Got a shady backyard? Me too! I found 15 awesome plants that love the dark and can handle my kids’ “gardening.” Let’s turn those dull spots under trees into pretty gardens together!
15 Plants to Grow Under Trees
1. Hostas
Hostas have become my go-to plant for shady areas. These versatile perennials, growing 1-2 feet tall, thrive in USDA zones 3-9. I love how they prefer dappled to dense shade, making them perfect for those spots under mature trees where sunlight is scarce.
What really draws me to hostas is their lush greenery and the variety of leaf colors and textures available. From deep greens to vibrant chartreuse, there’s a hosta for every taste. In summer, delicate flowers appear, adding an extra layer of interest to these already stunning plants.
2. Bleeding Hearts
Bleeding Hearts hold a special place in my garden. These charming plants, reaching up to 3 feet tall, are hardy in zones 3-9. I’ve found they do best in dappled shade, which makes them ideal for planting under deciduous trees.
The heart-shaped flowers are a sight to behold, dangling gracefully from arching stems. I particularly enjoy how they bloom in cooler weather, providing a burst of color in early spring before many other plants have woken up.
3. Columbine
Columbine has quickly become one of my favorite additions to the woodland garden. Growing up to 3 feet tall and suitable for zones 3-9, these plants offer star-shaped blooms that never fail to catch the eye.
I’ve noticed that columbine prefers full to partial sun, so I plant them in areas where they can catch some filtered light through the tree canopy. They’re not too fussy about soil, as long as it’s evenly moist and well-draining. As a bonus, the bright flowers attract pollinators, bringing life to the garden.
4. Cranesbill
Cranesbill, or hardy geranium, has proven to be a reliable performer in my shade garden. Standing about 2 feet tall and thriving in zones 4-9, these plants have simple yet brightly colored flowers that add a cheerful touch to any shady spot.
I appreciate how low-maintenance cranesbill is, tolerating shade and adapting well to the conditions under trees. The loamy, well-drained soil in my garden seems to suit them perfectly.
5. Asters
Asters have become my go-to plant for late-season color. With heights ranging from 1-6 feet depending on the variety, there’s an aster for every space. While some species prefer full sun, I’ve had success with shade-tolerant varieties in my woodland garden.
The daisy-like flowers bloom from late summer into fall, providing a much-needed burst of color when other plants are winding down. I love watching butterflies flock to these blooms, adding movement and life to the garden.
6. Primrose
Primroses hold a special place in my heart, reminding me of English cottage gardens. These shade-tolerant plants, growing 1-2 feet tall, are perfect for zones 4-8. Their classic appearance and wide range of colors make them a versatile choice for underplanting trees.
I especially enjoy the early spring blooms of primroses, which signal the end of winter and the beginning of a new growing season.
7. Azaleas
Azaleas bring a touch of southern charm to my woodland garden. These shrubs can reach up to 5 feet tall and 25 inches wide, making quite a statement under trees. Hardy in zones 6-9, they prefer partial shade and well-draining soil.
The vibrant, showy flowers of azaleas are truly a sight to behold. I’ve planted both evergreen and deciduous varieties, ensuring year-round interest. However, I’m always cautious to keep pets away, as azaleas can be toxic if ingested.
8. Bloodroot
Bloodroot has become one of my favorite native woodland plants. Thriving in zones 3-8, this shade-loving perennial prefers moist, well-drained soil. I’m always excited to see its snowy white flowers emerge in late winter to early spring, often before other plants have stirred.
9. Pansies
Pansies bring a cheerful touch to my woodland garden. Growing up to 1 foot tall and hardy in zones 7-10, these flowers prefer morning sun and afternoon shade – perfect for the dappled light under trees.
I love the wide range of colors available and the charming “face” markings on the blooms. While they’re often grown as annuals, I’ve had some success overwintering them in sheltered spots.
10. Ferns
No woodland garden would be complete without ferns. With heights ranging from 1-6 feet, there’s a fern for every space. Most are hardy in zones 4 and up, though it’s always best to check the specific variety.
Ferns love indirect light and humidity, making them perfect for those damp, shady spots under trees. The diverse foliage textures add interest and create a lush, woodland atmosphere.
11. Mertensia (Virginia Bluebells)
Virginia Bluebells have become a springtime favorite in my garden. Growing 1-2 feet tall and hardy in zones 4-9, these native wildflowers prefer partial shade and rich, well-draining soil.
The hanging clusters of bell-shaped flowers are a delightful sight in spring. I love how they naturalize over time, creating a beautiful blue carpet under the trees.
12. Lamium
Lamium, or dead nettle, has proven to be an excellent groundcover in my shady areas. Growing less than 1 meter tall and hardy in zones 4-8, it thrives in full to partial shade.
The lush, often variegated foliage provides interest even when the plant isn’t blooming. The dainty purple flowers are an added bonus, attracting pollinators to the woodland garden.
13. Sage
I’ve found that incorporating herbs into my woodland garden adds both visual interest and practicality. Sage, growing 1-3 feet tall and hardy in zones 4-8, does well in partial shade and well-draining soil.
Not only does sage provide aromatic foliage and pretty flowers, but it’s also useful in the kitchen. Once established, it’s quite drought-tolerant, making it a low-maintenance addition to the garden.
14. Stonecrop (Sedum)
Stonecrop, or sedum, has surprised me with how well it performs in partially shaded areas. Growing about 2 feet tall and hardy in zones 4-9, these succulents add unique texture to the woodland garden.
I love the dense clusters of flowers that appear in late summer and the drought-tolerant nature of these plants. They’re perfect for those dry spots under trees where other plants might struggle.
15. Hydrangeas
Hydrangeas make a bold statement in my woodland garden. These shrubs can reach impressive heights of 10 feet or more, creating a dramatic understory beneath the trees. Hardy in zones 3-6, they prefer partial shade and rich, well-draining soil.
The large, showy flower clusters are always a talking point among visitors. I enjoy experimenting with different species and cultivars, and even adjusting soil pH to change the flower color of some varieties.
Planting and Care Tips
Creating a thriving woodland garden takes some preparation and ongoing care. Here are some tips I’ve learned along the way:
Soil Preparation
- Test your soil pH and amend if necessary. Many woodland plants prefer slightly acidic soil.
- Add organic matter to improve drainage and nutrient content. I use a mix of compost and leaf mold.
- In areas with poor drainage, consider using raised beds or mounds to improve soil conditions.
Watering and Maintenance
- Water deeply but less frequently to encourage deep root growth. This helps plants compete with tree roots for water.
- Use mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds. I prefer natural materials like shredded leaves or pine straw.
- Prune as needed to maintain shape and remove dead growth. This keeps the garden looking tidy and promotes healthy growth.
Seasonal Considerations
- Plant in spring or fall for best establishment. I avoid planting in the heat of summer when plants are under more stress.
- Protect tender plants from frost in colder zones. I use frost cloth or mulch to insulate sensitive plants.
- Consider the tree’s seasonal changes when planning your garden. Deciduous trees will allow more light in winter, while evergreens provide year-round shade.