Trees are the perfect accessory to any outdoor space, but waiting for them to grow can be a challenge. These four trees will grow at least 1 ft. every year — you’ll be able to see the progress! — and they won’t drop messy fruits or twigs nearby.
Lacebark Elm (Ulmus parvifolia)
Exfoliating bark for winter interest, resistant to Dutch elm disease; full sun; rich, moist soil; 50 ft. tall and wide; cold zones 5 to 9, heat zones 9 to 1
Red Oak (Quercus rubra)
Red fall leaf color; full sun; dry to medium soil; 50 to 75 ft. tall and wide; cold zones 4 to 8, heat zones 8 to 1
River Birch (Betula nigra)
Attractive peeling bark, more disease-resistant than white birches; full sun; moist soil; 50 to 70 ft. tall and wide; cold zones 4 to 9, heat zones 9 to 1
Thornless Honeylocust (Gleditsia triacanthos inermis)
Small, lacy leaves turn bright yellow in fall; full sun; average soil; 50 to 60 ft. tall and wide; cold zones 4 to 9, heat zones 9 to 1