I'm looking to plant something colorful or flowering under my 35ft tall Ponderosa Pine, but the area is pretty shady. My wife isn't a fan of camellias, so I want to explore other options. I've thought about rhododendrons, dogwoods, or weeping Japanese maples, but I'm aware that the plant needs to thrive in acidic soil due to the pine tree. I'm located in zone 9b, so any plant suggestions that will work in these conditions would be appreciated!
3 Answers
If you're into ground covers, creeping thyme could be an awesome choice. They come in several flowering colors and can thrive in those dry conditions! Just a thought if you're looking for something a bit low-maintenance and colorful.
You might want to consider Manzanita or Ceanothus, as both are well-suited for dry, chaparral-like environments and are native in many areas where Ponderosa Pines grow. They're pretty resilient once established and won't need much care. Plus, Ceanothus is great for attracting pollinators, which is a nice bonus! The Ceonothus Concha variety is particularly stunning!
Azaleas could be a great option for the shady spot under your pine tree! They typically do well in similar conditions and can add a burst of color to your garden. Just make sure to pick a variety that thrives in your specific climate zone.
Thanks for the recommendation! I'll definitely check those out.