An oak tree is a great choice if you’re planning your landscape. A good choice. But how quickly can they grow? And when should you expect shade?
The Japanese Evergreen Oak and Nuttall Oak are the fastest-growing oak trees. They can all grow up to 36 inches each year. Healthy oak trees can live between 100 and 600 years depending on their species. They can reach over 100 feet in height.
We will walk you through 12 oak trees that are the fastest growing and provide insight as to the best conditions for each tree. Let’s get started!
Are Oak Trees Fast Growers?
Let’s not get ahead of ourselves. Are oak trees fast-growing? While we know there are many types of oak trees and that some grow faster than others but how does this compare to maple or aspen trees?
Oak trees are slower-growing than other tree species. Poplar can grow up 8 feet in one year, according to some species. The fastest-growing trees are the Aspen, Maple, and Willow trees.
However, that doesn’t mean they shouldn’t be planted! Oak trees are slow-growing but will provide shade, beauty and habitat for wildlife for many years.
The 12 Fastest-Growing Oak Trees
You’ve decided to plant an Oak tree. Now you want to know how long it will take to mature. What time will you get shade? What size will it grow?
We got you covered!
Below is a list of the fastest-growing oak trees and their expected heights. You will want to know which areas each oak tree performs best so that you can plant a tree that will live for many years.
| Search | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tree | Annual Growth | Lifespan | Full Height | Best Hardiness Zone |
| Japanese Evergreen Oak | 36″ | 2,000 Years | 30′ | 9a – 11 |
| Southern Live Oak | 24 – 36″ | 1,000 Years | 50′ | 7b – 10b |
| Valley Oak | 24 – 36″ | 300 Years | 130′ | 7 – 9 |
| Nuttall Oak | 24 – 36″ | 100 Years | 40 – 60′ | 6 – 9 |
| Southern Red Oak | 12 – 36″ | 150 Years | 60 – 80′ | 6 – 9 |
| Water Oak | 24″ | 60-80 Years | 100′ | 6 – 9 |
| Pin Oak | 24″ | 120 Years | 60 – 70′ | 4 – 8 |
| Coast Live Oak | 24″ | 250 Years | 70′ | 9 – 10 |
| Canyon Live Oak | 24″ | 150 Years | 100′ | 8 – 10 |
| Laurel Oak | 24″ | 50-70 Years | 100′ | 6 – 9 |
| Red Oak | 24″ | 300-500 Years | 90 – 140′ | 4 – 8 |
| Willow Oak | 13 – 24″ | 100 Years | 40 – 60′ | 5 – 9 |
*growth can vary depending on conditions
Let’s take a closer at each one of these oaks to see which one is best suited for our yard, park or other space.
Side note If you’re curious, you can see our piece how oak trees live here.
Japanese Evergreen Oak
The first oak tree to grow quickly is not native North America, contrary to the name. It can live for millennia.
Although the Japanese Everygreen Oak can grow to 36 inches per annum, it only grows to 30 feet at its maximum height. It is a fast-growing tree, but it will take 10-20 years to reach its full height.
This oak is ideal for small yards. This oak can still provide shade and branch out to a maximum of 20 feet. Your Japanese Evergreen Oak will not get many compliments. It is not the most beautiful oak, and it will not change color in the fall.
Southern Live Oak
The southern live oak is a symbol of southern America. It can grow as tall or wider than it can, sometimes even more so. You’ve likely seen the iconic, droopy-branched Southern Live Oaks with Spanish moss hanging from their branches.
Southern Live Oaks grow between 24 to 36 inches per annum, making them one the fastest-growing oak trees. The Southern Live Oak can grow up to 50 feet in height, and sometimes reach 80 feet. But the best thing about them is their spread! The tree can grow up to 120 feet in width!
You’re talking about a shade tree?
Southern Live Oaks require lots of space for their growth. As they age, roots may reach the surface and cause damage to roads and sidewalks. They can tolerate drought and most other conditions. They are resistant to pests and tree diseases.
Valley Oak
California’s native tree is the Valley Oak. It is large oak tree that is considered to be one of the fastest growing oaks. It measures its life expectancy in years, just like many oaks.
The tree can grow between 24 and 36 inches each year and can reach up to 130 feet in height. This tree is an excellent shade tree because of its impressive height and 50-foot canopy. Its branches will eventually reach the ground, and can spread out over time.
Valley Oaks require full sun and a larger area than 10 feet to thrive. Valley Oaks can grow up to 10 feet tall according to the University of North Carolina.
Nuttall Oak
The Nuttall Oak is a taller, more upright tree than the Valley Oak and Southern Live Oak. It also has a smaller spread which provides less shade.
The Nuttall Oak can grow between 24 and 36 inches per annum and can reach heights of 40-60 feet. Because it is easy to transplant, and because it grows quickly while still young, the Nuttall Oak is a favourite tree nursery.
Another wonderful characteristic of the Nuttall Oak is its ability to tolerate a wide range of soil conditions. This oak is tolerant to poor soil conditions and varying pH levels.
Southern Red Oak
The Southern Red Oak is not to be confused with Southern Live Oak. It is an impressive oak tree that grows quickly and is often called Spanish Oak.
Southern Red Oak can grow anywhere from 12 to 36 inches per annum, reaching heights between 60 and 80 feet. It can live up to 150 years, and it is a shade tree that can spread up to 70 feet.
The Southern Red Oak provides shade and is resistant to pests and diseases that can plague other types of oak trees. It thrives in full sun, well-drained soil that isn’t clay. The acorns won’t fall off but they will be a nuisance to your yard and attract other creatures. ).
Water Oak
The water oak, despite its name, does not need wet conditions to thrive. However, it loves growing near streams and water sources. Although it is native to the southeast, it can be found all across the United States, from Washington to New Jersey.
Water oaks typically grow about 2 feet per year and reach 100 feet in height. The water oak is a shorter-lived species with a life expectancy of 60 to 80 year. This tree provides shade and can spread up to 70 feet.
If you have ever wondered what an acorn looks like, it is likely that you are picturing a water oak. They are dark brown with a ridged brown crown. Water Oaks are great for having around the fall, as they will turn to bright yellow when the seasons change.
Pin Oak
Pin oaks are a common tree around humans. These trees are often found in parks, along streets and as parking lot islands. They can also be planted in yards. Why is this tree so popular?
The Pin Oak is very popular because of its pyramid-shaped shape and beautiful fall colors. This tree is beautiful to look at even in winter, and the roots are not susceptible to any problems.
Pin Oaks can grow to a maximum height of 60-70 feet and average 24 inches in annual growth. The Pin Oak can provide shade with a spread of up 40 feet. However, it is susceptible to branches breaking off.
Pin Oaks are a food source for deer, squirrels and other mammals through their acorns. This is why they are such great trees for parks.
Coast Live Oak
Coast Live Oak is also known as California Live Oak and Encina. The shape and appearance of this tree are similar to that of the southern live oak. It has a large trunk and branches that reach the ground occasionally.
Coast Live Oaks grow at a rate of two feet per annum and reach a maximum height of 70 feet. The Coast Live Oak is a very long-lasting oak with an average lifespan of two centuries. It can spread up to 70 feet.
This tree is a wonderful tree that provides shelter and food for squirrels and birds as well as other tree-using animals. Although it is an important tree in California (its native habitat), it is also susceptible to more serious tree diseases, such as sudden oak mortality.
Canyon Live Oak
Canyon live oaks, as their name implies, are found high up in mountainous areas. Its range is from Oregon to Arizona on the west coast. The little tree can live up to 9,000 feet.
Canyon Live Oaks reach heights of up to 100 feet and grow at a rate of about 2 feet per year. These trees can only grow to 20-60 feet in height. These trees are usually twice as tall as they are wide and can look more like a shrub than a tree in certain cases.
These trees are hardy and can thrive in many soil types, making them appealing to homeowners in drought-prone areas like California. These trees are small and charming, but they can also provide shelter and food for wildlife.
Laurel Oak
The Laurel Oak, a tall and proud oak that is native to eastern Texas and the southeast, is a fast-growing oak. Although it isn’t as spectacular as the Pin Oak, its leaves change color in fall.
Laurel Oaks can grow to a maximum of two feet each year and reach a height of over 100 feet. It has a spread of 45 feet, which is smaller than you would expect for its height. Another short-lived oak, it has a life span of between 50 and 70 years.
These trees are more likely to have the beautiful acorns that attract wildlife like squirrels and deer. The branches can break easily so make sure to take care when planting these trees next to your home or outbuildings.
Red Oak
Red Oaks are beautiful oak trees in fall. They have vibrant reds and oranges. Trees aren’t just about their looks. Red oaks can thrive in many conditions, but prefer well-drained soil.
These majestic trees can grow to as high as 140 feet and two feet each year. These trees can live for up to 500 years and provide shade and wildlife viewing opportunities for generations. Red Oaks are a popular choice in tree nurseries as they are easy to transplant.
Willow Oak
Willow Oak is our last fast-growing oak. The Willow Oak is one of the most majestic oaks, and it’s a valuable landscape piece because of its ornamental value.
Willow Oaks can grow to between 13 and 24 inches in height each year. This oak is one of the shortest, and can reach a height of 60 feet. It can live up to 100 years and displays beautiful fall colors in yellow and red.
Willow Oaks are great shade trees, and they’re very appealing to small animals and birds. They are easy to transplant and require minimal upkeep. Enjoy this magnificent tree, so relax and enjoy it!
What Is The Best Oak Tree To Plant?
You’re making the right choice if you decide to plant an oak tree. Oak trees are sturdy, robust trees that will last. Oak trees provide shade and shelter on hot summer days for both you and the wildlife who depend on them.
Oak trees can take a while to grow, but they are easy to maintain and will be part of your property for many generations.
Which oak tree is best? Which oak tree should you plant?
This is a difficult question to answer as there are many types of oak trees. Each tree has its own characteristics. You’ll need to answer a few questions to get to the bottom of it.
For more information on this topic, please visit our guide to the best oak tree plants here.
What Are You Looking For In An Oak Tree?
Are you thinking of an oak tree that you can shade in summer? Are you looking for an ornamental tree to make a statement for your guests? Perhaps you are looking for one that is vibrant in fall colors?
Live Oaks make a great shade tree choice if you are looking for one. These huge trees have large trunks and drooping leaves that can touch the ground. They also provide impressive shade with some varieties reaching over 100 feet.
Need to quickly get shade? The Nuttall Oak and Japanese Evergreen Oak are both faster-growing oak trees. These oak trees will grow to about 3 feet each year and are the fastest-growing.
Looking for an oak tree with stunning fall leaves? Red, Red, and Black Oak trees, as well as Pin and Sawtooth Oak trees, are all excellent choices. These trees will change from being green to the autumn colors of our favourite reds, oranges and yellows as the seasons change.
Are you interested in planting White, Red, or Black Oak Trees? Then check out our guide to planting Oak Trees in Your Backyard .
What about tiny yards? Don’t let the name of the mighty oak scare your eyes. There are many options available for small yards. There are many great options for smaller yards, including the Pin, Nuttall and Japanese Evergreen Oak. These trees can grow to a maximum height of 3.5m and can be grown in small spaces.
I want an oak tree that looks great. This oak tree is a great choice for fall decor and will be a big hit with your guests.
How about cold climates? It can be difficult to find trees that can withstand the harshest conditions in northern areas of the United States. Scarlet Oaks, White Oaks, Swamp White Oaks, Bur Oaks, and Black Oaks are the best oak trees for cold climates. All of these trees can survive in zone 3 hardiness, which can tolerate temperatures as low as 40 degrees F.
Hot climates: Texas and Florida are the three hottest states in America. What oaks are able to withstand the hottest temperatures of 100 degrees Fahrenheit? Myrtle Oaks, Cork Oaks, Live Oaks, Holm Oaks, and Japanese Evergreen Oak Trees all can survive in temperatures above 100°F.
That’s About It!
This is all we have on the fastest-growing oak trees. Here are the top 12 fastest-growing oak trees.
- Japanese Evergreen Oak
- Southern Live Oak
- Valley Oak
- Nuttall Oak
- Southern Red Oak
- Water Oak
- Pin Oak
- Coast Live Oak
- Canyon Live Oak
- Laurel Oak
- Red Oak
- Willow Oak
Depending on the type of oak tree that you’re looking for, consider where hardiness zone it grows in, how PH conditions it requires, its maintenance requirements, and how much space it requires.
You can then choose the oak tree which will thrive in your particular situation. After a few years of hard work, you will be able to relax and enjoy a shade tree that is beautiful and stoic for many years.