Fast Growing Driveway Trees: 7 Beautiful Shade-Makers Ready for Planting This Spring

A fast-growing tree can transform a plain driveway into a welcoming, shaded lane in just a few years. I’ve watched my own driveway go from a sun-baked stretch of asphalt to a cool, inviting entrance after planting the right species along each side.

Choosing trees that grow quickly can give your property curb appeal, privacy, and shade without the decades-long wait that comes with slower-growing varieties.

I’ve learned through trial and error that not all fast-growing trees are created equal. Some develop shallow, invasive roots that can damage driveways, while others drop messy fruit or require constant pruning. My adventures in driveway landscaping have taught me which varieties offer the perfect balance of rapid growth, attractive appearance, and practical benefits without creating headaches down the road.

1) Emerald Green Arborvitae

I’ve been crushing on Emerald Green Arborvitae trees for years now, and they’re a fantastic option if you’re looking to line your driveway with something that grows fairly quickly. These beauties have become one of my go-to recommendations for friends who want privacy without waiting decades.

When I first planted these in my own yard, I was pleasantly surprised by their growth rate. While not the fastest growers around, they still put on a respectable 1 to 2 feet per year when they’re young and getting established. After that initial growth spurt, they typically grow about 6 to 9 inches annually.

One thing I’ve learned through trial and error is that patience is needed during those first couple years. As a neighbor once told me (and I’ve since confirmed), these trees need 1-2 years to establish their root systems before they really take off above ground.

What makes these perfect for driveways is their naturally columnar shape. They’ll eventually reach about 12-14 feet tall but stay slim at just 3-4 feet wide, meaning they won’t encroach on your driving space as they mature.

I absolutely adore their bright green foliage that stays vibrant year-round. Unlike some evergreens that bronze in winter, these maintain their emerald color even during the coldest months, keeping your driveway looking fresh and inviting all year.

My favorite part about using these as driveway trees? They create such a grand entrance feeling without requiring much maintenance once established. Just give them well-draining soil and at least 6 hours of sunlight daily, and they’ll reward you with years of gorgeous greenery.

2) Leyland Cypress

I’ve always been amazed by how quickly Leyland Cypress trees transform a property. These evergreen beauties are some of the fastest-growing privacy trees you can plant, shooting up an impressive 3-5 feet per year! For impatient gardeners like me, they’re practically magical.

When I first planted a row of Leyland Cypress along my driveway, I was stunned by their rapid growth. Within just two years, they created a gorgeous green wall that sheltered my home from street noise and nosy neighbors. Their dense, feathery foliage stays dark green year-round, giving my landscape structure even in winter.

I love how these trees naturally grow in a uniform, symmetrical shape without much trimming. This makes them perfect for busy gardeners who don’t want high-maintenance plants. They create an instant “estate” feel to any property, framing driveways with stately elegance.

These adaptable trees reach heights of up to 40 feet with a spread around 20 feet. I’ve found they’re surprisingly tolerant of different soil types, though they do appreciate well-draining conditions and consistent moisture while establishing.

In my experience, Leyland Cypress performs best in full to partial sun positions. I’ve noticed they don’t love harsh winds, so I try to give them a bit of protection when possible. They’re also remarkably resilient against many common pests and diseases that plague other evergreens.

For driveway plantings, I space my Leyland Cypress about 8-10 feet apart. This gives them room to mature while still creating that continuous green screen effect. Their vertical growth habit means they don’t encroach on the driveway space itself—a practical consideration I appreciate!

3) River Birch

I absolutely adore River Birch trees for driveways that need quick shade. These native beauties are some of the fastest growers in my garden, shooting up 2 to 3 feet each year. That’s like watching a tree grow in fast-forward!

The first time I planted a River Birch near my garden path, I was shocked at how quickly it established itself. Within just two seasons, it was already casting delightful dappled shade over my hostas.

Don’t let the “River” in its name fool you! While these trees naturally grow near water, they’re remarkably adaptable to different soil types. I’ve successfully grown them in my relatively dry front yard with just a bit of extra watering during their first year.

What really makes me smile about River Birch is that gorgeous peeling bark. It creates such visual interest year-round, especially in winter when the exfoliating cinnamon-colored bark stands out against the snow in my garden.

For driveways, I particularly recommend the Heritage® River Birch variety. It attracts songbirds and butterflies while providing cool shade. I’ve spent many summer afternoons listening to birds chirping in mine!

The mature spread of these trees is 40 to 60 feet, so I always suggest planting them at least 20 feet from your driveway edge. This gives them room to spread their glorious canopy without growing directly over your car.

In fall, my River Birch puts on a spectacular show with buttery golden-yellow leaves. It’s like having a living gold sculpture in the yard!

I’ve found these trees remarkably resilient against common diseases that plague other birch varieties. I haven’t had to fuss over mine nearly as much as some of my other trees.

4) Quaking Aspen

I’ve always been mesmerized by the Quaking Aspen tree with its shimmering leaves that dance in the slightest breeze. If you’re looking for a fast-growing driveway tree, these beauties can shoot up by an impressive 5 feet per year!

My neighbor planted a few along his rural driveway, and I was stunned by how quickly they transformed the space. These trees grow in an oval shape that can reach heights of 40-50 feet with a spread of 20-30 feet when mature.

What I love most about Quaking Aspens is their adaptability. They’re cold-hardy trees that can handle harsh winters and even poor soil conditions. In my garden journal, I’ve noted how they thrive where other trees struggle.

The unique pyramidal shape of varieties like the Summer Shimmer Quaking Aspen creates a graceful, upright branching pattern that looks stunning along driveways. They can grow 50-60 feet tall with elegant proportions.

I should warn you about one habit though – they’re enthusiastic spreaders! These trees have a suckering growth habit that some experts caution against for residential yards. I learned this the hard way when small aspens started popping up across my side yard!

For driveway plantings, I recommend installing root barriers if you decide to go with Quaking Aspens. This helps control their spreading tendency while still enjoying their fast growth and beautiful shimmer.

The silvery-white bark adds winter interest when the leaves have fallen, making them a year-round visual treat for your driveway landscape.

5) Norway Spruce

I’m absolutely smitten with the Norway Spruce when it comes to driveway trees that don’t keep you waiting. These magnificent evergreens can grow more than 2 feet per year, making them one of the speediest spruce options for your landscape!

My neighbor planted a row of these along his driveway five years ago, and I’ve watched with amazement as they’ve transformed from knee-high seedlings into impressive sentinels. The dense, dark green needles create a beautiful privacy screen that stays gorgeous all year round.

What I love most about Norway Spruce is how adaptable they are. In my experience, they don’t throw tantrums about soil conditions—they’ll grow happily in acidic, loamy, sandy, or even clay soils. They just need decent drainage and plenty of sunshine to show off their growth superpowers.

These trees aren’t just pretty faces, either. I’ve noticed so many birds taking shelter in mine during winter storms. According to gardening friends, Norway Spruce provides important winter cover for wildlife including deer and various birds. It’s like having a nature sanctuary right in your front yard!

When fully mature, a Norway Spruce can reach 50 feet in height, so I always recommend considering their final size when planning. I learned this lesson the hard way after planting mine too close together!

If you’re creating a driveway border, think about spacing them about 15-20 feet apart. I’ve seen folks debate the mature spread of 25-40 feet, but in a driveway setting, you can space them closer if you’re willing to do some light pruning as they grow.

6) Italian Cypress

I’ve always been fascinated by the Italian Cypress – those tall, slender trees that make me think of Tuscan landscapes and Mediterranean villas. If you’re looking for a dramatic vertical accent for your driveway, these trees are hard to beat!

Italian Cypress trees are incredibly fast-growing, which is perfect when you want quick results. In ideal conditions, these green giants can grow up to 3 feet each year. I’ve watched them transform bare driveways into elegant entrances in just a couple of seasons.

What I love about these trees is their naturally columnar shape – they don’t need much pruning to maintain that pencil-thin silhouette. They naturally grow tall (up to 80 feet eventually) but stay slim, making them perfect for narrow spaces along driveways.

In my experience, these trees are remarkably low-maintenance once established. They’re drought-tolerant after their first year, which means less watering for me! I’ve found they do best in full sun and well-draining soil.

The deep evergreen color provides year-round interest, and I appreciate how they create a sense of formality without much effort. Plant them in pairs to create a dramatic entrance to your property that feels both welcoming and sophisticated.

I’ve noticed that real estate agents love these trees because they can increase your property value. In my neighborhood, homes with well-placed Italian Cypress trees along the driveway tend to stand out.

Their lifespan is impressive too – I’ve seen specimens that have been thriving for decades. With a growth rate of 1-2 feet annually, they’ll provide structure and beauty to your driveway for many years to come.

7) Red Maple

I’ve always had a soft spot for Red Maples (Acer rubrum) when planning driveway trees. They’re like that reliable friend who shows up looking fabulous in every season – especially autumn when they put on a truly spectacular show.

These beauties are fast-growing shade trees, adding about 3 to 5 feet yearly in their early years. That’s practically growing before your eyes! I’ve watched young saplings transform into substantial shade-givers in just a few years.

What makes Red Maples special to me is their year-round interest. They offer red flowers in early spring, reddish new growth in summer, and then those fiery autumn leaves that make your neighbors stop their cars to admire your driveway.

But I need to offer a friendly warning from my own experience. While I adore maples, they’re not always the best choice directly beside paved areas. Maple trees have notoriously shallow root systems that can eventually heave and crack pavement. I learned this the hard way!

If you want that gorgeous Red Maple color to frame your entrance, consider planting them at least 15-20 feet from the edge of your driveway. This gives those roots room to spread without causing trouble.

I’ve found that Red Maples are wonderfully adaptable to different soil conditions, making them forgiving choices for beginners. They’ve thrived in both my old clay-heavy yard and my current sandier soil.

For the best fall color show (which is why most of us want these trees!), aim for a spot with full sun. In my partially shaded backyard, the maple’s color is nice but nothing compared to the flame-red display on the sunny front side.

8) Ginkgo Tree

I’ve always had a soft spot for trees with character, and the Ginkgo certainly qualifies! With its distinctive fan-shaped leaves and golden fall color, it’s like having a living fossil in your driveway. These ancient beauties have been around since the dinosaurs roamed the earth.

Now, I should be upfront about something – Ginkgos aren’t typically considered fast-growing trees. They’re more of a slow and steady wins the race type. But don’t let that deter you! The patience required is well rewarded.

Some varieties, like the Autumn Gold Ginkgo, grow at a moderate pace once established. With proper care in the early years, I’ve found they’ll reward you with more vigorous growth than you might expect.

What I love about Ginkgos for driveways is their adaptability and durability. They handle urban conditions like a champ – pollution, salt, compacted soil – these trees just shrug it off and keep growing.

The Sky Tower Ginkgo is particularly nice for driveways with its narrower, columnar form. It won’t spread out and interfere with vehicles or power lines, making it a practical choice for tighter spaces.

In autumn, your driveway will be transformed with a carpet of bright yellow leaves. I still remember the first time I saw a mature Ginkgo in fall color – it was like someone had turned on a golden light bulb!

My tip? If you’re planting a Ginkgo, select a male cultivar. The female trees produce fruits that, well, let’s just say they smell like something died. No one wants that aroma greeting guests as they pull into your driveway!

9) Crepe Myrtle

I’ve always had a soft spot for Crepe Myrtles along driveways. They’re showstoppers that add a gorgeous canopy of summer color when planted in rows. What’s not to love about a tree that grows quickly and produces thousands of beautiful blooms?

Crepe Myrtles are fairly fast growing, typically adding about 1-2 feet per year. Some varieties like the Natchez Crepe Myrtle are even more ambitious, growing 3-5 feet annually! This makes them perfect for impatient gardeners like me who don’t want to wait decades for a mature-looking landscape.

I’ve found these trees particularly charming as driveway borders. They create this wonderful tunnel effect when they mature, with their colorful blooms forming a canopy overhead. My neighbor lined her long country driveway with them, and driving through feels like entering a magical flowering gateway each summer.

What I appreciate most about Crepe Myrtles is their versatility. They come in different sizes, so you can choose what works for your space. The size is actually the most important factor when selecting the right variety for your driveway.

Another bonus I’ve noticed is their interesting bark. Some varieties, like Natchez, have this gorgeous cinnamon-colored bark that provides winter interest when the flowers are gone. I actually find myself admiring mine almost as much in January as I do in July!

If you’re considering lining your driveway, Crepe Myrtles are wonderful choices that will reward you with months of flowers and relatively quick results. Just be sure to give them proper spacing so they can reach their full potential!

10) Weeping Willow

I’ve always had a soft spot for Weeping Willows in driveways. There’s something magical about driving under those graceful, cascading branches that feels like entering a secret garden.

If you’re looking for a fast-growing shade tree, the Weeping Willow might be your new best friend. These beauties can grow an impressive 3-4 feet per year, making them one of the speediest options for creating that dreamy driveway entrance.

Some particularly vigorous specimens can shoot up even faster—I’ve seen reports of 6-8 feet of growth in a single season! That’s like watching a tree grow in fast-forward.

My neighbor planted two Weeping Willows at the entrance to her long country driveway five years ago. Today, they create a stunning green archway that transforms her ordinary driveway into something from a storybook.

These willows typically reach 30-50 feet in height with a spread of 30-40 feet, so they’ll create substantial shade once established. Their brilliant fall color is another delightful bonus that I look forward to each year.

One important tip from my own experience: Weeping Willows are thirsty trees. I learned this the hard way when I planted one too close to my water pipes! They need consistently moist soil and do best near natural water sources.

While they’re easy to grow and quick to take root, I’ve found they aren’t the best choice for arid climates. In my garden journal, I’ve noted they prefer full sun but can tolerate partial shade, making them versatile for different driveway orientations.

Understanding Fast Growing Driveway Trees

Planting trees along a driveway transforms your property in ways you might not expect. I’ve found that the right trees make all the difference in creating that perfect welcome feeling while solving practical problems too.

The Role of Trees in Curb Appeal

Let me tell you, nothing boosts your home’s first impression like a stately line of trees framing your driveway! I discovered this firsthand when I planted six saplings along my gravel path years ago. Now they create this magnificent green tunnel that visitors can’t stop complimenting.

Trees don’t just look pretty—they’re hardworking multitaskers. They provide cooling shade that can transform your landscape and protect your car from baking in summer heat. I’ve measured temperatures up to 15 degrees cooler under my driveway trees!

They also create natural boundaries and privacy screens. Before my trees matured, I could see straight into my neighbor’s kitchen window. Now I have a living green wall that gives us both privacy.

Fast-growing varieties deliver these benefits quicker, sometimes adding 3-5 feet yearly in ideal conditions. Talk about instant gratification for us impatient gardeners!

Choosing the Right Species

I learned the hard way that not all fast-growing trees belong near driveways. My first attempt with silver maples was a disaster—their invasive roots cracked my concrete within three years!

The trick is finding species that grow quickly but have non-invasive root systems. Oak varieties tend to be excellent choices since they have deep roots that won’t disrupt pavement, as I discovered from fellow gardeners in online forums.

Your growing zone matters tremendously. I’ve compiled a shortlist of my favorites by climate zone:

Zone 5-7 Winners:

• Red Maple (Acer rubrum)
• Ginkgo (male varieties only!)
• River Birch

For Narrow Spaces:

• Italian Cypress
• Columnar Oak

Remember to consider overhead utility lines! I once had to painfully remove a beautiful 5-year-old tulip poplar that was heading straight for power lines. Now I always check what’s best for my location before planting.

Caring for Your Driveway Trees

I’ve learned through plenty of trial and error that driveway trees need special attention to thrive while staying well-behaved. Proper care keeps them looking gorgeous without creating headaches like damaged pavement or entangled utility lines.

Watering and Fertilization Tips

I cannot stress enough how critical proper watering is during the first two years after planting your driveway trees.

I water deeply once a week rather than giving frequent shallow sprinkles. This encourages those roots to grow down instead of spreading outward where they might damage your driveway.

For my fast-growing trees like poplars and maples, I use a slow-release fertilizer in early spring. I’ve found this works better than frequent feeding, which can create excessive leafy growth at the expense of strong roots.

I always create a 2-3 inch mulch ring around each tree (but never touching the trunk – that’s a rookie mistake I made years ago!). This keeps lawn mowers away and helps retain moisture without encouraging rot.

Pro tip: For trees like the Red Maple that I planted along my own driveway, I installed slow-drip irrigation bags during hot summer months. These absolute lifesavers slowly release water exactly where needed.

Pruning for Healthy Growth

I learned the hard way that neglecting pruning leads to driveway disasters!

For my beloved Italian Cypress trees, minimal pruning keeps them naturally narrow, but I always remove any branches growing toward the driveway.

The best time I’ve found for pruning most driveway trees is late winter while they’re still dormant. For flowering varieties like my gorgeous Crepe Myrtles, I wait until right after they bloom.

Here’s my simple annual pruning checklist:

• Remove damaged/dead branches (I check after every storm)
• Trim low-hanging branches that might hit vehicles
• Thin crowded areas for better air circulation
• Shape gradually rather than severe cutting

I’m especially careful with my Ginkgo trees as they’ve taught me that excessive pruning can ruin their naturally elegant form. With driveway trees, I focus on creating adequate clearance for vehicles while maintaining each tree’s natural beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Let me tackle some of the questions I get most often about fast-growing driveway trees. After years of planting, pruning, and occasionally talking to my trees (don’t judge!), I’ve gathered some practical insights to share with you.

What varieties of trees can provide quick shade along my driveway but still thrive in zone 5?

In zone 5, I’ve had great success with River Birch trees. Their gorgeous peeling bark adds winter interest, and they shoot up impressively fast—about 2 feet per year in good conditions!

Norway Spruce is another favorite of mine for zone 5 driveways. These evergreens grow about 1-2 feet annually and eventually create magnificent shade. I planted three along my cousin’s driveway six years ago, and they’re already providing significant shade.

Quaking Aspen trees are also excellent choices. Their trembling leaves create the most delightful sound in summer breezes, and they grow quickly in cooler climates. Just be aware they can spread through suckers—I learned this the hard way!

Can you recommend some tree species that would enhance my property’s curb appeal and grow fast?

For jaw-dropping curb appeal, I always suggest Emerald Green Arborvitae. Their perfect columnar shape creates that formal, elegant entrance many homeowners dream about. I planted a line of these along my own driveway, and visitors always comment on how polished it looks.

Leyland Cypress trees grow incredibly fast—3 feet or more per year—and create a stunning green backdrop. The soft, feathery foliage catches light beautifully, especially during golden hour.

River Birch with its multi-stemmed trunk and paper-like bark offers unique visual interest all year round. I’ve noticed property values in my neighborhood seem to get a boost when these beauties grace the front landscape.

Are there affordable, fast-growing trees that can offer me privacy from my neighbours without breaking the bank?

Leyland Cypress has been my budget-friendly privacy superhero for years! Starting from relatively inexpensive saplings, they quickly grow into a dense, living wall. Mine created effective screening in just three growing seasons.

Quaking Aspen trees are another wallet-friendly option. They’re often available at lower prices because they grow so readily. Plus, their white trunks look stunning against any backdrop.

Norway Spruce seedlings are typically quite affordable, and they’re low-maintenance once established. I’ve found they need minimal care beyond occasional watering during establishment.

Among the quick-growing trees, which ones would you suggest for creating a private green cocoon in my backyard?

For creating that magical enclosed feeling, I’ve found nothing beats a grouping of Leyland Cypress. They grow fast in most climate zones and their dense foliage blocks both views and noise—it’s like having green sound barriers!

Emerald Green Arborvitae planted close together (about 3 feet apart) will eventually merge into a solid wall of green. I love how they maintain their rich color even through winter months.

If you prefer a less rigid look, River Birch planted in clusters creates a more natural woodland privacy screen. The dappled light through their canopy creates the most enchanting patterns on the ground.

What are some of the top tree picks for establishing a secluded driveway entrance with lush foliage?

For a truly private driveway entrance, I’ve had clients fall in love with Norway Spruce. Their dense branches start near the ground and create excellent screening all the way up. They hold their needles year-round, ensuring privacy doesn’t disappear in winter.

Emerald Green Arborvitae creates the most elegant, formal entrance when planted in rows. The uniform growth habit gives a polished, intentional look that elevates any property’s entrance.

Leyland Cypress grows so quickly that you’ll have privacy in just a few seasons. I planted some along my sister’s driveway, and within five years, they’d transformed her exposed entrance into a secluded, grand approach.

In your gardening experience, what have been the standout tree species for expedited growth and minimal maintenance?

River Birch has consistently impressed me with its speedy growth and adaptability. It rarely needs pruning and resists most pests and diseases that plague other birches.

Even during our neighborhood’s drought years, my River Birches kept thriving.

I’ve found Quaking Aspen to be almost maintenance-free once established. They grow remarkably fast. Often, they can grow 3-5 feet per year in their youth. After the first year, they rarely need supplemental watering.

Fast-growing trees like Leyland Cypress do require occasional pruning to maintain their shape. But, considering their growth rate, the maintenance-to-benefit ratio is excellent! I check mine just twice a year and do minimal trimming to keep them looking their best.