Name: The Plant Company
Address: 284 Meeanee Road, Meeanee, Napier, 4112, New Zealand
Telephone: 0800 843 752
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fastest growing nz native trees

If you’re looking to add height, shelter, or native beauty to your New Zealand garden in record time, searching for the fastest growing NZ native trees is a smart move. Whether you’re establishing a quick privacy screen, restoring native habitats, or simply eager for lush greenery, choosing robust, speedy species will make all the difference. NZ’s unique environment offers a number of natives that not only shoot up rapidly but also support local biodiversity, attract birds, and handle our climate’s challenges with ease.

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: 12.50 m

Spread: 5.00 m

Flowering time: Spring

Tolerances: Coastal, Hardy

Garden uses: Ponds

Garden styles: Alpine, Coastal, 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 Fastest Growing NZ Native Trees?

Speedy native trees bring instant benefits. They quickly provide shelter from wind, help stabilise soil, and create shade — all key considerations for lifestyle blocks, farms, and urban gardens alike. Importantly, choosing NZ natives ensures your planting is resilient, supports native wildlife, and blends beautifully with local ecosystems. For new developments or reforestation projects, opt for the fastest growing NZ native trees to establish quick coverage and long-lasting structure.

Top Fast-Growing NZ Native Trees for Kiwi Gardens

Explore these standout species, prized across Aotearoa for both their rapid growth and striking appearance:

Plagianthus regius (Ribbonwood)

The iconic Plagianthus regius (Ribbonwood) stands tall as one of the fastest growing NZ native trees. Capable of reaching up to 10 metres in just a few years under ideal conditions, this graceful deciduous tree brings a light, airy feel and delicate white spring blossoms. Its speedy growth makes it a favourite for shelterbelts and native revegetation projects.

Hoheria sextylosa (Lacebark)

Another superb choice is Hoheria sextylosa (Lacebark), appreciated for its profuse white flowers and lush, upright form. This handsome native can surge skywards, often reaching substantial heights in a fraction of the time other trees require. Plant it as a specimen or part of a native mix for quick results in your garden or restoration area.

Sophora chathamica

Also called Chatham Island kōwhai, Sophora chathamica is a quick-growing, small to medium native tree. It bursts into brilliant yellow blooms that attract native birds such as tūī and bellbirds, making it a fast favourite for gardeners keen to support pollinators and enjoy spectacular spring displays.

Myoporum laetum (Ngaio)

If you need a tree with serious shelter and coastal tolerance, Myoporum laetum (Ngaio) is a standout pick. This evergreen can handle wind, salt, and poor soils, all while growing at an impressive rate. It’s especially well-suited for coastal sites or exposed gardens where other trees may struggle.

Knightia excelsa

Unique for its striking foliage and vibrant red brush flowers, Knightia excelsa is both decorative and efficient. While a little more upright and slender than some other species, it’s still one of the fastest growing NZ native trees when given room and nutrients to thrive.

Planting and Caring Tips

To make the most of the fastest growing NZ native trees, site them with care, improve your soil with compost, and water consistently during their establishment phase. Mulching and regular weeding will not only speed their growth but keep them healthy and robust for years to come.

Embrace the beauty, resilience, and rewards of NZ’s most vigorous natives and watch your landscape transform before your eyes.

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 nz native trees

Plagianthus regius (Ribbonwood)

Kunzea robusta

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Why Choose Fastest Growing NZ Native Trees?