Fast Growing Plants
Fast growing plants are ideal when you need results quickly. Whether you are establishing privacy, filling a new garden bed or softening a bare boundary, choosing the right fast growing plants for Australian conditions ensures strong, reliable growth rather than weak, leggy performance. This collection includes fast growing shrubs, screening plants, climbers and trees suited to a wide range of climates across Australia - from coastal and subtropical regions to temperate and inland areas. When matched to the right soil and climate, these plants establish rapidly, build density and create usable green structure within a shorter timeframe.
Why fast growing plants work well in Australian gardens
Across much of Australia, long growing seasons and warm temperatures support strong plant growth. When irrigation and soil preparation are managed properly, fast growing varieties can transform a space quickly.
In suitable conditions, fast growing plants offer:
- Rapid privacy along boundaries
- Quick canopy development for shade
- Fast coverage of fences and structures
- Efficient filling of new landscape beds
- Earlier wind buffering on exposed blocks
They are particularly useful for new builds where there is little established vegetation and immediate structure is required.
For layered planting, combine fast growing shrubs with selections from our Trees collection to create long-term canopy above lower screening layers.
Where fast growing plants work best
Boundary screening
Fast growing screening plants are widely used along fences to create privacy in the shortest possible time. Correct spacing and regular pruning improve density and long-term structure.
For taller options, explore compatible varieties within our Screening Plants collection.
New garden beds
Large, newly prepared beds can look sparse when planted with slower-growing species. Fast growing shrubs and groundcovers quickly fill gaps and reduce exposed soil.
Pergolas and vertical structures
Fast growing climbers provide quick coverage over trellis and pergolas, softening hard lines and creating shaded spaces.
Wind protection
On exposed sites, rapid growth helps establish wind buffering sooner, protecting more delicate plants in the landscape.
Choosing the right fast growing plants for Australian conditions
Speed alone should not determine plant selection. Climate compatibility and long-term structure remain critical.
Climate and exposure
Subtropical and coastal regions support vigorous growth for many evergreen species. Inland regions require heat tolerance. Cooler southern areas may need frost-resistant varieties.
Match species to your local climate to avoid stress and uneven growth.
Soil preparation
Fast growth requires adequate nutrients and drainage. Poor soil limits performance.
Before planting:
- Loosen compacted soil
- Incorporate compost or organic matter
- Improve drainage in heavy clay
- Ensure irrigation access during establishment
Growth habit and maintenance
Fast growing plants often require more frequent pruning to maintain density and shape. Without maintenance, some varieties can become open or leggy.
Select species suited to your available space and maintenance capacity.
Mature size
Rapid growth does not eliminate the need to plan for mature dimensions. Consider height and width to avoid overcrowding or excessive trimming later.
For lower maintenance alternatives, you may also consider suitable options from our Native Plants collection where climate appropriate.
Practical buying tips
- Define the primary goal - privacy, shade, coverage or wind buffering.
- Measure the planting area and calculate correct spacing based on mature width.
- Plan for ongoing trimming if selecting vigorous hedging varieties.
- Provide consistent watering during the first growing season to support strong root development.
- Combine fast growing plants with longer-term structural species for balanced design.
Fast growing vs long-term structural plants
Fast growing plants deliver early impact but may require more shaping and management over time.
Slower-growing structural species often develop stronger form and longer lifespan but require patience.
Many landscapes benefit from a combination approach - using fast growing plants for early coverage while slower structural trees establish overhead.
Establishing fast growing plants successfully
Early care determines both speed and density.
- Dig planting holes wider than the pot size
- Avoid planting too deeply
- Backfill with improved native soil
- Water deeply at planting
- Apply mulch to conserve moisture
Across most Australian climates, autumn and spring are ideal planting seasons. In warmer regions, winter planting also supports strong establishment.
Frequently asked questions
How fast is considered fast growing?
Growth rates vary by species and climate. In favourable conditions, many fast growing shrubs can establish noticeable height and density within 12 to 24 months.
Do fast growing plants require more maintenance?
Often yes. Rapid growth may require more regular pruning to maintain shape and density.
Can fast growing plants be used for hedging?
Yes. Many hedging species are selected specifically for their rapid vertical growth and dense foliage.
Are fast growing plants suitable for small gardens?
They can be, provided mature width and maintenance requirements are considered before planting.
Will fast growing plants last as long as slower varieties?
Longevity depends on species and maintenance. Some fast growing plants are long-lived, while others are better suited to short- to medium-term screening.
Fast growing plants provide practical solutions for Australian gardens where immediate structure and coverage are required. With correct species selection and proper establishment, they deliver rapid results without compromising long-term performance.
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