When you’re looking to add shade and structure to your yard, fast-growing trees are the go-to solution. But not all trees are created equal—some come with invasive roots that can damage sidewalks, pipes, and foundations.
These 12 fast-growing trees give you lush shade without the hassle of surface roots, keeping your yard clean and your property safe.
1. Red Maple (Acer rubrum)
A classic choice for shade, the red maple grows quickly and displays fiery autumn foliage. It has a deep root system, making it safe for lawns and driveways.
Growth Rate: Up to 3 feet per year
Best For: Front yards and large open lawns
2. Japanese Zelkova (Zelkova serrata)
A graceful tree with a vase-like canopy, the Zelkova grows fast and resists root spreading. It’s ideal for urban landscapes where space and soil are limited.
Growth Rate: 2–3 feet per year
Best For: Street-side planting or near patios
3. Chinese Pistache (Pistacia chinensis)
Known for its vibrant red-orange fall leaves, the Chinese pistache grows upright and develops deep, non-invasive roots.
Growth Rate: 2 feet per year
Best For: Hot, dry climates and decorative shade
4. Dawn Redwood (Metasequoia glyptostroboides)
An ancient species that grows incredibly fast while staying tidy below ground. Its soft, feathery leaves provide excellent summer shade.
Growth Rate: 3–5 feet per year
Best For: Large backyards or property borders
5. American Hornbeam (Carpinus caroliniana)
Also called “musclewood” for its smooth, sinewy bark, this tree provides dense shade without aggressive roots.
Growth Rate: 1–2 feet per year
Best For: Small yards and shaded seating areas
6. Crape Myrtle (Lagerstroemia indica)
Perfect for warm climates, the crape myrtle grows fast and blooms with bright pink or white flowers in summer—all while maintaining shallow, non-invasive roots.
Growth Rate: 2 feet per year
Best For: Driveways and walkways
7. Green Ash (Fraxinus pennsylvanica)
A hardy tree that grows tall and wide quickly, ideal for creating a canopy of shade. Its roots stay contained if given proper space.
Growth Rate: Up to 3 feet per year
Best For: Backyard shade or near patios
8. Amur Maple (Acer ginnala)
Compact yet fast-growing, this maple variety offers vivid red foliage and safe, fibrous roots that won’t damage nearby surfaces.
Growth Rate: 2 feet per year
Best For: Small gardens and front lawns
9. Chinese Elm (Ulmus parvifolia)
Unlike other elms, the Chinese variety has a neat root system and stunning mottled bark. It’s extremely resilient and fast-growing.
Growth Rate: 3 feet per year
Best For: Driveway edges and large yards
10. River Birch (Betula nigra)
Known for its peeling bark and tolerance to wet soil, the river birch grows quickly without causing root issues.
Growth Rate: 2–3 feet per year
Best For: Damp or low-lying areas
11. Desert Willow (Chilopsis linearis)
Native to arid regions, this ornamental tree grows quickly with minimal water needs and zero root invasiveness.
Growth Rate: 2 feet per year
Best For: Xeriscapes and dry gardens
12. Honey Locust (Gleditsia triacanthos inermis)
A classic shade tree with light, dappled foliage. It grows rapidly and adapts to a range of soils without spreading roots.
Growth Rate: Up to 3 feet per year
Best For: Large open spaces needing fast shade
Conclusion
Choosing the right shade tree means enjoying comfort without complications. These 12 fast-growing species offer quick canopy coverage, minimal cleanup, and root systems that play nicely with driveways, lawns, and foundations. Whether your yard is small or spacious, these trees bring both shade and peace of mind.
