Florida’s warm, humid climate and long growing season make it a dream location for growing fruit—but only if you choose the right varieties. The key is to select fast-growing, heat-tolerant fruits that can handle the state’s moisture-rich air, occasional storms, and intense sun.
From the juicy papaya and ever-reliable banana, to tropical delights like dragon fruit, guava, and passionfruit, these fruits grow quickly and produce abundant harvests with just a little care. Many also double as ornamental plants, adding beauty and color to Florida gardens year-round.
Whether you’re planting in the ground or containers, these 18 fast-growing fruit plants are perfect for Florida gardeners looking to enjoy fresh, homegrown sweetness—without the wait.
Mango
The mango’s juicy sweetness makes it a Florida favorite. This tropical delight does well in the state’s warm, humid climate, producing abundant fruit. Planting a mango tree not only promises a bountiful harvest but also adds a touch of the tropics to your garden. The rich, aromatic fruit is perfect for everything from smoothies to salsas. With proper care, mango trees can thrive and provide delicious harvests year after year. These trees enjoy full sunlight and well-drained soil.
Avocado
Avocados are a nutritious powerhouse thriving in Florida’s climate. The creamy fruit is a versatile addition to any kitchen, ideal for everything from guacamole to salads. Avocado trees grow robustly in the heat and humidity, requiring plenty of sunlight and well-drained soil. These trees can grow tall, so make sure to give them space. Regular pruning and pest management ensure healthy growth. Contributing a touch of green to your landscape, the avocado tree is both an aesthetic and culinary delight.
Papaya
Papayas are fast growers, quickly adding a tropical flair to any Florida garden. Known for their sweet, buttery texture, papayas are a breakfast favorite. Plant them in well-drained soil with lots of sun. These trees are relatively low-maintenance and can produce fruit within a year. Their rapid growth and plentiful harvests make them a rewarding choice.
Pineapple
Pineapples are a symbol of tropical bounty. Compact and easy to grow, they do wonderfully in containers or gardens. Pineapple plants thrive under the Florida sun, and with minimal care, they yield juicy fruits. Although they take a couple of years to mature, the wait is well worth it. The sweet, tangy flavor of freshly picked pineapple is incomparable. Their unique appearance adds a charming touch to any garden.
Guava
Guava trees are perfect for Florida’s warm climate, producing a plethora of sweet, aromatic fruits. These trees grow quickly and can be maintained in smaller spaces with regular pruning. Guavas are versatile in the kitchen, perfect for jellies, juices, or just eating fresh. They thrive in full sunlight and prefer well-drained soil. With their delightful fragrance and ease of growth, guavas are a superb addition to any garden.
Banana
Bananas are synonymous with tropical gardens and grow exceptionally well in Florida. Their large, lush leaves add to their appeal. Banana plants need plenty of water and sunlight. They grow rapidly and produce bananas within a year or so. The fruit is a staple in many diets, known for its convenience and nutrition. Their ability to grow in clusters makes them ideal for creating a vibrant, green backdrop.
Passion Fruit
Passion fruit vines are vigorous climbers, perfect for Florida’s warm climate. Their fragrant flowers and luscious fruits are a gardener’s delight. These vines require a sturdy support structure and plenty of sunlight. Once established, they produce a prolific amount of fruit. Passion fruits are tangy and sweet, perfect for juices and desserts. Their exotic appeal and fast growth make them a popular choice among gardeners.
Fig
Figs thrive in Florida, offering their unique texture and flavor to any garden. These trees are relatively easy to grow and maintain, preferring well-drained soil and lots of sun. Figs ripen in the warmer months, providing a sweet addition to summer meals. They can be enjoyed fresh, dried, or in jams. Their historic appeal and the ability to produce fruit in abundance make them a timeless choice for gardeners.
Starfruit
Starfruit, or carambola, is a delightful addition to any Florida garden. Its unique, star-shaped fruit is both visually appealing and tasty. These trees grow well in the state’s climate, needing full sun and well-drained soil. Starfruits offer a crisp, refreshing taste, perfect for salads or as a garnish. They are easy to care for, making them suitable for gardeners of all levels. The combination of beauty and utility makes starfruit a splendid choice.
Lychee
Lychees bring an exotic flair to Florida gardens with their fragrant, juicy fruits. These trees flourish in humid environments, producing fruit that is sweet and slightly tart. Lychees prefer sunny spots and need regular watering. They are a bit slow to establish but reward patience with bountiful harvests. The fruit’s delicate nature and unique taste make it a prized addition to any fruit basket.
Sapodilla
Sapodillas are known for their sweet, caramel-like flavor, making them a unique choice for Florida gardens. These trees are drought-tolerant once established and enjoy the humid climate. They require plenty of sun and can grow tall, offering shade along with fruit. The sapodilla’s hardy nature and distinctive taste make it a valuable addition to any garden setup.
Jackfruit
Jackfruits are the giants of the fruit world, offering a bountiful harvest of sweet flesh. These trees thrive in Florida’s climate, enjoying the heat and moisture. Although large, jackfruit trees can be managed with regular pruning. The fruit is versatile, used in both savory and sweet dishes. Its impressive size and unique flavor profile make it a standout choice for avid gardeners.
Mulberry
Mulberries grow quickly and produce a large quantity of fruit, making them ideal for Florida’s growing season. These trees require minimal care and thrive in well-drained soil with plenty of sunlight. Mulberries are a delicious snack fresh from the tree or can be used in jams and desserts. Their rapid growth and abundant fruiting make them a fantastic choice for those looking to enjoy homegrown fruits.
Dragon Fruit
Dragon fruit plants, with their striking appearance, are a unique addition to Florida gardens. They are low-maintenance and thrive in the state’s sunny climate. The fruit, known for its sweet, mildly tangy taste, is a visual treat as well. Dragon fruits grow on cacti, requiring minimal water and care. Their exotic look and delightful flavor make them a favorite among gardeners seeking something different.
Tamarind
Tamarind trees offer a tangy taste to Florida’s fruit variety. These trees enjoy the sun and can grow quite large, providing shade and fruit. Tamarinds are used in various culinary dishes, offering a unique flavor that enhances both sweet and savory recipes. Their adaptability and distinctive taste make them a wonderful addition to any garden.
Loquat
Loquats, with their sweet, slightly tart flavor, are a delightful fruit to grow in Florida. These trees are hardy and thrive in the state’s climate, requiring full sun and well-drained soil. Loquats are early bloomers, often providing fruit when other trees are still dormant. Their manageable size and delicious fruit make them a great choice for smaller gardens.
Carambola
Carambola, often known as starfruit, adds both beauty and flavor to Florida gardens. The unique fruit is crisp and sweet, perfect for eating fresh or adding to salads. Carambola trees require full sunlight and well-drained soil, thriving in the humid climate. They are low-maintenance, making them accessible to novice gardeners. Their aesthetic appeal and delicious taste make them a garden favorite.
Pomegranate
Pomegranates thrive in Florida, bringing a burst of color and flavor. These shrubs prefer sunny spots and well-drained soil. Pomegranates are known for their jewel-like seeds, adding a tart, refreshing taste to dishes. They are relatively low-maintenance, making them suitable for various garden setups. Their vibrant fruit and health benefits make pomegranates a prized addition.