Fast Growing Trees in Florida
Gardeners in Florida have a vast variety of fast-growing trees to choose from that will be fine additions to their landscapes. Whether you desire a flowering, fruiting, evergreen or palm, there is a tree that will grow in your area of the state. Florida is divided into three planting zones, USDA zones 8, 9, and 10, so select a tree that is appropriate for your area’s specific growing conditions.
Large Trees
Florida gardeners have many large trees to add to their landscapes that will grow quickly. Red maple (Acerrubrum) does well in all regions of the state, reaching a height of 80 feet, with a width of 25 to 35 feet. The tree produces red flowers throughout winter and spring, with striking red foliage in the fall. Red maples will do well in damp areas. Green ash (Fraxinus pennsylvanica) grows well in the north and central regions, reaching a height of 50 to 100 feet, with a width of 30 to 70 feet. The tree does well in shaded areas and tolerates wet conditions, as well as attracts butterflies. Southern slash pine (Pinus elliottii) does well in the central and southern regions. The tree grows to a height of 75 to 100 feet, with a width of 35 to 50 feet. Plant the tree at least 30 feet from any structures, as it has a low wind tolerance.
- Gardeners in Florida have a vast variety of fast-growing trees to choose from that will be fine additions to their landscapes.
- Red maple (Acerrubrum) does well in all regions of the state, reaching a height of 80 feet, with a width of 25 to 35 feet.
Medium Trees
Florida has many medium-sized trees that will grow rather quickly. Golden shower (Cassia fistula) does well in the central and southern regions, reaching a height of 30 to 40 feet, with a width of 24 to 40 feet. The tree attracts butterflies and its bright yellow summertime flowers are quite striking. Crepe myrtle (Lagerstroemia indica) does well in the northern and central sections of Florida, reaching a height of 25 to 50 feet, with a width of 25 to 35 feet. The tree produces white, showy flowers in summer, which attract birds. Mango (Mangifera indica) grows well in the central and southern regions, reaching a height of 30 to 45 feet and a width of 30 to 40 feet, and produces edible fruits. There are many cultivars, including dwarf varieties.
- Florida has many medium-sized trees that will grow rather quickly.
- Mango (Mangifera indica) grows well in the central and southern regions, reaching a height of 30 to 45 feet and a width of 30 to 40 feet, and produces edible fruits.
Small Trees
Florida gardeners with little yard space have can choose from many smaller varieties of fast growing trees. Banana (Musa) grows best in the central and southern regions, and can reach a height of seven to 30 feet, with a width of 10 to 15 feet, producing edible fruits. Nectarine (Prunus persica nucipersica) grows best in the north and central regions. It grows to a height of 15 to 25 feet, with a width of 15 to 25 feet. The tree produces white/red flowers in springtime, as well as edible fruits. Miniature fishtail palms (Chamaedorea) grow well in all regions of the state, reaching a height of six to 10 feet, with a width of four to six feet. The tree produces creamy white flowers in spring through summer.
- Florida gardeners with little yard space have can choose from many smaller varieties of fast growing trees.
- Banana (Musa) grows best in the central and southern regions, and can reach a height of seven to 30 feet, with a width of 10 to 15 feet, producing edible fruits.
References
Writer Bio
For over 25 years, Joyce Starr has owned businesses dealing with landscape & design, lawn maintenance, specialty herbs and a garden center. She holds certificates in landscape design and xeriscaping. Starr shares her passion for nature in her writing, publishing articles on horticulture, outdoor recreation, travel as well as business.