Name: The Plant Company
Address: 284 Meeanee Road, Meeanee, Napier, 4112, New Zealand
Telephone: 0800 843 752
Price range: Contact Us
Rating: 4.8/5

fastest growing native trees nz

If you're searching for the fastest growing native trees NZ gardeners love, you're in the right place. New Zealand's diverse climate and soils are perfect for establishing native trees that not only bring beauty and biodiversity but also rapidly transform your garden or property. Whether you're creating a shelterbelt, looking to restore native bush, or simply want instant landscape impact, there are plenty of native species known for their exceptional growth rates. On this page, we'll explore some of the quickest growers, their unique features, and how they can thrive in your outdoor space.

Plagianthus regius as a small tree in a garden.

Plagianthus regius (Ribbonwood)

Plagianthus regius, commonly known as Ribbonwood or Manatu, is one of New Zealand’s fastest-growing native trees. It can reach 10–15 metres tall and is recognised for its graceful, layered foliage and slender form. In the spring, it produces masses of small, fragrant, cream-coloured flowers that attract birds and insects.

Buy Plagianthus regius (Ribbonwood)

From $23.39

Suited to regions: All regions

Plant type: Trees

Height: 5.00 m

Spread: 4.00 m

Flowering time: Spring

Tolerances: Coastal, Hardy

Garden uses: Ponds

Garden styles: Alpine, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Frontyard, Modern, Native

Kunzea robusta

Kunzea robusta (White Tea Tree) is a fast growing NZ native tree known for its fine foliage and masses of small white flowers that attract bees and pollinators. This hardy plant thrives in a wide range of conditions and is ideal for shelter, revegetation, and feature planting.

Buy Kunzea robusta

From $8.97

Suited to regions: All regions

Plant type: Trees

Height: 8.00 m

Spread: 4.00 m

Flowering time: Summer

Tolerances: Coastal, Extended dry periods, Hardy, Wet, Wind

Garden uses: Hedging, Ponds, Screening

Garden styles: Alpine, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Formal, Frontyard, Mediterranean, Modern, Native, Riparian

Why Choose Fast Growing Native Trees?

Fast-growing native trees are a go-to choice for New Zealanders eager to enjoy quick results. They provide crucial shade, habitat for wildlife, and help with privacy screening in record time. More importantly, they are adapted to local conditions, making them lower maintenance and more resilient to pests and diseases compared to many exotics. Selecting the fastest growing native trees NZ offers is a sustainable way to future-proof your landscape.

Top Fastest Growing Native Trees NZ

Plagianthus regius (Ribbonwood)

One of the fastest growing options, Plagianthus regius (Ribbonwood) is prized for its upright form and generous canopy. This deciduous tree can put on impressive annual growth, often reaching substantial height within just a few years. It's a fantastic choice for shelterbelts, revegetation projects, and gardens seeking quick vertical structure.

Hoheria sextylosa (Lacebark)

For those wanting both speed and beauty, Hoheria sextylosa (Lacebark) is a stand-out native. This evergreen tree grows rapidly and features a profusion of delicate white flowers in summer, attracting bees and birds. Its tolerance to wind and tough conditions makes it ideal for urban gardens and coastal sites.

Sophora chathamica

The lush, fast-growing Sophora chathamica, or coastal kōwhai, is renowned for its bright yellow flowers and quick establishment. This tree not only adds a pop of colour but also supports the native tui and bellbird populations. Its resilience to wind and salt makes it perfect for a wide range of New Zealand locations.

Myoporum laetum (Ngaio)

For shelter and speedy coverage, Myoporum laetum (Ngaio) is unbeatable. This tough evergreen is a classic for coastal and urban planting, renowned for its dense foliage and ability to withstand salt-laden winds. It provides valuable bird habitat and is excellent for erosion control.

Knightia excelsa

If you desire a unique fast-grower, Knightia excelsa, or rewarewa, is an excellent option. With its slender, upright habit and striking red flowers, this tree quickly grows into an elegant specimen suitable for shelter or as a feature in native gardens.

How to Get the Best Results

To maximise the growth of these fastest growing native trees NZ offers, choose a site with good soil preparation, regular watering (especially during establishment), and minimal competition from weeds. Mulching will help retain moisture and suppress weed growth. Using a mix of fast and slower growing natives is often the best approach for a sustainable, layered landscape.

Explore Our Range of Fast Growing Native Trees

Ready to plant the fastest growing native trees NZ has to offer? Browse our collection, including Plagianthus regius (Ribbonwood), Hoheria sextylosa (Lacebark), Sophora chathamica, Myoporum laetum (Ngaio), and Knightia excelsa. These trees are proven performers that will quickly transform any landscape into a thriving, native habitat. Let us help you choose the best plants for your specific needs, so you can enjoy the benefits of New Zealand's fast-growing native trees in no time.

Contact us

Whether you need assistance finding the plant you’re looking for or you simply want to know more about who we are and what we do, we invite you to get in touch with us today. A member of The Plant Company team will get back in touch as soon as possible.

fastest growing native trees nz

Plagianthus regius (Ribbonwood)

Kunzea robusta

Did you find what you are looking for?

Why Choose Fast Growing Native Trees?