Looking to add some life to your yard without waiting a decade to see results? These fast-growing plants are perfect for bringing in lush greenery and instant curb appeal. Here’s the lowdown on their best traits and how to pick the right one for your space.
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++Purple Leaf Filbert (Corylus maxima “Purpurea”)
The Purple Leaf Filbert (or Purple Hazel) gives you all the perks of a classic hazelnut tree but with a stunning twist: deep, dark burgundy foliage. This shrub grows quickly, is super easy to care for, and handles pruning like a champ. If you pick a sunny spot, it’ll basically take care of itself. Some gardeners even plant them in rows to create a unique hedge, just keep in mind that they do drop their leaves in the fall.
++Leyland Cypress (Cupressus × leylandii)
If you’re dreaming of a Mediterranean vibe and need privacy *yesterday*, the Leyland Cypress is your best friend. These trees are absolute speed demons when it comes to growth. There’s something so peaceful about watching them sway in the breeze. They’re hardy enough for most climates and are a go-to for anyone wanting a tall, evergreen screen in record time.
++Empress Tree (Paulownia tomentosa)
The Empress Tree (or Princess Tree) grows so incredibly fast that some people actually mistake it for a weed! But unlike a weed, it puts on a spectacular show during its blooming season. While it is a vigorous grower, you can keep it in check with a little maintenance. If you want a substantial, beautiful tree in your yard without the multi-year wait, this is one of the few that can actually deliver.
++Lady’s Mantle (Alchemilla)
For a fast-growing perennial, you can’t beat Lady’s Mantle. It spreads beautifully and its soft green leaves make it an excellent groundcover for choking out weeds. Beyond the foliage, it produces lovely chartreuse flowers that bees absolutely love. By adding this to your garden, you’re not just filling space quickly—you’re also giving your local pollinators a major helping hand.
++Bamboo (Bambusoideae)
Bamboo is world-famous for being one of the fastest-growing plants on the planet. While it originated in Asia, there are plenty of cold-hardy varieties that thrive in US gardens without needing extra winter protection. Because it grows so densely, it’s a favorite for natural privacy fences. Just be sure to research the specific variety (clumping vs. running) so you can control the height and spread to fit your yard perfectly.
++Elderberry (Sambucus nigra)
Black Elderberry is a fast-growing, bushy shrub that offers a “triple threat” of benefits. First, the flowers are a nectar goldmine for insects. Second, you can harvest those flowers for homemade syrups and desserts. And third, if you leave the flowers, they turn into dark berries that are great for jams (and a favorite snack for backyard birds). It’s a win-win-win!
++Forsythia (Forsythia x intermedia)
The Forsythia is often the first sign that spring has arrived. This shrub explodes with bright yellow, bell-shaped flowers early in the season. Because it grows so vigorously, you’ll have a massive “sea of gold” in no time. Pro tip: cut a few branches in early spring and put them in a vase indoors—they look stunning all on their own and bring a pop of color to your living room.
++Giant Sequoia (Sequoiadendron giganteum)
Looking for something truly legendary? The Giant Sequoia is surprisingly fast-growing in its youth. While these are some of the largest trees on Earth, you can actually grow them in a large garden for quite a while. And if you don’t have a massive estate? They actually make incredible bonsai trees, allowing you to enjoy a “giant” in a very small package.