Fast growing medium sized evergreen tree??

[CambsDad]

Could someone please recommend an evergreen tree that will grow quickly in the uk to about 30ft (but no more). We would prefer not to have a conifer but maybe there is no alternative?

thanks in advance

[Hawkwalk]

Eucalyptus, Acacia dealbata. Otherwise you could try some types of pinus, cedrus or abies which are more interesting than a normal conifer.

[hammerman]

Eucalyptus will grow to 80' + in 10 years...believe me.

Prunus lauracerausis (laurel) is a good choice and can be pruned very hard back if needed

[hammerman]

Hollies and bay trees are good too as are some of the ornamental variagated privets.

Some cottoneasters will reach that size too.

[Hawkwalk]

Eucalyptus can be pruned to size. Laurel will not grow to 30ft and is a bush not a tree. Bay trees are very slow growing and are unlikely to reach 30ft in the UK.

[hammerman]

I have 30' bay and laurel at work....the laurels are (were) certainly trees because i've just pruned them down to 10 feet....it all depends on how you grow them (photo evidence can be provided if desired)

And if you want to hire a cherry picker once a year to prune a Eucalyptus to 30 feet....then plant one.

[CambsDad]

Dear Both

Many thanks for your helpful (and informative) suggestions. I should have added that the site is quite close to a house, so the eucalyptus option is out anyway.

Best wishes