Which Plants Do Well Under Black Cherry Trees

Black cherry trees (Prunus serotina) are known for their beautiful bark, delicate flowers, and delicious fruit. They are also a great addition to any garden because they attract beneficial insects and provide shade. However, the trees have a reputation for being allelopathic, which means they release chemicals that inhibit the growth of other plants. This can make it difficult to find plants that thrive under black cherry trees. Here are some options to consider:

Native Plants

Native plants are always a great choice for any garden because they are well adapted to the local climate and soil. They also have a natural resistance to pests and disease, which means they require less maintenance than non-native plants. Some native plants that do well under black cherry trees include:

Wild Columbine (Aquilegia canadensis): This beautiful plant has delicate red and yellow flowers that attract hummingbirds and butterflies. It prefers partial shade and well-drained soils.

Plains Coreopsis (Coreopsis tinctoria): This hardy wildflower has bright yellow and red flowers that bloom from mid-summer to fall. It is drought tolerant and does well in sandy soils.

Woodland Phlox (Phlox divaricata): This lovely plant has lavender-blue flowers that bloom in early spring. It prefers shady areas with moist, well-drained soils.

Ground Covers

Ground covers are a great solution for planting under black cherry trees because they help to retain moisture and prevent erosion. They also provide a low-maintenance alternative to grass. Some ground covers that do well under black cherry trees include:

Periwinkle (Vinca minor): This evergreen plant has shiny green leaves and blue flowers that bloom in early spring. It does well in full shade and moist soils.

Wintergreen (Gaultheria procumbens): This aromatic ground cover has glossy leaves and white or pink flowers that bloom in the summer. It prefers acidic soils and partial shade.

Wild Ginger (Asarum canadense): This low-growing plant has heart-shaped leaves and bell-shaped flowers that bloom in spring. It prefers shady areas with moist, well-drained soils.

Shrubs and Small Trees

Shrubs and small trees can add visual interest to your garden and provide a habitat for birds and other wildlife. They can also thrive under black cherry trees if they are planted in the right conditions. Some shrubs and small trees that do well under black cherry trees include:

Witch Hazel (Hamamelis virginiana): This small tree has fragrant yellow flowers that bloom in late winter to early spring. It prefers well-drained soils and partial shade.

Summersweet (Clethra alnifolia): This shrub has fragrant white or pink flowers that bloom in mid-summer. It prefers moist soils and partial shade.

Fothergilla (Fothergilla gardenii): This shrub has fragrant white flowers that bloom in early spring. It prefers well-drained soils and partial shade.

Planting under black cherry trees can be a challenge, but it is possible to create a beautiful and thriving garden if you choose the right plants. Whether you opt for native plants, ground covers, or shrubs and small trees, make sure that you select species that are well adapted to your local climate, soil, and light conditions. With a little bit of patience and careful planning, your garden will thrive under the shade of your black cherry tree.