Looking to add some height, shade, and color to your garden in Texas?
Fast-growing trees are the way to go!
Fortunately, there are plenty of native Texas trees that are adapted to the unique conditions of the state and won’t become invasive.
In this article, you’ll learn about 15 trees that grow fast in Texas and their identifying features.
When choosing the best tree for your landscape, it’s important to consider factors such as sun exposure, soil type, mature height, spread, and growing zone.
Not only do trees add value and beauty to your garden, but they also help the environment by reducing carbon dioxide and improving air quality.
So, let’s dive into the top 15 fast-growing trees for your Texas landscape!
Key Takeaways
- Native Texas trees such as Live Oak, Bald Cypress, American Elm, Cherry Laurel, Green Ash, Texas Red Oak, and Sycamores are adapted to unique conditions and won’t become invasive.
- Fast-growing trees such as Texas ash, desert willow, and American elm are suitable for Texas landscapes and grow 2-4 ft. per year, reaching maturity quickly.
- Choosing the best tree involves considering sun exposure, soil type, mature height, spread, and growing zone, which can range from 6 to 9 in USDA growing zones in Texas.
- Fast-growing trees come in a variety of shapes and sizes and are suitable for different landscapes, providing shade, privacy, and aesthetic appeal while helping the environment by reducing carbon dioxide and improving air quality.
1. Live Oak
If you’re looking for a fast-growing tree that’s easy to grow and drought-resistant in Texas, check out the Live Oak!
This native Texas tree can grow 2-2.5 feet yearly and has a lifespan of 60-75 years.
The Live Oak is a great addition to any landscape, providing shade and aesthetic appeal.
One of the benefits of planting Live Oak in your Texas landscape is its ability to withstand harsh conditions, including drought and high temperatures.
Proper care and maintenance can help ensure the health and longevity of your Live Oak tree.
Some tips for caring for Live Oak trees include regular watering, pruning, and fertilizing.
When comparing Live Oak to other fast-growing trees in Texas, it’s important to note that the Live Oak has a longer lifespan and is a native species, making it an important tree to preserve in the Texas landscape.
Incorporating Live Oak trees in your landscaping can add a touch of elegance and natural beauty to your property.
Consider using Live Oak trees as a focal point or as a shade tree for outdoor living spaces.
[Related Post: 5 Types Of White Bark Trees In Texas]
2. Bald Cypress
The Bald Cypress, with its unique ability to thrive in standing water, is a great addition to Texas landscapes.
This tree grows at a moderate pace of 1-2 feet per year and can reach an impressive height of 80-120 feet with a width of 20-30 feet.
It’s known for its stunning red autumn needles that make it stand out during the fall season.
When planting Bald Cypress, it’s important to consider its growing conditions.
This tree prefers full sun to partial shade and moist, acidic soil.
It’s ideal for wetlands and can tolerate flooding for extended periods.
The benefits of planting Bald Cypress include its ability to provide shade and habitat for wildlife, as well as its ornamental value.
Bald Cypress wood is also highly valued for its durability and resistance to decay, making it a popular choice for outdoor construction and furniture.
Overall, the Bald Cypress is a great option for those looking to add both aesthetic value and resilience to their Texas landscape.
[Related Post: 3 Types Of Smooth Bark Trees In Texas]
3. American Elm
Get ready to add a touch of hardiness and beauty to your Texas landscape with the American Elm.
This fast-growing tree is known for its impressive height and spreading canopy, reaching up to 50-60 feet tall and providing ample shade.
The American Elm is also a hardy tree, able to tolerate temperature variations and harsh weather conditions, making it an ideal choice for Texas landscapes.
When it comes to growing conditions, the American Elm prefers full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil.
It’s important to note that these trees are susceptible to Dutch elm disease, so it’s recommended to choose disease-resistant cultivars and implement proper pruning techniques to prevent the spread of the disease.
With its historical significance and ornamental value, the American Elm is a great addition to any landscape design in Texas.
4. Cherry Laurel
You’ll love the versatility of cherry laurel in your Texas landscape.
This shrub or tree with glossy leaves and white flowers can reach up to 35-40 feet tall and is drought-resistant while also tolerating shade.
Cherry laurel is an evergreen that can be utilized in a variety of ways, making it an ideal addition to any garden.
Here are some benefits of cherry laurel for landscaping:
- Cherry laurel can be used as a privacy hedge to screen unsightly views or to create a secluded area in your garden.
- Cherry laurel is a low-maintenance plant that can also be grown in containers, making it an excellent choice for balconies or patios.
- Pruning techniques for cherry laurel are simple and easy to follow, allowing you to shape the plant to fit your landscape’s needs.
Compared to other evergreens for landscaping, cherry laurel is an excellent choice due to its adaptability to different growing conditions and its versatility in the garden.
Whether used as a specimen plant, a hedge, or a container plant, cherry laurel is sure to add both aesthetic and functional value to your landscape.
5. Green Ash
Looking for a hardy and ornamental addition to your landscape that can provide shade and privacy?
Check out green ash, a native North American tree that adds dense foliage and aesthetic value to gardens.
This fast-growing tree can add 2-4 feet to its height each year, reaching up to 60-70 feet tall in just 20-25 years.
Green ash is adaptable to a range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sand, but prefers well-drained soil. It also tolerates a variety of sun exposures, from full sun to partial shade.
Green ash is known for its disease resistance, making it a low-maintenance addition to your landscape.
However, it’s important to prune regularly to maintain its shape and remove any dead or damaged branches.
Pest control may also be necessary to protect against pests such as the emerald ash borer, which is an invasive species from Asia.
Overall, green ash is a great choice for a fast-growing and hardy tree that will provide both beauty and function to your landscape.
6. Red Maple
Now that you’ve learned about the Green Ash, let’s talk about another fast-growing tree option for Texas: the Red Maple.
Growing conditions for the Red Maple are versatile, as it can adapt to different soil types and sun exposures.
It can grow up to 3-5 feet per year and reaches a mature height of 40-60 feet.
With its vibrant red and orange fall color, it adds a pop of color to any landscape.
Pruning tips for the Red Maple include removing any dead or diseased branches, as well as any crossing or rubbing branches.
It’s important to prune in late winter or early spring before new growth appears.
The Red Maple is also known for its disease resistance, making it a low-maintenance option for homeowners.
Its versatility in landscaping ideas makes it a great option for shade, privacy, or as a specimen tree.
Overall, the Red Maple is a great addition to any Texas landscape.
7. Desert Willow
If you’re searching for a tree that adds unique beauty to your landscape, consider the Desert Willow.
This fast-growing tree is native to the southwestern United States, including Texas, and is well-suited to hot and dry growing conditions.
Here are three reasons why the Desert Willow may be the perfect addition to your Texas garden:
- Unique Features: The Desert Willow has stunning trumpet-shaped flowers that bloom in shades of pink, purple, and white from late spring to early fall. The leaves are narrow and willow-like, adding a graceful touch to the tree’s overall appearance. The tree also has a smooth, light-gray bark that adds interest to the landscape.
- Growing Conditions: The Desert Willow thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, making it perfect for Texas gardens. It requires little water once established and is drought-tolerant. Pruning techniques can be used to shape the tree or remove dead or damaged branches. Pest management is typically not an issue, as the Desert Willow is relatively disease-resistant.
- Landscaping Ideas: The Desert Willow is a versatile tree that can be used in a variety of landscaping settings. It can be planted as a specimen tree or in groupings to create a natural screen or hedge. Its unique features also make it a great focal point in a garden or as a backdrop for other plants.
Overall, the Desert Willow is a beautiful and low-maintenance tree that can add unique beauty to your Texas garden.
8. Common Hackberry
The Common Hackberry, with its rough, warty bark and small, berry-like fruit, can add a rustic charm to any Texas landscape.
This fast-growing tree typically grows 2-3 feet per year, reaching heights of 40-60 feet tall and spreading 30-50 feet wide.
It is an excellent choice for those who want to add shade, privacy, and aesthetic appeal to their gardens.
One of the benefits of planting Common Hackberry is its ability to thrive in a wide range of soil types.
It can tolerate dry, rocky soils as well as moist, well-drained soils.
However, it prefers slightly acidic soils and full sun to partial shade.
When it comes to pests and diseases, the Common Hackberry is relatively resistant.
However, it can be affected by aphids, scale insects, and powdery mildew.
Compared to other fast-growing trees in Texas, such as the Bald Cypress and the Green Ash, the Common Hackberry is hardier and more drought-resistant.
It is also a good alternative to non-native species, such as the Chinese Tallow and the Mimosa, which can become invasive.
Common uses of Common Hackberry in landscaping include as a shade tree, a windbreak, or a screen. Its small, berry-like fruit is also a source of food for birds and other wildlife.
9. Shumard Oak
Planting a Shumard Oak in your Texas landscape can add both beauty and value to your property, as this majestic tree is known for its attractive foliage, sturdy trunk, and impressive size.
Here are some benefits, care tips, and planting guide for this fast-growing tree:
Benefits:
- Provides ample shade and privacy for your property
- Tolerates heat and drought well
- Adds aesthetic appeal to any landscape with its vibrant red fall color
Care tips:
- Plant in well-draining soil with plenty of sunlight
- Water regularly during the first year of growth, then as needed
- Prune dead or damaged branches in late winter or early spring
- Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer in the spring
Planting guide:
- Choose a planting location with plenty of sunlight and well-draining soil.
- Dig a hole that’s twice as wide and deep as the root ball.
- Mix the soil with compost or other organic matter to improve drainage and fertility.
- Place the tree in the hole and backfill with soil, gently packing it down.
- Water thoroughly and add a layer of mulch around the base of the tree.
Disease prevention:
- Ensure proper drainage to prevent root rot
- Avoid overwatering, which can lead to fungal diseases
- Monitor for signs of oak wilt, a deadly disease that affects oak trees in Texas
- Prune during the dormant season to prevent the spread of disease.
10. Water Oak
To add a touch of elegance to your Texas landscape, consider the water oak, a tree that thrives in wet areas and provides ample shade and aesthetic appeal.
This fast-growing species can reach up to 80 feet in height and 50 feet in width, making it an ideal choice for large properties.
The water oak produces glossy, dark-green leaves that turn reddish-brown in the fall, and its acorns attract wildlife such as squirrels and deer.
One of the benefits of planting water oak is its adaptability to different soil types, including clay, loam, and sand.
However, it requires regular watering, especially during its first few years of growth, to establish a strong root system.
To care for your water oak, prune it during its dormant season to remove dead or diseased branches and maintain its shape.
When selecting a location for your water oak, consider its mature size and ensure it has enough space to grow without interfering with other structures.
Compared to other fast-growing trees, such as the bald cypress and American sycamore, the water oak is less prone to diseases and pests, making it a low-maintenance option for your landscape.
11. Eastern Redbud
If you’re looking for another fast-growing tree to add to your Texas landscape, consider the Eastern Redbud.
This tree is a great choice for those who want a burst of color in their yard, as it produces stunning pinkish-purple blossoms in the early spring before the leaves emerge.
The Eastern Redbud is native to eastern and central North America and is well-suited to the growing conditions in Texas.
To ensure your Eastern Redbud thrives, make sure to plant it in well-draining soil and in an area with full or partial sun exposure.
This tree is relatively low maintenance and only requires occasional pruning to remove damaged or diseased branches.
However, be sure to keep an eye out for pests and diseases such as borers and cankers, which can be detrimental to the tree’s health.
Propagation methods for the Eastern Redbud include seed germination and hardwood cuttings.
Consider these landscaping ideas when incorporating the Eastern Redbud into your yard:
- Plant it as a focal point in your garden, surrounded by lower-growing plants that complement its stunning spring blooms.
- Use it as a shade tree near a patio or seating area to provide a pop of color and natural shade.
- Plant multiple Eastern Redbuds in a row to create a natural hedge or screen.
Overall, the Eastern Redbud is a fast-growing and beautiful tree that can enhance any Texas landscape. With proper care and attention, it can provide years of enjoyment and aesthetic appeal.
12. River Birch
The River Birch, with its peeling bark and diamond-shaped leaves, creates a natural and rustic aesthetic in any Texas landscape.
This fast-growing tree is low maintenance and ideal for wet soils, making it a great option for those living in flood-prone areas.
When planting, make sure to choose a spot with full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil.
River Birch trees can grow up to 70 feet tall, but can also be pruned to fit smaller spaces.
To maintain the health and beauty of your River Birch, regular pruning is important.
Remove any dead or diseased branches and thin out the canopy to promote air circulation.
Watch out for pests such as bronze birch borers and aphids and take preventative measures such as using insecticides or introducing natural predators.
Additionally, proper watering and fertilization can help prevent diseases such as leaf spot.
Incorporate River Birch trees into your landscaping by planting them along water features or near other trees for a natural and diverse look.
13. Callery Pear
You’ll love the versatility of the Callery Pear, a fast-growing ornamental tree with showy white spring flowers that can tolerate Texas’s heat.
With a growth rate of 2-4 feet per year, the Callery Pear can quickly reach a height of 30-50 feet, making it an excellent addition to any landscape.
Here are some planting tips and maintenance requirements to ensure your Callery Pear thrives:
- Plant your Callery Pear in well-draining soil and in an area that receives full sun to partial shade.
- Water your tree regularly during the first year of growth to establish a healthy root system.
- Apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring to promote healthy growth.
- Prune your tree in late winter or early spring to maintain its shape and remove any dead or damaged branches.
- The Callery Pear is resistant to most pests and diseases, making it a low-maintenance tree for your landscape.
In addition to its fast growth rate and low maintenance requirements, the Callery Pear is also known for its disease resistance.
This tree can resist fire blight, which is a bacterial disease that can affect other pear varieties.
With its showy white spring flowers and ability to tolerate Texas’s heat, the Callery Pear is an excellent choice for adding beauty and shade to your landscape.
14. American Sycamore
Native to Texas and adaptable to extreme weather conditions, the American Sycamore is a fast-growing tree that can reach up to 70-100 feet tall with a spreading canopy of bright green leaves.
Its unique bark pattern resembles camouflage and adds a distinctive touch to any landscape.
This tree is ideal for those who want to add shade and aesthetic appeal to their garden quickly.
To ensure the American Sycamore tree thrives, it needs to be planted in moist, well-draining soil and in an area with full sun exposure.
Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring to promote healthy growth.
Disease prevention is crucial for this tree, and the use of fungicides can help prevent leaf spot and anthracnose.
Consider incorporating this fast-growing tree in your landscaping ideas, as it can serve as a specimen tree or as a shade tree for your garden or backyard.
When planting, make sure to give it enough space to grow and flourish.
15. Flowering Dogwood Tree
Looking for a way to add some four-season interest to your garden?
Consider planting a flowering dogwood tree in your landscape.
This fast-growing tree is an excellent choice for Texas, as it adds both beauty and functionality to your outdoor space.
Flowering dogwoods have large white flower-like bracts that bloom in early spring, followed by glossy green leaves that turn red in the fall.
They also have interesting bark that adds texture to your garden in the winter months.
When planting a flowering dogwood tree, it’s important to choose a location that receives partial shade and well-draining soil.
They prefer acidic soil, so it’s a good idea to amend the soil with peat moss or other organic matter before planting.
Seasonal care includes regular watering, especially during hot and dry periods.
Pruning techniques should be used sparingly, as flowering dogwoods are susceptible to disease and damage from improper pruning.
Disease prevention includes regular inspections for pests and fungal infections, as well as proper watering and fertilization.
With proper care, a flowering dogwood tree can provide beauty and interest to your garden for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some common pests that can affect fast-growing trees in Texas?
Identifying pests is crucial for fast-growing trees in Texas. Prevention measures include proper watering, pruning, and fertilization.
Signs of infestation include wilting, discoloration, and holes in leaves.
Treatment options range from insecticides to natural remedies like neem oil and beneficial insects.
How do you properly prune and maintain fast-growing trees in Texas to ensure their health and longevity?
To properly prune and maintain fast-growing trees in Texas, use pruning techniques such as crown thinning and reduction to promote healthy growth.
Apply growth regulators to control size and shape, prepare soil properly, follow watering schedules, and use fertilization methods to promote growth and health.
Are there any fast-growing trees that are particularly resistant to drought and heat in Texas?
Looking for drought resistant options for shade providers and fast growing privacy screens in your Texas landscaping ideas?
Consider low maintenance trees like the Texas ash, desert willow, and American elm, which are particularly resistant to drought and heat.
What are some common diseases that can affect fast-growing trees in Texas, and how can they be prevented or treated?
To prevent fungal infections and insect infestations in fast-growing trees in Texas, proper tree care is essential. Regular pruning, watering, and fertilization can help.
Also, choosing disease-resistant varieties can reduce the risk of diseases.
How do you choose the right type of fast-growing tree for your specific landscape and growing conditions in Texas?
To choose the right fast-growing tree for your Texas landscape, consider factors affecting growth like soil requirements, irrigation techniques, and sunlight and shade preferences.
Research popular species and consult with experts for guidance.
