12 Best Fast-Growing Varieties Trees for Shade

Shade trees are an essential part of every home. Shade trees are not only a great addition to your home’s curb appeal, but also provide shade during the summer heat.

Are you looking for some relief from the summer heat and humidity? It can be a great idea to have a shaded spot in your yard. However, not all trees will provide the same results. Some trees take years to grow full size while others can provide shade within a matter of years. Here are 12 shade trees that can quickly grow to provide shade on your property.

There are many shade trees that can grow quickly, from majestic oaks to tall pines. While they might vary in their size and appearance, one thing is common to all: they provide shade from the scorching summer sun. These 12 shade trees are fast-growing and can be planted to create a little paradise. You’ll be a summer hero!

12 Fastest-Growing Shade Trees

There are many things to take into consideration when choosing the right shade of trees.

You must first decide which type of tree you want. You might want a deciduous tree to provide shade in summer, but let the sun through in winter. Do you prefer an evergreen tree that will block sunlight all year? After you have decided on the type of tree you want, you will need to decide on the size.

Although they can grow quickly, fast-growing varieties are more likely to reach full height sooner than slower-growing ones. However, their roots may be shallower and more susceptible to wind damage. You will need to select a tree that suits your climate.

Shade-loving trees, such as oaks and maples, will thrive in cool climates. Heat-tolerant trees like palms or cypresses will fare better in warm environments. There are many things to take into consideration when choosing trees for your garden.

1. Sun Valley Maple (Acer rubrum ‘Red Maple Sun Valley’)

The Sun Valley Maple, a deciduous deciduous tree, is native to certain parts of the United States. Its rapid growth rate is well-known, with an average height increase of 24 inches per year. It has an upright oval shape and produces red flowers in spring and fall.

Sun Valley Maples grow slower than most other trees and can reach a height of between 20 and 35 feet and a spread of 15-20 feet. This tree is great for accenting a landscape. It can be grown in all soil types. Once established, the Sun Valley Maple can withstand drought.

2. Tuliptree (Liriodendron tulipifera)

The tuliptree can grow to over 40 feet in as little as 15 to 20 years. Although it is named for its tulip-shaped foliage, the tuliptree doesn’t begin flowering until it reaches maturity. The flowers are yellow-green in color and have a distinct fruity scent.

Native to eastern North America are tulip trees. They are used in shade trees and as specimen plants in gardens. Although they live a short time, tulip trees are highly prized for their striking appearance and rapid growth. A tuliptree will provide years of enjoyment if it is taken care of properly.

3. American Sweetgum (Liquidambar Styraciflua).

The Liquidambar Styraciflua, a deciduous tree, is native to the eastern United States. It is also known as the American sweetgum, or sweetgum tree.

It produces sticky, gummy resin known as “liquid amber” (or “styrax”) that gives it its name. The tree grows moderately to quickly, reaching a height of 1 to 4 feet in the first 10 years and 12 to 15 inches each year thereafter. The palmate leaves are similar to a maple leaf but more deeply lobed, and star-shaped.

The leaves turn yellow, orange or red in autumn. In summer, they are dark green. The tree produces globular fruit that measures 3 to 5cm in diameter and many small seeds.

Because of its stunning fall foliage, the Liquidambar staraciflua is often used in landscaping as an ornamental tree. It’s also used in forestry because of its hard and durable wood.

4. Dawn Redwood (Salix Babylonica).

Dawn Redwood can grow to a height of over 24 inches per year. Because of its rapid growth rate, it is a popular choice as a shade tree. It is also drought-resistant.

Dawn Redwoods can be found in China, where they are considered extinct. A small grove of Dawn Redwoods was found in China in the early 20th century. Since then, they have been returned to their natural habitat. Another fast-growing tree is the Weeping Willow. It is known for its shade and ability to grow in any soil.

The long, thick, and often pendulous stems of these trees give their name. They can sometimes droop to the ground. The Weeping Willows are one of the most resilient trees to flooding and having their roots submerged by water.

5. River Birch (Betula Nigria)

River birch trees can be seen along rivers and streams in the eastern United States. These deciduous trees can reach heights of 60-80 feet and 40 feet wide. Their trunks are 2 feet in diameter. River birches live between 50 and 75 years, with a symmetrical upright growth pattern.

They can be used as shade trees as they prefer to be located on the east or northern side of a house, where they will enjoy afternoon shade. River birches are well-suited for rain gardens and other low-lying areas due to their resistance to flooding and ability to withstand wet soils.

River birches are important because they provide shelter and food for many species of wildlife.

6. Pin Oak (Quercus palustris)

Because of its rapid growth rate, Pin Oak is a popular option for landscaping. It can grow up to 100 feet tall and can grow more than 24 inches per year. It is part of the Fagaceae Family. The Latin name Quercus palustris comes from the place where it was first named and described by Otto von Munchhausen, a botanist, in 1770.

Pin oaks have a life expectancy of 150 to 200 years and are distinguished by their pyramid-shaped crowns, dark green leaves and long lifespan. The leaves are usually lobed with seven to nine points. The common name of the tree comes from the fact its branches grow straight up like pins.

Pin oaks can be found all over North America, including from Maine to Minnesota in the east to Oklahoma to Texas in the west. Pin oaks prefer full sun and moist soils, but they can tolerate partial shade. Because of their stature and ability to withstand urban conditions, pin oaks are often used as ornamental and street trees.

Because of their acorns which are food for many animals including deer and squirrels, they are a popular choice in wildlife gardens.

7. Northern Red Oak (Quercus Rubra)

The Northern Red Oak is an adaptable and hardy tree that gardeners will love. Its distinctive feature is its deeply lobed, sharply bristly-tipped leaves.

Red oak acorns are notable for their large, round shape. They have a scaly cover that covers less than one-quarter of the acorn. While the bark of the red oak tree is smooth and dark grey when it is young, it becomes more ridged as it ages.

Northern Red Oaks make great trees for low-maintenance gardens. They are hardy and can tolerate all soil types. The Northern Red Oak is a great choice if you’re looking for an adaptable and hardy tree to grow in your garden.

8. Northern Catalpa (Catalpa speciosa)

Northern catalpa (Catalpa speciosa) is a fast-growing, large tree native to the eastern United States. Its hardiness allows it to thrive in all soil types, earning it its common name. Northern catalpa can grow to 60 feet tall or more. This makes it one of the tallest trees in its range.

This tree also has showy, large flowers that are available in the late spring and early summer. If you are looking for a shade tree that grows quickly but is also visually appealing and durable, the Hardy catalpa is a great choice.

The northern catalpa is a deciduous tree, ranging in size from medium to large, that is found in the eastern United States. Its large, heart-shaped leaves are easily distinguishable and its long, bean-like pods are what make it stand out.

The northern catalpa is an ornamental tree that is very popular. Its showy blooms make it a good source of nectar for honey bees and other pollinators. The northern catalpa is not only decorative but also has a strong, durable, yet lightweight wood.

It has been used in everything, from railroad ties and fence posts to furniture and musical instruments. The northern catalpa, due to its numerous uses, is an important species both in the horticultural as well as forestry industries.

9. Hackberry (Celtis occidentalis).

Celtis occidentalis is commonly called the common hackberry. It is a large deciduous tree that is native to North America. It is also known by the names: American hackberry, nettle tree and sugarberry. Hackberry (Celtis Occidentalis) grows at a medium to fast rate with height gains of anywhere from 13″ up to over 24″.

It is distinguished by its large, straight leaves and small, round fruits. Hackberry fruit is a vital food source for birds during winter months when other food sources are scarce.

Hackberry trees are strong and dense wood, making them a popular choice in furniture and cabinetry. Hackberry trees can also be valuable for wildlife as they provide shelter and nesting places for small mammals and birds.

10. Red Sunset Maple (Acer rubrum ‘Franksred’)

The Red Sunset Maple makes a beautiful addition to any yard. This beautiful tree can grow up to 35 feet in width and 50 feet high. It is a great addition to any yard.

Bright red leaves stand out against the greens of summer and winter. The tree’s strong roots also make it a great choice for areas that are susceptible to flooding. The Red Sunset Maple can also live up to 100 years if it is well cared for.

The Red Sunset Maple can be planted in your front yard as an ornamental tree or as part of larger landscaping. It will add beauty and value to any home.

11. Paper Birch (Betula papyrifera)

The paper birch tree is a fast-growing, medium-sized tree and is native to North America. The thin, papery bark peels in layers and gives it its name.

This bark type is also fragile and is vulnerable to damage from wind, snow, ice and wind. The brightly colored leaves of the paper birch turn yellow in autumn. The triangular shape of the leaves is a good fit for this plant.

The paper birch flowers in spring with small, yellow-colored flowers that grow in groups. The tree’s fruits are small brown nuts that are covered by a thin, papery shell.

The average height of paper birches is between 40-60 feet. They are best suited for full sun and well-drained soil, but they can be tolerant of a wide range of conditions. They are used both as shade trees and ornamental trees. Because of their light color and straight grain, they are a popular choice in woodworking projects.

The paper birch (Betula Papyrifera), is a medium-sized to large deciduous tree, native to North America. The thin, papery bark on this tree gives it its common name. It is able to peel away layers of the trunk.

The paper birch tree is a very popular tree for landscaping. It is used often as a specimen or in group plantings. This tree thrives in full sun. It prefers well-drained, moist soils. It can be grown in urban areas and even used as a street tree.

The paper birch is a beautiful, yellow-orange-colored tree that provides year-round interest. The birds love the small, winged seed produced by this tree.

12. Quaking Aspen (Populus tremuloides)

Quaking Aspen can grow to over 24 inches per year and is fast-growing. It has a small, heart-shaped leaf with fine serrated edges.

Although the leaves of Balsam poplar are very variable, they can be either egg-shaped (ovate), or narrowly spear-shaped(lanceolate). They have tiny teeth at the leaf margin. Both trees are well-known for their stunning fall colors.

The Quaking Aspen leaves turn bright yellow while the Balsam Poplar leaves turn deep red. These trees are an integral part of many ecosystems in North America. They provide a habitat for small animals and birds and help to prevent soil erosion.

Conclusion

These 12 trees are great choices for your home landscape. All of them are fast-growing and can provide shade. With its bright red leaves that turn yellow during the autumn, the Red Sunset Maple makes a great addition to any yard. The Paper Birch, a hardy tree that can last up to 100 years, is native to North America. Quaking Aspen, a tree that grows quickly and turns a lovely golden yellow in fall, is fast-growing. No matter which tree you choose to grow, you will add beauty and value to your home.

Trees add beauty, shade, and stability to any landscape. It is important to take into account the tree’s growth rate and ultimate height when choosing a tree for your house. These 12 trees are excellent options for your home’s landscape. You can find the right tree for you by doing some research.

Fast-Growing Varieties Trees for Shade FAQ

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.