to be over 60 feet tall. Choose a tree based on the size you need for your landscape.
Do these trees need special care?
No, these trees do not need special care. They are all relatively tolerant of urban conditions and can even be used as street trees. However, it is always a good idea to consult with a local nursery or tree care expert before planting any tree.
What is the best time of year to plant these trees?
The best time of year to plant these trees depends on your location and the species you choose. In general, it is best to plant trees in the spring or fall. Consult with a local nursery or tree care expert for specific planting instructions.
When will these trees provide shade?
The 12 trees listed above all provide shade at different rates. The Red Sunset Maple provides shade within just a few years, while the Quaking Aspen can take up to 15 years to provide full shade. Choose a tree based on how quickly you need shading in your landscape.
What color will the leaves be in the fall?
The leaves of the 12 trees listed above all change color in the fall. The Red Sunset Maple turns a beautiful red, while the Quaking Aspen turns a golden yellow. Choose a tree based on the fall color you prefer.
How long do these trees live?
The 12 trees listed above all have different lifespans. The Paper Birch can live for up to 100 years, while the Quaking Aspen has a lifespan of around 40 years. Choose a tree based on how long you want it to last in your landscape.
Trees provide shade, stability, and beauty to any landscape. When choosing a tree for your home, it is important to consider the tree’s growth rate, ultimate height, and fall color. The 12 trees listed above are all excellent choices for a home landscape. With a little research, you can find the perfect tree for your needs.
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I am a man of simple pleasures. I love spending my time in my yarn, where I cultivates beautiful flowers and fresh vegetables. Of course I takes great pride in his excellent yawn, and I loves to see the joy it brings to others – especially children. I also enjoys taking care of his lawn, and love to watch my dog play with the neighborhood kids on the lawn.
