What to Plant under Hydrangea Tree

Hydrangeas are beautiful flowering shrubs that are commonly planted in gardens and landscapes all over the world. They are known for their large, showy blooms that come in a range of colors, including pink, blue, white, and purple. Hydrangeas can grow quite large and create a lovely canopy of shade, making them a great choice for creating a relaxing outdoor space. However, one common question that many gardeners have is what to plant under the hydrangea tree. Here are some great options to consider:

Option 1: Shade-loving Plants

Since hydrangeas are known for their ability to create shade, it makes sense to choose shade-loving plants to grow underneath them. Here are some great options:

Hostas: Hostas are a popular choice for planting underneath hydrangeas. They are known for their lush, green foliage and come in a variety of sizes and colors. Hostas also don't mind growing in the shade, making them a perfect match for hydrangeas.

Ferns: Ferns are another great choice for planting underneath hydrangeas. They come in a range of sizes and are also adapted to growing in shady conditions. Some great options to consider include the Japanese painted fern or the oak fern.

Bleeding Hearts: Bleeding hearts are a classic garden plant that are known for their heart-shaped flowers that hang down from the stems. They are also shade-loving plants and make a great addition to any garden that has hydrangeas.

Option 2: Colorful Flowers

If you're looking to add some color to your garden underneath the hydrangea tree, there are plenty of options to consider. Here are some great choices:

Astilbes: Astilbes are a great choice for adding color to your garden. They come in a range of shades including pink, red, and white, and also don't mind growing in the shade. Plus, their feathery blooms add a nice texture to the garden.

Begonias: Begonias are another colorful option for planting underneath hydrangeas. They come in a range of colors and can also handle growing in the shade. They also have a long blooming period, so you'll get plenty of color throughout the growing season.

Columbines: Columbines are another great choice for adding some color to your garden. They come in a range of colors including pink, red, and blue, and their delicate, bell-shaped flowers add a nice contrast to the bold hydrangea blooms.

Option 3: Ground Covers

If you're looking for some low-maintenance options for planting underneath your hydrangea tree, then ground covers are a great choice. Here are some to consider:

Creeping Jenny: Creeping jenny is a low-growing ground cover that has bright green foliage. It spreads quickly and can help to fill in any empty spaces underneath the hydrangea tree.

Sweet Woodruff: Sweet woodruff is another great option for a ground cover. It has delicate white flowers that bloom in the spring and its leaves have a sweet scent.

Dead nettle: Dead nettle is another great option for a ground cover. It has a beautiful purple foliage and also has pink or white flowers.

No matter what you decide to plant underneath your hydrangea tree, be sure to choose plants that are adapted to growing in the shade. With the right plants, you can create a beautiful garden that will thrive underneath the canopy of your hydrangea tree.