Which type of wood typically grows in a shorter time frame?

Softwood typically comes from coniferous trees, such as pine, spruce, and fir, which generally have a faster growth rate compared to hardwoods that come from deciduous trees like oak and maple. Softwood trees often reach maturity in just a few decades, making them a more sustainable option for timber production. This rapid growth allows for increased availability and lower costs in the production of various wood products.

In contrast, hardwood trees usually take much longer to grow and mature, often requiring several decades or even centuries. Engineered wood and plywood are products made from processed wood fibers or layers glued together, and their growth rate is not applicable in the way it is for solid wood types. Therefore, softwood's quicker growth cycle is what makes it the correct answer in this scenario.