What to Plant Under Shade Trees

Having a shade tree in your yard has numerous benefits, from reducing energy costs to providing a peaceful spot to relax on a hot summer day. However, the area under the tree can be challenging to plant due to low light levels, competition from the tree's roots, and limited water and nutrients. Here are some ideas for plants that thrive in the shade and are suitable for planting under trees.

Ground Covers

Ground covers are low-growing plants that spread horizontally and can help to prevent erosion, conserve soil moisture, and suppress weeds. Some varieties that do well in the shade include:

Pachysandra: This evergreen plant is tough and drought-resistant, making it an excellent choice for areas that are difficult to water regularly.

Hosta: With a variety of leaf shapes and colors to choose from, hostas are a popular choice for shady areas. However, they can be prone to slug damage, so avoid planting them near vegetables or other plants that are also sensitive to slugs.

Wild Ginger: The heart-shaped leaves of wild ginger make an attractive ground cover, and the plant also produces small flowers in the spring.

Ajuga: Also known as bugleweed, this plant is an excellent choice for wet areas and is often used to create a carpet-like effect under trees.

Perennials

Perennial plants come back year after year and can add color and interest to your shade garden. Here are some plants that do well in low light conditions:

Bleeding Heart: The delicate, heart-shaped flowers of bleeding heart plants add a touch of romance to any garden. They prefer moist, well-drained soil and need protection from the hot sun.

Foamflower: This low-growing plant produces clusters of pretty pink or white flowers in the spring and can be used as a ground cover or planted in borders.

Columbine: The unique bell-shaped flowers of columbine come in a range of colors, from pink and purple to yellow and white. They do well in moist soil and partial shade.

Heuchera: Also known as coral bells, these perennial plants come in a variety of colors and are often used as a border plant. They prefer moist, well-drained soil and can tolerate some sun as long as they are planted under a tree that provides dappled shade.

Shrubs

Shrubs are a great way to add structure and height to your shade garden. Here are some varieties that do well in low light conditions:

Hydrangea: These shrubs are known for their large, showy blooms and come in a variety of colors, from white to blue to pink. They prefer moist, well-drained soil and partial shade.

Azalea: This evergreen shrub produces clusters of flowers in shades of pink, red, purple, and white. They prefer moist, well-drained soil and partial shade.

Rhododendron: Similar to azaleas, these shrubs prefer moist, well-drained soil and partial shade. They produce large clusters of flowers in a range of colors.

Japanese Maple: With its delicate leaves and graceful shape, the Japanese maple is a popular choice for understory planting. They prefer well-drained soil and partial shade.

When planting under a shade tree, it is important to choose plants that can tolerate low light conditions, competition from tree roots, and limited water and nutrients. With these ideas for ground covers, perennials, and shrubs, you can create a beautiful shade garden that will thrive under your tree.