Do you want to grow a tree? Are you in search of Fast Growing Trees in Australia to achieve that dream garden or courtyard in little or no time?
Search no further, outlined below is a list of 22 top fastest growing trees in Australia and their features.
Australia, known for its diverse landscapes and unique flora, faces a growing need for fast-growing trees to meet various ecological, economic, and societal demands.
Gardeners are increasingly looking for shade and benefits like cooling, privacy, and habitat. Fast-growing Australian native trees offer a quick solution, reaching a good height in about 5-7 years from planting, making them a valuable addition to gardens.
Fast-growing trees play a pivotal role in combating climate change and enhancing air quality. They are integral in halting soil erosion, conserving water resources, and creating habitats for wildlife, and they also offer invaluable commercial potential.
Recognizing the importance of tree growth rates is vital for sustainable land management and addressing pressing environmental and economic challenges.
Factors Influencing Tree Growth – Fast-Growing Trees in Australia
The growth of trees in Australia is influenced by a complex interplay of environmental and species-specific factors. Understanding these influences is crucial for successful tree cultivation and management.
- Climate Conditions in Australia, such as regional Variations in Climate and the Impact of Temperature and Rainfall Patterns.
- Soil Conditions including Soil Types Across Australia and Soil Quality and Nutrients.
- Tree Species-Specific Factor – Genetic Variations in Growth Rates, and their Resistance to Pests and Diseases.
By considering these factors, land managers, policymakers, and tree growers can make informed decisions when selecting tree species. And also planning planting projects, and implementing sustainable management practices to promote healthy and fast-growing trees across Australia’s diverse landscapes.
List of Fastest Growing Trees in Australia
Here are 22 fast-growing trees native to Australia:
- Lemon-Scented Gum (Corymbia citriodora)
- Red Flowering Gum (Corymbia ficifolia)
- Brush Box (Lophostemon confertus)
- Queensland Maple (Flindersia brayleyana)
- Australian Blackwood (Acacia melanoxylon)
- Southern Silky Oak (Grevillea robusta)
- Australian Brush Cherry (Syzygium australe)
- Stiff Bottlebrush (Callistemon rigidus)
- Dwarf Flowering Gum (Corymbia ficifolia)
- Dwarf Lemon-scented Gum (Corymbia citriodora)
- Tahitian Lime (Citrus x latifolia)
- Redbuds (Cercis)
- Water Gum (Tristaniopsis laurina)
- Casuarina
- Wattle (Acacia)
- Lemon-scented Myrtle (Backhousia citriodora)
- Brush Box (Lophostemon confertus)
- Lilly Pilly (Syzygium spp.)
- Illawarra Flame Tree (Brachychiton acerifolius)
- Blueberry Ash (Elaeocarpus reticulatus)
- Lemon-scented myrtle (Backhousia citriodora)
- Macaranga (Macaranga spp.)
Lemon-Scented Gum (Corymbia citriodora)
The Lemon-Scented Gum, also known as Corymbia citriodora, is a tall and fast-growing eucalyptus tree native to Australia. It is renowned for its distinctive lemon fragrance emitted by its leaves. This tree is prized for its rapid growth, making it a popular choice for shade and landscaping, especially in regions with warm climates.
Lemon-Scented Gum (Corymbia citriodora) – Features
- Growth Rate: Lemon-scented gum is known for its rapid growth, often reaching heights of 30 meters (100 feet) or more within a few decades. Growth rates may vary depending on specific growing conditions and local climate.
- Preferred Climate and Soil Conditions: It thrives in warm temperate to tropical climates and prefers well-drained soils. This species is highly adaptable and can tolerate a variety of soil types.
- Physical Characteristics: This tree is known for its smooth, white to pinkish bark and lemon-scented, lance-shaped leaves. It can grow up to 50 meters in height.
- Cultivation and Care: Lemon-scented gums thrive in well-drained soil and full sun. They require regular watering during the establishment phase and tolerate drought once mature.
Red Flowering Gum (Corymbia ficifolia):
The Red Flowering Gum, scientifically called Corymbia ficifolia, is a striking Australian tree known for its vibrant red or pink flowers. This fast-growing species is highly favored for its rapid development, making it a valuable addition to gardens and urban landscapes, where it provides both shade and visual appeal.
Red Flowering Gum (Corymbia ficifolia) – Features
- Growth Rate: While it’s not the fastest grower among eucalyptus species, the red flowering gum can still grow relatively quickly, reaching a height of 10 meters (30 feet) or more within a few years.
- Preferred Climate and Soil Conditions: Native to Western Australia, it prefers a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. Well-drained soils are ideal for this tree.
- Physical Characteristics: These trees are prized for their stunning, bright red or pink flowers and rough, fibrous bark. They typically reach heights of 3 to 10 meters.
- Cultivation and Care: Red Flowering Gums prefer well-drained soils and full sun. Regular pruning helps maintain their shape and encourages flowering.
Brush Box (Lophostemon confertus):
Brush Box (Lophostemon confertus) is a fast-growing Australian native tree known for its dense, evergreen canopy and elegant appearance. This species thrives in a variety of soil types and is often planted in urban areas, parks, and gardens, thanks to its ability to quickly establish itself.
Brush Box (Lophostemon confertus) – Features
- Growth Rate: Brush box is known for its fast growth and can reach a height of 25 meters (80 feet) or more within a few decades.
- Preferred Climate and Soil Conditions: It thrives in subtropical and warm temperate climates and prefers well-drained soils. It’s commonly found along the eastern coast of Australia.
- Physical Characteristics: Brush Box trees have a compact, rounded canopy with dark green, glossy leaves. They can grow up to 30 meters tall.
- Cultivation and Care: They thrive in well-drained soils and are tolerant of both full sun and partial shade. Regular pruning can enhance their appearance.
Queensland Maple (Flindersia brayleyana):
The Queensland Maple, scientifically named Flindersia brayleyana, is a fast-growing rainforest tree native to northeastern Australia. It is valued for its timber and attractive woodgrain patterns. This species is known for its rapid growth in favorable conditions, making it suitable for reforestation efforts.
Queensland Maple (Flindersia brayleyana) – Features
- Growth Rate: Queensland maple is considered a fast-growing tree, reaching heights of 20 meters (65 feet) or more within a few decades.
- Preferred Climate and Soil Conditions: Native to Queensland, it prefers subtropical to tropical climates and well-drained soils.
- Physical Characteristics: Queensland Maples feature large, compound leaves and produce clusters of small, cream-colored flowers. They can reach heights of 20 to 40 meters.
- Cultivation and Care: These trees prefer fertile, well-drained soils and full sun to partial shade. Adequate watering is essential during dry periods.
Australian Blackwood (Acacia melanoxylon):
The Australian Blackwood, or Acacia melanoxylon, is a fast-growing acacia tree native to eastern Australia. It is renowned for its fine timber quality and versatility.
This species grows quickly under favorable conditions, making it a preferred choice for timber production and agroforestry projects.
Australian Blackwood (Acacia melanoxylon) – Features
- Growth Rate: Australian blackwood is known for its rapid growth and can reach heights of 20 meters (65 feet) or more within a few decades.
- Preferred Climate and Soil Conditions: It thrives in temperate and sub-tropical climates, preferring well-drained soils. This species is found in southeastern Australia.
- Physical Characteristics: Australian Blackwood trees have fern-like, dark green foliage and can grow up to 30 meters tall. They produce yellow, ball-shaped flowers.
- Cultivation and Care: They thrive in a variety of soil types and are well-suited to temperate climates. Pruning can help maintain a desirable shape.
Southern Silky Oak (Grevillea robusta):
The Southern Silky Oak, scientifically referred to as Grevillea robusta, is a fast-growing Australian tree with fern-like foliage and striking orange flowers. It is a valuable choice for landscaping and reforestation due to its rapid growth and adaptability to various soil types.
Southern Silky Oak (Grevillea robusta) – Features
- Growth Rate: While not a true oak, the southern silky oak is known for its fast growth, reaching heights of 30 meters (100 feet) or more within several decades.
- Preferred Climate and Soil Conditions: It prefers subtropical to tropical climates and well-drained soils. This species is native to eastern Australia.
- Physical Characteristics: Southern Silky Oaks have finely divided, fern-like leaves and produce bright yellow or orange flowers. They typically reach heights of 30 to 45 meters.
- Cultivation and Care: They prefer well-drained soils and full sun. Regular pruning can help control their size and shape.
Australian Brush Cherry (Syzygium australe):
The Australian Brush Cherry, known as Syzygium australe, is a fast-growing evergreen tree native to coastal regions of eastern Australia. It is appreciated for its dense foliage and ornamental value. This species quickly forms a lush, green screen, making it popular for hedges and garden boundaries.
Australian Brush Cherry (Syzygium australe) – Features
- Growth Rate: Australian brush cherry is known for its relatively fast growth, especially when young, and can reach heights of 10 meters (30 feet) or more within a few decades.
- Preferred Climate and Soil Conditions: It thrives in subtropical and tropical climates and prefers well-drained soils. This species is native to eastern Australia.
- Physical Characteristics: These trees have dense, glossy green foliage and may grow up to 15 meters in height. They produce small, white flowers and edible fruit.
- Cultivation and Care: They thrive in well-drained soils and full sun to partial shade. Pruning can encourage bushier growth.
Stiff Bottlebrush (Callistemon rigidus):
The Stiff Bottlebrush, scientifically called Callistemon rigidus, is a fast-growing shrub-like tree native to Australia. It is recognized by its stiff, cylindrical flower spikes resembling bottlebrushes.
This species grows rapidly and is often cultivated for its unique and attractive flowers, attracting birds and pollinators.
Stiff Bottlebrush (Callistemon rigidus) – Features
- Growth Rate: Stiff bottlebrush is known for its fast growth and can reach heights of 4-6 meters (13-20 feet) or more within a few years.
- Preferred Climate and Soil Conditions: Native to eastern Australia, it thrives in temperate to subtropical climates and well-drained soils.
- Physical Characteristics: Stiff Bottlebrush trees are known for their cylindrical, red, or yellow flower spikes and stiff, narrow leaves. They typically reach heights of 3 to 5 meters.
- Cultivation and Care: They prefer well-drained soils and full sun. Pruning after flowering can help maintain their shape and promote flowering.
Dwarf Flowering Gum (Corymbia ficifolia):
These trees typically start as small saplings and quickly develop into small to medium-sized trees. They produce abundant clusters of vibrant flowers, which can attract pollinators like bees and birds.
Dwarf Flowering Gum (Corymbia ficifolia) – Features
- Growth Rate and Development: The Dwarf Flowering Gum is known for its moderately fast growth rate. In optimal conditions, it can grow up to 5-6 meters (16-20 feet) in height in about 5-10 years. This makes it a relatively quick-growing tree compared to many other species.
- Physical Characteristics: The Dwarf Flowering Gum is a compact variety of Corymbia ficifolia, known for its stunning, prolific displays of red, pink, or orange flowers. It typically grows to a smaller size compared to the standard Corymbia ficifolia, making it an excellent choice for smaller gardens.
- Cultivation and Care: These trees thrive in well-drained soil and full sun. They require regular pruning to maintain their size and shape. The Dwarf Flowering Gum is valued for its vibrant and colorful blossoms.
Dwarf Lemon-scented Gum (Corymbia citriodora):
Similar to the Dwarf Flowering Gum, this variety starts as a young sapling and gradually develops into a compact tree. Its lemon-scented leaves add to its charm, and it’s well-suited for smaller gardens and urban environments.
Dwarf Lemon-scented Gum (Corymbia citriodora) – Features
- Growth Rate: The Dwarf Lemon-scented Gum also exhibits a moderate growth rate. It can reach a height of approximately 3-6 meters (10-20 feet) in about 5-10 years under favorable conditions.
- Physical Characteristics: The Dwarf Lemon-scented Gum is a more compact version of the Corymbia citriodora, also known as the Lemon-Scented Gum. It features lemon-scented, lance-shaped leaves and is well-suited for urban gardens due to its smaller size.
- Cultivation and Care: These trees prefer well-drained soil and full sun. Like other dwarf varieties, they are relatively easier to manage in smaller spaces. Pruning can help maintain their size and encourage bushier growth. The leaves emit a pleasant lemon scent when crushed.
Tahitian Lime (Citrus x latifolia):
The Tahitian Lime is a citrus tree renowned for its tangy, aromatic fruits. While it may not be considered a fast-growing tree in the traditional sense, it’s valued for its relatively quick fruit production compared to other citrus varieties. It’s a popular choice for gardeners looking to enjoy homegrown limes.
Tahitian Lime (Citrus x latifolia):
- Growth Rate and Development: Tahitian Limes are relatively fast-growing citrus trees, typically reaching maturity within a few years. Tahitian Lime Can reach heights of 10 to 20 feet (3 to 6 meters).
- Preferred Climate and Soil Conditions: They thrive in warm, subtropical tropical climates and well-draining, slightly acidic soils.
- Physical Characteristics: These trees feature glossy, dark green leaves and produce small, round, greenish-yellow fruits with a tangy flavor.
- Cultivation and Care: They require regular watering and protection from frost. Pruning may be necessary to maintain shape and promote fruit production.
Redbuds (Cercis)
Redbuds refer to several species within the Cercis genus, including the Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis). While they are not typically classified as fast-growing trees, they are admired for their early spring blossoms of vibrant pink or purple flowers, adding color and beauty to landscapes.
Redbuds (Cercis) – Features
- Growth Rate and Development: Redbuds vary in growth rate but are often considered moderately fast growers, reaching mature heights in several years. Typically grow to heights of 20 to 30 feet (6 to 9 meters).
- Preferred Climate and Soil Conditions: They flourish in a range of climates, from temperate to subtropical, and prefer well-drained soils.
- Physical Characteristics: Redbuds are known for their heart-shaped leaves and stunning pink or purple flowers that bloom in early spring.
- Cultivation and Care: They need consistent moisture and benefit from occasional pruning to encourage healthy growth and shape.
Water Gum (Tristaniopsis laurina):
The Water Gum, or Tristaniopsis laurina, is an Australian native tree known for its attractive glossy foliage and tolerance to wet conditions. It may not be among the fastest-growing species, but it is appreciated for its adaptability to various soil types, including wetter areas.
Water Gum (Tristaniopsis laurina) – Features
- Growth Rate and Development: Water Gums have a moderate growth rate and can develop into small to medium-sized trees. Water Gum (Tristaniopsis laurina): Generally attains heights of 20 to 50 feet (6 to 15 meters).
- Preferred Climate and Soil Conditions: They are well-suited to temperate subtropical climates and can tolerate wetter, boggy soils.
- Physical Characteristics: These trees feature glossy green leaves and produce small, yellow flowers.
- Cultivation and Care: Adequate water is essential for their growth, especially when establishing. They can thrive in various soil types, including clay.
Casuarina
Casuarina trees, commonly known as Sheoaks, vary by species. They are, however, significant for their adaptability to various environmental conditions and their role in stabilizing soil in coastal regions.
Casuarina – Features
- Growth Rate and Development: Casuarina trees vary in growth rate depending on the species. Some grow relatively quickly, especially in coastal conditions. The growth rate often ranges from 20 to 65 feet (6 to 20 meters).
- Preferred Climate and Soil Conditions: They are commonly found in coastal regions and thrive in sandy soils.
- Physical Characteristics: Casuarina trees have slender, needle-like leaves and a tall, coniferous appearance.
- Cultivation and Care: They are drought-tolerant once established and require minimal maintenance.
Wattle (Acacia)
Acacia, commonly known as Wattle, represents a diverse genus of Australian plants. While some species within the Acacia genus may grow rapidly, growth rates can vary among different varieties. Wattle trees are celebrated for their golden-yellow flowers and are a symbol of Australia.
Wattle (Acacia) – Features
- Growth Rate and Development: Acacia species vary in growth rate, with some growing relatively quickly. Heights vary widely among Acacia species, ranging from small shrubs to tall trees, with heights typically between 10 and 30 feet (3 to 9 meters).
- Preferred Climate and Soil Conditions: They are adapted to a wide range of climates, from arid to temperate, and prefer well-drained soils.
- Physical Characteristics: Acacia trees are known for their feathery, pinnate leaves and clusters of yellow flowers.
- Cultivation and Care: Most Acacia species are low-maintenance and drought-tolerant once established.
Lemon-scented Myrtle (Backhousia citriodora):
The Lemon-scented Myrtle, also known as Backhousia citriodora, is a small to medium-sized Australian native tree.
While not typically categorized as a fast grower, it is prized for its lemon-scented leaves, which are used for culinary and aromatic purposes, adding a delightful fragrance to gardens.
Lemon-scented Myrtle (Backhousia citriodora) – Features
- Growth Rate and Development: Lemon-scented Myrtle grows at a moderate pace and can reach a small to medium-sized tree.
- Preferred Climate and Soil Conditions: It thrives in subtropical to tropical climates and well-draining, slightly acidic soils.
- Physical Characteristics: This tree has aromatic lemon-scented leaves and small, cream-colored flowers.
- Cultivation and Care: It requires regular watering, particularly in dry spells, and pruning can help shape the tree and encourage bushier growth.
Other Fast-Growing Trees in Australia
- Brush Box (Lophostemon confertus)
Brush Box is a popular choice for urban landscaping due to its rapid growth, attractive evergreen foliage, and tolerance to various soil types. It produces creamy-white flowers in summer.
- Lilly Pilly (Syzygium spp.)
Lilly Pilly trees are known for their vibrant and glossy foliage. They are fast growers and are often used for hedging or as ornamental trees, providing both privacy and beauty.
- Illawarra Flame Tree (Brachychiton acerifolius)
This tree is renowned for its stunning red bell-shaped flowers that appear in late spring. It grows quickly and is a favorite for its striking appearance.
- Blueberry Ash (Elaeocarpus reticulatus)
Blueberry Ash is appreciated for its dense, lush foliage and small blueberry-like fruits. It’s a fast grower, making it ideal for creating hedges or screens.
- Lemon-scented myrtle (Backhousia citriodora)
This tree is cherished for its lemon-scented leaves and rapid growth. It’s often used for its aromatic foliage and as a quick source of shade.
- Macaranga (Macaranga spp.)
Macaranga trees encompass several species, many of which are fast-growing rainforest trees. They are valued for their role in reforestation efforts and their contribution to biodiversity.
Challenges and Concerns- Fast Growing Trees in Australia
While fast-growing tree species offer numerous benefits, their cultivation also presents certain challenges and concerns that need to be addressed for responsible and sustainable management.
- Invasive or Weedy Fast-Growing Species
Some fast-growing tree species, if not carefully managed, can become invasive and outcompete native vegetation. These invasive trees disrupt local ecosystems, alter habitat structures, and threaten biodiversity.
Without proper control measures, these trees can become problematic in natural and agricultural landscapes.
- Disease Susceptibility in Certain Tree Varieties
Some fast-growing tree varieties may be more susceptible to certain diseases, particularly when planted in monocultures.
Disease outbreaks can result in the loss of valuable timber resources and ecological disruption.
Managing disease susceptibility often requires vigilant monitoring, early detection, and mitigation strategies. Planting a diverse range of tree species and implementing
Fast-Growing Tree Planting Projects & Initiatives in Australia
- Greening Australia’s “Million Trees” Initiative: Greening Australia, a prominent environmental organization, launched the “Million Trees” initiative, aimed at planting a million native trees across Australia. This project successfully contributed to reforestation efforts, enhanced biodiversity, and sequestered a substantial amount of carbon dioxide.
- Urban Greening in Melbourne: Melbourne’s urban environment has been transformed through extensive tree-planting efforts. The City of Melbourne, in collaboration with community groups, implemented a program to plant thousands of fast-growing tree species in urban areas. These trees not only provide shade and improve air quality but also beautify the cityscape.
- One Tree Planted – Plant Trees in Australia: Since 2014, this organization has significantly increased its annual tree planting efforts and has formed partnerships in over 80 countries spanning North America, Latin America, Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Pacific.
The organization is been committed to simplifying environmental contributions for individuals and businesses. Their mission involves promoting a healthier climate, safeguarding biodiversity, and supporting reforestation endeavors.
- Landcare Australia: Landcare is a community-driven initiative that focuses on sustainable land management and environmental conservation. Many Landcare groups across Australia actively plant fast-growing trees as part of their reforestation and habitat restoration projects.
- Greening Government Buildings: Several Australian state governments have adopted policies to green government-owned properties. These initiatives include planting fast-growing trees around government buildings, which not only enhance the aesthetics but also contribute to urban cooling and biodiversity.
FAQs
What makes fast-growing Australian native trees a good choice for my garden?
Fast-growing Australian native trees offer quick shade, cooling, privacy, and habitat benefits for gardens.
Is it possible to cultivate any fast-growing Australian native tree in all regions of Australia?
Not all fast-growing Australian native trees thrive in all parts of Australia; choose species adapted to your region.
Do fast-growing Australian native trees commonly face pest-related issues?
Some fast-growing natives may be susceptible to specific pests, so research and preventive measures are advisable.
What timing is recommended for planting fast-growing Australian native trees?
Plant fast-growing Australian native trees in spring or early autumn for optimal growth.
Conclusion
In conclusion, fast-growing trees in Australia play a key role in addressing various environmental, economic, and aesthetic challenges.
However, it is crucial to acknowledge and address the challenges associated with invasive species, potential negative environmental impacts, and disease susceptibility in certain varieties.
To enjoy the benefits of fast-growing trees in Australia, informed tree selection and sustainable planting practices are important.
