What Plants Grow Under Evergreen Trees

Evergreen trees are an attractive addition to any garden. They are beautiful, provide shade, and make a great windbreak. However, planting under these trees can be challenging because of the limited light and water that gets through to the soil. Luckily, there are several plants that can grow under evergreen trees, even in difficult growing conditions. Here are some of the best options:

1. Hostas

Hostas are a popular choice for planting in shady areas. They can handle being in the shadow of an evergreen tree and will add a pop of color to your garden. Hostas come in a variety of sizes and colors, from the tiny 'Blue Mouse Ears' to the large 'Sum and Substance'.

2. Ferns

Ferns are another popular choice for shady areas. They come in a variety of sizes and shapes and are perfect for filling in the space under an evergreen tree. Some of the most common species of ferns that can grow under evergreen trees include sword ferns, maidenhair ferns, and Japanese painted ferns.

3. Lamium

Lamium is a low-maintenance plant that loves shade and can grow well under evergreen trees. It is also known as silver dead nettle and produces delicate-looking flowers in the spring. Lamium comes in a variety of colors, including pink, white, and purple.

4. Hellebores

Hellebores are shade-loving plants that are perfect for under evergreen trees. They grow well under the canopy and produce flowers in the winter or early spring, which is a welcome sight when most other plants are dormant. Hellebores come in various shades, including pink, white, and burgundy.

5. Bleeding Hearts

Bleeding Hearts are a delicate and romantic plant that loves the shade. They produce heart-shaped flowers that hang down from the stem and come in a variety of colors, including pink, red, and white. These flowers will add a pop of color to the space under an evergreen tree, and their unique shape makes them stand out from other plants.

6. Vinca

Vinca, also known as periwinkle, is a hardy groundcover that can grow well in difficult growing conditions, including under evergreen trees. It produces blue, purple, or white flowers in the spring and summer and helps to suppress weed growth. Vinca is low-maintenance and can handle some foot traffic.

Conclusion

Planting under evergreen trees can be challenging, but there are several plants that can thrive in these conditions. Hostas, ferns, lamium, hellebores, bleeding hearts, and vinca are just a few of the plants that can add color and interest to the space under an evergreen tree. When selecting plants for your garden, be sure to choose species that are able to tolerate the low light and limited water that may be available in this environment. With the right selection of plants, you can create a beautiful and thriving garden under your evergreen tree.