Introduction

Eastern redbud trees are beautiful ornamental trees that are native to the eastern United States. They are known for their showy pink or purple flowers that bloom in early spring. However, the space underneath the tree can be difficult to utilize due to the heavy shade it creates. In this article, we will explore what plants can thrive under an Eastern redbud tree.

Groundcovers

Groundcovers are a great choice for planting under Eastern redbud trees because they can tolerate the heavy shade and root competition. Some popular groundcovers include Hostas, Lamium, Pachysandra, and Vinca. Hostas are known for their large leaves and come in a variety of colors and sizes. Lamium has a silver variegated leaf and produces small pink or purple flowers in the spring. Pachysandra is a low-growing evergreen groundcover that produces white flowers in the spring. Vinca is a trailing plant that produces blue flowers and can spread quickly, making it great for covering large areas.

Perennials

Perennials can also thrive under an Eastern redbud tree as long as they are shade-tolerant. Some popular options include Bleeding Hearts, Foamflowers, Lenten Rose, and Wild Ginger. Bleeding Hearts produce heart-shaped flowers that hang from a stem, making them a stunning addition to any garden. Foamflowers have a unique leaf shape and produce white or pink flowers in the spring. Lenten Rose is a shade-tolerant perennial that blooms in late winter, often when no other flowers are blooming. Finally, Wild Ginger produces heart-shaped leaves that produce small purple flowers in early spring, making it a great plant for early pollinators.

Shrubs

Shrubs can also be planted under an Eastern redbud tree to add structure to the space. Some popular options include Hydrangeas, Azaleas, Rhododendrons, and Viburnums. Hydrangeas and Azaleas are known for their vibrant flowers and come in a variety of colors. Rhododendrons also produce large flowers and often bloom before the Eastern redbud tree, adding a burst of color to the area. Viburnums produce a cluster of small flowers and have evergreen leaves, making them a great year-round addition to the garden.

Conclusion

Planting under an Eastern redbud tree can be challenging, but by choosing the right plants, you can create a beautiful and cohesive garden. Groundcovers, perennials, and shrubs that are shade-tolerant and can compete with the Eastern redbud's root system are the best options for this space. Overall, there are many plants that can thrive under an Eastern redbud tree, so take some time to research and choose the best ones for your garden.