7 Fast Growing Trees for California Homes

California is home to some of the most magnificent trees in the world—from the oldest redwoods in the Sierra Nevada to the Methuselah in Death Valley’s Inyo County. If you own a slice of California landscape, chances are you’d like to plant trees that bring beauty, shade, and value.

But not all homeowners want to wait decades for slow growers like White Oaks or California Junipers to mature. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of 7 fast-growing trees perfect for California homes. Each adds shade, privacy, and character to your landscape in just a few years.

1. Hass Avocado

Beloved for its creamy fruit, the Hass Avocado thrives in Southern California’s climate. Trees begin producing in as little as 1–2 years and can grow up to 37 feet tall, doubling as a privacy screen.

• Fast fruit production (1–2 years).
• Thrives in humid regions of California.
• Reaches up to 37 feet tall for privacy.

2. Palo Verde Multi (Cercidium 'Desert Museum')

Famous for its sunshine-yellow flowers each spring, the Palo Verde Multi adds vibrancy to any California yard. Unlike other thorny species, this cultivar is thornless and drought tolerant.

• Bright yellow spring flowers.
• Fast growth, thornless branches.
• Thrives in drought-tolerant landscapes.

3. Jacaranda

Known for its lavender-blue flowers and fern-like foliage, Jacaranda trees grow quickly to 40 feet tall. They make excellent shade trees and shine in sunny California locations.

• Lavender-blue flowers from spring to summer.
• Up to 40 ft tall with wide-spreading branches.
• Prefers sunny locations for best blooms.

4. Red Crape Myrtle

A striking hybrid, Red Crape Myrtle offers pinkish-red flowers and fast growth as either a shrub or small tree. It’s a favorite accent for California yards.

• Needs full sun for best color.
• Moderate water requirements.
• Adapts to well-drained soil.

5. Italian Cypress

The iconic columnar evergreen, Italian Cypress is both fast-growing and low-maintenance. It reaches 60 feet tall, perfect for windbreaks and privacy screens in California landscapes.

• Evergreen, slender, vertical form.
• Thrives in full sun with moderate water.
• Minimal maintenance once established.

6. Valley Oak

Native to California’s valleys, the Valley Oak is one of the state’s mightiest oak trees. Growing 2 feet per year, it provides immense shade and a picturesque canopy.

• Deep green lobed leaves.
• Rapid growth—up to 2 ft per year.
• Drought tolerant but thrives with water access.

7. Leyland Cypress

A favorite for homeowners seeking fast privacy, Leyland Cypress grows 3–4 feet per year, reaching 40–60 ft tall. Its dense evergreen foliage forms a living wall against noise and neighbors.

• Among the fastest-growing conifers.
• Adaptable to many soil types.
• Drought tolerant once established.

All The Ways Trees Can Boost Your Landscaping—and Life

• Reduce energy costs by providing shade.
• Improve air quality and combat pollution.
• Increase property and neighborhood value.
• Help fight climate change by reducing greenhouse gases.
• Boost biodiversity and support wildlife.
• Encourage outdoor family time.
• Provide privacy and reduce stress.

Elevate Your California Landscaping With Plants Express

At Plants Express, we understand the urgency of wanting trees that grow quickly and bring beauty and shade. Our collection of fast-growing trees—from fruiting Haas Avocados to towering Leyland Cypress—ensures you’ll find the perfect fit for your California home.

Trees aren’t just landscaping—they’re living, growing companions that enrich your environment and your life for generations.

Shop Fast-Growing Trees at Plants Express