Whether you’re in a rush for a lush green space or just love to propagate quick-growing plants, we’ve got the best on the list! Relax, take your time, and spare a few minutes to go over our list of fast-growing houseplants!
Bamboo
| Factor | Information |
| Ease of Growth | Moderate ●●○○○ |
| Scientific Name | Bambusoideae |
| Growth Rate | Fast (can grow up to 3 feet or more per day) |
| Indoor/Outdoor | Both |
| USDA Zone | Varies (dependent on species) |
| Unique Features | Tall, woody, perennial grass with jointed stems. |
| Maintenance | Low |
| Mature Plant Size | Varies (dependent on species) |
| Possible Issues | Invasive in some regions, containment advised. |
Bamboo is a versatile and rapidly growing plant suitable for both indoor and outdoor settings. It’s known for its impressive growth rate, making it ideal for privacy screens, windbreaks, or decorative greenery.
Containment measures, such as root barriers, may be necessary to prevent unwanted spread. While bamboo prefers full sun, it can tolerate partial shade and adapts well to various soil types, thriving in well-draining soil.
Sunflower
| Factor | Information |
| Ease of Growth | Easy ●○○○○ |
| Scientific Name | Helianthus annuus |
| Growth Rate | Fast (can grow up to 1 foot or more per week) |
| Indoor/Outdoor | Both (Grows better outdoors) |
| USDA Zone | 4-9 |
| Unique Features | Large, yellow flower heads. |
| Maintenance | Low |
| Mature Plant Size | 3-15 feet tall, depending on the variety |
| Possible Issues | Susceptible to mildew, aphids, and birds. |
Sunflowers are loved for their iconic yellow blooms and can grow over a foot per week in optimal conditions. They’re pretty much low-maintenance, needing regular watering and occasional deadheading for continuous blooming.
Regular watering is essential, especially during dry periods, but they can tolerate some drought. With sunny blooms that rotate with the sun’s movement, sunflowers are perfect for borders, backdrops, or standalone features.
Sweet Potato Vine
| Factor | Information |
| Ease of Growth | Easy ●○○○○ |
| Scientific Name | Ipomoea batatas |
| Growth Rate | Fast (vines can spread several feet per week) |
| Indoor/Outdoor | Both |
| USDA Zone | 9-11 |
| Unique Features | Trailing vines with heart-shaped leaves. |
| Maintenance | Moderate |
| Mature Plant Size | Varies (dependent on growing conditions) |
| Possible Issues | Prone to pests, occasional trimming needed. |
Sweet Potato Vine is a popular, easy-to-grow plant known for its lush trailing vines and heart-shaped leaves. The vines can spread several feet per week, making it great for ground cover, hanging baskets, or cascading in mixed planters.
Preferring full sun but tolerating partial shade, it needs well-draining soil and consistent moisture. Generally low-maintenance, occasional trimming controls growth and maintains shape, especially when grown indoors.
Marigold
| Factor | Information |
| Ease of Growth | Easy ●○○○○ |
| Scientific Name | Tagetes |
| Growth Rate | Moderate to fast (germinates quickly) |
| Indoor/Outdoor | Both |
| USDA Zone | 2-11, depending on the variety |
| Unique Features | Bright, colorful flowers, aromatic foliage. |
| Maintenance | Low |
| Mature Plant Size | Varies (dependent on the variety) |
| Possible Issues | Susceptible to spider mites and aphids. |
Marigolds are one of the go-to plants in gardens, not just for looks but also for keeping pests at bay. They’re easy to grow and grow reasonably fast, sprouting quickly to bring color to gardens.
Whether in flower beds, pots, or hanging out with veggies, marigolds are adaptable. You can plant them inside or outside, and they’ll thrive in different climates and soil types.
Nasturtium
| Factor | Information |
| Ease of Growth | Easy ●○○○○ |
| Scientific Name | Tropaeolum majus |
| Growth Rate | Moderate to fast (spreading vines) |
| Indoor/Outdoor | Both |
| USDA Zone | 2-11 |
| Unique Features | Round, distinctive leaves and vibrant flowers. |
| Maintenance | Low |
| Mature Plant Size | 8-12 inches tall (dwarf varieties) to 10 feet or more (climbing varieties) |
| Possible Issues | Resistant to pests, occasional deadheading. |
Nasturtiums, with their distinctive round leaves and vivid flowers, make them a hit – whether indoors or outdoors. Known for their medium to fast growth, these plants sport vines that can spread on the ground or climb high.
Easy to handle, nasturtiums like well-drained soil and adapt to different light, from full sun to partial shade. A standout feature? Nasturtiums stand strong against many pests, making them a great garden choice.
Zinnia
| Factor | Information |
| Ease of Growth | Easy ●○○○○ |
| Scientific Name | Zinnia elegans |
| Growth Rate | Fast (blooms within weeks of planting) |
| Indoor/Outdoor | Both (Grows better outdoors) |
| USDA Zone | 3-10 |
| Unique Features | Colorful, daisy-like flowers in various shapes. |
| Maintenance | Low to moderate |
| Mature Plant Size | 6 inches to 4 feet, depending on the variety |
| Possible Issues | Susceptible to mildew in humid conditions. |
Zinnias are daisy-like flowers with a speedy growth rate, typically blooming within weeks and offering quick bursts of color. Zinnias can get a bit picky about soil and light, loving well-drained soil and basking in full sun.
Maintenance is a breeze, with occasional deadheading for continuous blooming. The charm of zinnias lies in their diverse flower shapes and colors, perfect for flower beds, borders, or containers.
Morning Glory
| Factor | Information |
| Ease of Growth | Easy ●○○○○ |
| Scientific Name | Ipomoea tricolor |
| Growth Rate | Fast (vines can grow several feet in a week) |
| Indoor/Outdoor | Both (Grows better outdoors) |
| USDA Zone | 3-10 |
| Unique Features | Trumpet-shaped flowers in various colors. |
| Maintenance | Low |
| Mature Plant Size | 6-10 feet tall, depending on the variety |
| Possible Issues | Can be invasive, may require support for climbing. |
Morning Glory is known for its trumpet-shaped flowers in a variety of colors and is loved for its easy growth, with vines shooting up several feet per week. Perfect for covering trellises or fences, Morning Glory shines outdoors, adapting well to different climates.
Morning Glory’s unique trumpet-shaped flowers open in the morning and close later on. While easy to care for, be mindful of its potential invasiveness, and provide support for climbing.
Radish
| Factor | Information |
| Ease of Growth | Easy ●○○○○ |
| Scientific Name | Raphanus sativus |
| Growth Rate | Fast (mature in about 3-4 weeks) |
| Indoor/Outdoor | Both |
| USDA Zone | Annual |
| Unique Features | Edible roots, various colors and shapes. |
| Maintenance | Low |
| Mature Plant Size | 6-24 inches, depending on the variety |
| Possible Issues | Susceptible to pests like flea beetles. |
Radishes are celebrated for their edible roots and versatility in both indoor and outdoor settings. Just keep the soil consistently moist with regular watering, and maintenance is a breeze for a fruitful harvest.
The unique feature? Their edible roots, available in various colors and shapes. Sizes vary, with different varieties ranging from 6 to 24 inches.
Cosmos
| Factor | Information |
| Ease of Growth | Easy ●○○○○ |
| Scientific Name | Cosmos bipinnatus |
| Growth Rate | Fast (blooms within 7-10 weeks from seeding) |
| Indoor/Outdoor | Both |
| USDA Zone | Annual |
| Unique Features | Fern-like foliage, daisy-like flowers. |
| Maintenance | Low |
| Mature Plant Size | 1-6 feet tall, depending on the variety |
| Possible Issues | Few pest problems, occasional deadheading. |
Cosmosis is often grown for its fern-like leaves and daisy-like blooms. Its easy-going nature makes Cosmos a top pick for gardeners, showing off its colorful blooms within a speedy period from seeding.
Just keep the soil consistently moist with regular watering, and maintenance is a breeze. A bit of deadheading now and then encourages a continuous display of blooms and extends the flowering fiesta.
Chia
| Factor | Information |
| Ease of Growth | Easy ●○○○○ |
| Scientific Name | Salvia hispanica |
| Growth Rate | Moderate |
| Indoor/Outdoor | Both |
| USDA Zone | Annual |
| Unique Features | Edible seeds, herbaceous plant. |
| Maintenance | Low |
| Mature Plant Size | 2-3 feet tall |
| Possible Issues | Few pest problems, occasional thinning. |
Yes, you read it right – the seed that’s recently made headlines for its health benefits comes from a fast-growing plant. Whether you’re nurturing it indoors or outdoors, chia stands out as the go-to choice for both gardeners and health enthusiasts.
Chia’s easy-going growth makes it a great addition for gardeners with its moderate growth rate. Being an annual plant, it happily fits into any climate without being confined to specific USDA zones.
Basil
| Factor | Information |
| Ease of Growth | Easy ●○○○○ |
| Scientific Name | Ocimum basilicum |
| Growth Rate | Moderate to fast |
| Indoor/Outdoor | Both |
| USDA Zone | Annual |
| Unique Features | Fragrant leaves, culinary herb. |
| Maintenance | Low to moderate |
| Mature Plant Size | 12-24 inches tall, depending on the variety |
| Possible Issues | Susceptible to pests like aphids and whiteflies. |
Basil easily stands out as the versatile culinary herb that effortlessly wins hearts with its fragrant leaves. Whether you’re cultivating it indoors or outdoors, basil remains a favorite among both gardeners and culinary enthusiasts.
Basil’s aromatic leaves, a culinary staple that elevates countless dishes, especially in Italian cuisine. Though relatively hardy, basil might encounter pests like aphids and whiteflies.
Lettuce
| Factor | Information |
| Ease of Growth | Easy ●○○○○ |
| Scientific Name | Lactuca sativa |
| Growth Rate | Moderate |
| Indoor/Outdoor | Both |
| USDA Zone | Annual |
| Unique Features | Edible leaves, cool-season crop. |
| Maintenance | Low |
| Mature Plant Size | 6-12 inches tall, depending on the variety |
| Possible Issues | Susceptible to pests like aphids and slugs. |
Your go-to leafy green vegetable is easy to grow and a culinary mainstay in salads and various dishes, whether cultivated indoors or outdoors. As a cool-season crop, lettuce reaches varying mature sizes, with different varieties ranging from 6-12 inches in height.
Flexible with different soils and light conditions, lettuce thrives best in cooler temperatures. Maintenance leans towards the low side, with occasional thinning to ensure proper spacing and prevent overcrowding.
Cress
| Factor | Information |
| Ease of Growth | Easy ●○○○○ |
| Scientific Name | Lepidium sativum |
| Growth Rate | Fast (ready to harvest in 15-20 days) |
| Indoor/Outdoor | Both |
| USDA Zone | Annual |
| Unique Features | Peppery-flavored leaves, quick maturation. |
| Maintenance | Low |
| Mature Plant Size | 6-12 inches tall, depending on the variety |
| Possible Issues | Few pest problems, occasional thinning. |
Cress leaves carry a peppery kick, making it a distinctive addition to salads and sandwiches. With mature sizes varying, different varieties of cress reach heights of 6-12 inches.
Whether you’re growing it indoors or outdoors, cress proves a favored choice for salads and garnishes, boasting a speedy maturation. Cress is versatile, thriving in different soil types and light conditions, with a preference for cooler temperatures.
Dill
| Factor | Information |
| Ease of Growth | Easy ●○○○○ |
| Scientific Name | Anethum graveolens |
| Growth Rate | Moderate to fast |
| Indoor/Outdoor | Both |
| USDA Zone | Annual |
| Unique Features | Feathery, aromatic leaves, culinary herb. |
| Maintenance | Low |
| Mature Plant Size | 2-3 feet tall |
| Possible Issues | Attracts pests like aphids and spider mites. |
Dill stands out in the garden and in the kitchen for its flavorful and aromatic feathery leaves. Whether you’re growing it indoors or outdoors, dill is a sought-after choice for seasoning various dishes, particularly in pickling.
Dill is versatile, thriving in different soil types and light conditions, with a preference for full sun. Maintenance is generally low, occasionally involving pruning to foster bushier growth and deter flowering, as the leaves are most flavorful before this stage.
Catnip
| Factor | Information |
| Ease of Growth | Easy ●○○○○ |
| Scientific Name | Nepeta cataria |
| Growth Rate | Moderate |
| Indoor/Outdoor | Both |
| USDA Zone | 3-9 |
| Unique Features | Aromatic leaves, attractive to cats. |
| Maintenance | Low |
| Mature Plant Size | 2-3 feet tall |
| Possible Issues | Attracts cats, may become invasive. |
If you have cats, then you know that catnip is a great addition to your garden and home due to its aromatic leaves that leave felines fascinated. This is because its aromatic leaves contain compounds that cause cats to roll, rub, and delight in playful antics.
Catnip is adaptable to varying soil types and light conditions while thriving under full sun to partial shade. Maintenance is generally low, involving occasional pruning to encourage bushier growth.
Peppermint
| Factor | Information |
| Ease of Growth | Easy ●○○○○ |
| Scientific Name | Mentha × piperita |
| Growth Rate | Fast |
| Indoor/Outdoor | Both |
| USDA Zone | 3-11 |
| Unique Features | Aromatic leaves, culinary and medicinal uses. |
| Maintenance | Moderate |
| Mature Plant Size | 1-2 feet tall |
| Possible Issues | Invasive, prone to rust disease. |
The aromatic peppermint herb is cherished and grown for both culinary and medicinal purposes. Whether you’re cultivating it indoors or outdoors, peppermint stands out for its invigorating flavor and versatile applications in food, teas, and traditional medicine.
Peppermint is pretty versatile in different soil types and light conditions. With mature sizes typically reaching 1-2 feet tall, the herb can be invasive, spreading through underground runners and potentially requiring containment measures.
Sage
| Factor | Information |
| Ease of Growth | Easy ●○○○○ |
| Scientific Name | Salvia officinalis |
| Growth Rate | Moderate |
| Indoor/Outdoor | Both |
| USDA Zone | 5-9 |
| Unique Features | Aromatic leaves, culinary and medicinal uses. |
| Maintenance | Low to moderate |
| Mature Plant Size | 1-2 feet tall |
| Possible Issues | Prone to root rot in poorly-drained soil. |
Regardless of whether it’s cultivated indoors or outdoors, sage is a favored choice, celebrated for its earthy flavor and diverse uses. Beyond its culinary applications, sage is recognized for its medicinal uses and potential health benefits.
While sage is generally hardy, make sure there’s well-draining soil to prevent root rot concerns. Maintenance is in the low to moderate category, involving occasional pruning to shape the plant and stimulate bushier growth.
Thyme
| Factor | Information |
| Ease of Growth | Easy ●○○○○ |
| Scientific Name | Thymus vulgaris |
| Growth Rate | Moderate |
| Indoor/Outdoor | Both |
| USDA Zone | 5-9 |
| Unique Features | Aromatic leaves, culinary and medicinal uses. |
| Maintenance | Low |
| Mature Plant Size | 6-12 inches tall, depending on the variety |
| Possible Issues | Drought-tolerant but may suffer in waterlogged soil. |
Thyme adapts well to different soil types and light conditions though it flourishes best in full sun. It is regularly grown for its fragrant leaves used in various culinary and medicinal applications.
While regular watering is essential during dry spells, thyme’s drought-tolerant nature means it can suffer in waterlogged soil. Maintenance requirements are generally low, involving occasional pruning to maintain a compact shape and encourage fuller growth.
Spider Plant
| Factor | Information |
| Ease of Growth | Easy ●○○○○ |
| Scientific Name | Chlorophytum comosum |
| Growth Rate | Moderate |
| Indoor/Outdoor | Primarily Indoor |
| USDA Zone | Not applicable |
| Unique Features | Arching leaves, offsets or “pups”. |
| Maintenance | Low |
| Mature Plant Size | 12-18 inches tall, with arching leaves |
| Possible Issues | Prone to tip burn, sensitive to fluoride in water. |
The Spider Plant is known for its graceful leaves and the ability to produce offsets or “pups.” Typically grown as houseplants, spider plants are beloved among indoor plant enthusiasts.
Maintenance is generally undemanding, with regular watering needed to maintain consistently moist soil without waterlogging. Spider plants are usually grown in hanging baskets or as potted plants.
Snake Plant
| Factor | Information |
| Ease of Growth | Easy ●○○○○ |
| Scientific Name | Sansevieria trifasciata |
| Growth Rate | Slow to moderate |
| Indoor/Outdoor | Primarily Indoor |
| USDA Zone | Not applicable |
| Unique Features | Tall, upright leaves with unique patterns. |
| Maintenance | Low |
| Mature Plant Size | 2-4 feet tall, depending on the variety |
| Possible Issues | Sensitive to overwatering, can tolerate low light. |
Mainly cultivated indoors as houseplants, snake plants have gained popularity among indoor plant enthusiasts. Distinguished by their upright leaves showcasing unique patterns, these stiff-leaved plants require minimal maintenance.
They’re known for their resilience and ability to withstand neglect. Snake plants are recognized for their air-purifying attributes that contribute to improved indoor air quality.
