Quickstick (Gliricidia): A Fast-Growing Tropical Tree for Warm Climate Gardens
If you’re looking for a fast-growing tree that can quickly establish shade and structure in your tropical or subtropical garden, quickstick might catch your attention. This deciduous tree, known botanically as Gliricidia, has earned its common name from its remarkably quick growth rate and ability to root easily from cuttings – literally like planting a stick that springs to life.
What is Quickstick?
Quickstick is a perennial tree that typically grows to impressive heights of 13-16 feet or more, though under certain conditions it may develop a shorter, multi-stemmed growth form. As a member of the legume family, this tropical tree brings both beauty and function to warm-climate landscapes.
Where Does Quickstick Grow?
Originally native to Central America and northern South America, quickstick is now a non-native species that has established itself in several U.S. regions. You’ll find it growing in Florida, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Palau, where it reproduces on its own and has become part of the naturalized plant community.
Is Quickstick Right for Your Garden?
Whether quickstick belongs in your landscape depends on your specific needs and location. Here are some considerations:
Reasons You Might Choose Quickstick:
- Extremely fast growth rate for quick shade and screening
- Attractive pink to white flowers that draw pollinators
- Drought tolerance once established
- Easy propagation from cuttings
- Suitable for tropical and subtropical gardens (USDA zones 9b-11)
Reasons to Consider Alternatives:
- As a non-native species, it doesn’t support local ecosystems as effectively as native plants
- Limited to very warm climates only
- May naturalize and spread beyond intended areas
Native Alternatives to Consider
Since quickstick isn’t native to the United States, consider these native alternatives that can provide similar benefits:
- Southern live oak (Quercus virginiana) for Florida gardens
- Bald cypress (Taxodium distichum) for wetland areas
- Native coral bean (Erythrina herbacea) for flowering interest
Growing Quickstick Successfully
If you decide quickstick fits your landscape needs, here’s how to grow it successfully:
Planting Conditions:
- Climate: Only suitable for USDA hardiness zones 9b-11
- Sunlight: Prefers full sun exposure
- Soil: Thrives in well-drained soils but adapts to various soil types
- Water: Drought tolerant once established, but appreciates regular water during establishment
Care Tips:
- Space adequately – remember this tree can grow quite large
- Prune as needed to maintain desired shape
- Watch for naturalization beyond your intended planting area
- Mulch around young trees to retain moisture and suppress weeds
Landscape Uses
Quickstick works well in tropical landscape designs where you need:
- Fast-establishing shade trees
- Windbreaks or privacy screens
- Boundary plantings
- Specimen trees in large landscapes
The Bottom Line
Quickstick lives up to its name as a fast-growing tree that can quickly fill a niche in warm-climate gardens. While it offers practical benefits like rapid shade and attractive flowers, remember that choosing native plants typically provides greater ecological value. If you do plant quickstick, monitor its growth and spread to ensure it stays where you want it. For the healthiest local ecosystem, consider native alternatives that can provide similar benefits while supporting local wildlife and maintaining the natural character of your region.
