Choosing the right plants to grow under trees is essential to ensure a healthy and beautiful garden. When selecting plants for this challenging environment, it’s essential to consider the amount of shade, competition for water and nutrients, and the presence of tree roots. Fortunately, there are several suitable options that can thrive under trees and enhance the overall aesthetic of your garden.
Oakleaf Hydrangea
Oakleaf hydrangea is a versatile and attractive shrub that thrives in the shade of trees. Known for its large, oak-shaped leaves and stunning white blooms, this plant adds visual interest to the understory of a tree while tolerating the challenging conditions present in this environment.
Azaleas
Azaleas are a popular choice for planting under trees due to their vibrant blooms and ability to thrive in partial shade. These colorful shrubs come in a variety of shades, adding a pop of color to the otherwise green and shady area beneath a tree.
Euonymus
Euonymus is a versatile plant that can be grown under trees and in other challenging environments. With its attractive foliage and low-maintenance nature, euonymus is an excellent choice for adding texture and interest to the base of a tree.
Variegated Aucuba
Variegated aucuba is another excellent option for planting under trees, thanks to its ability to thrive in low light conditions and its striking variegated foliage. This plant adds a touch of elegance to the shaded area beneath a tree.
Soft-Tip Yucca
Soft-tip yucca is a hardy plant that can withstand the challenges of growing under trees, including competition for water and nutrients. With its unique shape and structure, soft-tip yucca adds a touch of architectural interest to the understory of a tree.
Nandina
Nandina, also known as heavenly bamboo, is a versatile plant that can thrive under trees. With its year-round interest, including colorful foliage and berries, nandina adds beauty and charm to the shaded area beneath a tree.
Hollies
Many hollies, such as inkberry and Winterberry, are well-suited for planting under trees. With their glossy green foliage and colorful berries, hollies provide visual interest and wildlife benefits to the understory of a tree.
Mahonia
Mahonia, also known as Oregon grape, is a shade-tolerant plant that thrives under trees. With its spiky foliage and bright yellow flowers, mahonia adds a touch of drama and color to the base of a tree.
Spirea
Spirea is a reliable and low-maintenance plant that can grow under trees. With its cascading foliage and delicate blooms, spirea adds a soft and graceful touch to the shaded area beneath a tree.
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing the best plants to grow under trees, consider the unique growing conditions of this environment and select plants that can thrive in shade, compete with tree roots, and add beauty and interest to the space. By planting shade- and root-tolerant shrubs such as oakleaf hydrangea, azaleas, euonymus, variegated aucuba, soft-tip yucca, nandina, hollies, mahonia, and spirea, you can create a vibrant and flourishing garden under the canopy of your favorite trees.
