What Plants Grow Under or Near a Black Walnut Tree

Black walnut trees are known for their beautiful wood, but if you're a gardener or landscaper, you may be more interested in what grows under or near them. Black walnut trees are allelopathic, meaning they produce chemicals that can be toxic to other plants. However, there are still many plants that are able to grow under or near black walnut trees.

Plants That Can Grow Under a Black Walnut Tree

The following plants are able to tolerate the allelopathic chemicals produced by black walnut trees:

Ferns: Ferns are a great option for growing near a black walnut tree as they are able to tolerate the chemical juglone, which is produced by black walnut trees. Fern species that can grow under a black walnut tree include lady fern, ostrich fern, and sensitive fern.

Hostas: Hostas are another plant that can tolerate juglone, making them a great option for growing near a black walnut tree. They have large leaves and come in a variety of colors, making them a popular choice for shade gardens.

Wild ginger: Wild ginger is a low-growing plant that has heart-shaped leaves and produces small, purplish flowers in the spring. It is able to tolerate juglone and makes a great groundcover under a black walnut tree.

Astilbe: Astilbe is a perennial that produces feathery flowers in shades of pink, white, and red. It can tolerate juglone and is a great option for adding color to a shady area.

Plants That Can Grow Near a Black Walnut Tree

While some plants are able to grow under a black walnut tree, others may prefer to grow nearby. These plants are still able to tolerate the juglone produced by black walnut trees:

Black-eyed Susan: Black-eyed Susan is a hardy perennial that produces bright yellow flowers with dark centers. It is able to tolerate juglone and is a great plant for attracting butterflies and bees to the area.

Lamium: Lamium is a groundcover that produces silver and green leaves and small pink or white flowers. It is able to tolerate juglone and makes a great addition to a woodland garden.

Heuchera: Heuchera, also known as coral bells, is a perennial that produces small, bell-shaped flowers in a variety of colors. It can tolerate juglone and is a great plant for adding color to a shady area.

Japanese painted fern: Japanese painted fern is a beautiful fern that has silver and purple fronds. It is able to tolerate juglone and makes a great addition to a shade garden.

Avoid These Plants Near a Black Walnut Tree

While there are many plants that can grow under or near a black walnut tree, there are also some plants that should be avoided as they are sensitive to the allelopathic chemicals produced by the tree. These plants include:

Tomatoes: Tomatoes are very sensitive to juglone and should not be grown near a black walnut tree.

Peppers: Peppers are also sensitive to juglone and should be avoided.

Potatoes: Potatoes are another plant that should not be grown near a black walnut tree.

Raspberries: Raspberries are very sensitive to juglone and should be avoided.

In Conclusion

While black walnut trees can be intimidating for gardeners and landscapers, there are still many plants that are able to grow under or near them. By choosing plants that are able to tolerate the allelopathic chemicals produced by the tree, you can create a beautiful and lush garden or landscape even in the presence of a black walnut tree.