What to Plant with Japanese Maple Trees

Japanese maple trees are a popular choice for landscapes due to their stunning foliage and elegant shape. However, choosing the right plants to complement them can be difficult. Here are some ideas for plants that will look great with Japanese maple trees.

1. Hostas

Hostas are a great complement to Japanese maple trees because they thrive in the same growing conditions. They are shade-loving plants that have large, broad leaves in shades of green, blue, or variegated. Hostas can be planted around the base of the tree to add texture and interest to your garden.

2. Ferns

Ferns are another shade-loving plant that can add texture to your garden. They come in a variety of sizes and shapes, from delicate and feathery to large and bold. Some ferns, like the Japanese painted fern, even have foliage that complements the colors of Japanese maple leaves.

3. Azaleas

Azaleas are a popular choice for pairing with Japanese maple trees because they offer brilliant bloom colors that contrast nicely with the foliage. Azaleas come in shades of white, pink, red, orange, and purple. They also prefer the same acidic soil conditions as Japanese maples, making them a great companion plant.

4. Hakonechloa Grass

Hakonechloa grass is a slow-growing, shade-loving plant that complements Japanese maple trees nicely. It has long, narrow leaves that come in shades of green, gold, or variegated. Its low growth habit means it won't compete with the tree for sunlight, making it a great groundcover plant.

5. Bleeding Heart

Bleeding heart is a classic shade-loving plant that has delicate, heart-shaped flowers in shades of pink or white. Its foliage is also attractive, with lacy, fern-like leaves. Bleeding heart can be planted around the base of the tree to add color and interest to your garden.

6. Heuchera

Heuchera, or coral bells, are a great choice for adding color to your garden. They come in a variety of shades, from bright green to burgundy, and have attractive foliage that complements Japanese maple trees nicely. Heuchera also prefer acidic soil conditions, making them a great choice for companion planting.

7. Hydrangeas

Hydrangeas are another plant that complements Japanese maple trees nicely. They add color to the garden with their large, showy flowers in shades of pink, blue, white, or purple. Hydrangeas also prefer the same growing conditions as Japanese maples, making them a great companion plant.

Conclusion

When choosing plants to pair with Japanese maple trees, it is important to consider the growing conditions of the tree. Shade-loving plants that prefer acidic soil, like hostas and ferns, make great companions. Plants with brightly colored blooms, like azaleas and hydrangeas, can add interest and contrast to the garden. Choose plants with foliage that complements the colors of the Japanese maple leaves, like heuchera and hakonechloa grass, to create a cohesive look.