What Plants Will Grow Under Black Walnut Trees

Black walnut trees are known for their beauty, but they can also make it difficult for plants to grow underneath them. This is because the trees produce a toxic substance called juglone that can inhibit the growth of other plants. However, there are still some plants that can thrive in the presence of black walnut trees. In this article, we will explore some common and uncommon plants that can grow under black walnut trees.

Common Plants That Can Grow Under Black Walnut Trees

Despite the presence of juglone, there are several types of plants that are known to grow well under black walnut trees. Some of these plants include:

Hostas

Ferns

Astilbes

Brunneras

Pulmonarias

Primroses

Japanese painted ferns

These plants are able to tolerate juglone and can make a beautiful addition to any garden under black walnut trees. It is important to note that some of these plants may still be affected by juglone if the concentration is high.

Uncommon Plants That Can Grow Under Black Walnut Trees

In addition to the common plants that can grow under black walnut trees, there are also some lesser-known plants that can thrive in this environment. These include:

Pachysandra

Epimediums

Snowdrops

Cyclamen

Tricyrtis

These plants may not be as well-known as some of the other plants on this list, but they are still beautiful and can add color and texture to any garden. They are also able to tolerate juglone and should not be affected by the toxic substance produced by black walnut trees.

Plants to Avoid Planting Under Black Walnut Trees

While there are several plants that can grow under black walnut trees, there are also some plants that you should avoid planting in this environment. These include:

Tomatoes

Peppers

Eggplants

Blackberries

Raspberries

Blueberries

These plants are particularly sensitive to juglone and should not be planted under black walnut trees. If you do decide to plant them in this environment, be sure to plant them far away from the tree to minimize the impact of the toxic substance.

Conclusion

Black walnut trees can make it challenging to grow plants underneath them, but there are still several types of plants that can thrive in this environment. Hostas, ferns, and astilbes are some of the most common plants that can grow under black walnut trees, while pachysandra and epimediums are less well-known but equally beautiful. It is important to avoid planting sensitive plants like tomatoes and blackberries under black walnut trees to avoid stunting their growth. With the right plants and some care and attention, you can create a beautiful garden under a black walnut tree.