What plants grow in shallow soil and in the shade of a large tree ?

Question

I need plants that grow and maybe spread but the soil although fertile is shallow because of the large carob tree

Answer 1

If you can get campanula, its hardy, evergreen, perennial and spreads itself without being a nuisance. I can't remember the variety I've got so I'll try and find out then come back.
It's available as blue or white flowered and is exceptionaly hardy and tolerant of any soil. I'm growing it in full shade and full sun, both sand and clay soil. It flowers from June through July.

Answer 2

Hostas are great, non-demanding plants. They grow well under a wide variety of conditions. They actually prefer shade so would be perfectly at home under a tree. Add some good aged manure to the soil and use mulch to aid in water retention. Just make sure to water regularly until they are established. They will need water when they're older but not too much. About 1 inch a week will do it but they can get by on less and still look good. I have them planted all around my yard and they are doing fine under my large maple.

Answer 3

Campanula carpatica, all hostas (keep well Watered) Ferns ( As for hostas keep watered) epimedium varieties, holly (green leaved varieties), bergenias, vinca (use "minor" varieties), ladies mantle. If you have acidic soil and can dig out some decent holes you can use rhodos and azaleas, japanese acers, pieris or put them in large pots. For summer colour use bedding begonias, impatiens (busy lizzies) and violas. I could list at least 20 or more varieties so if you need them just ask

Answer 4

Ajuga, violets and lady's mantle all grow in the shade and shallow soil. I have really healthy looking plants growing in my gravel.

Answer 5

Any ferns. They originate from under trees (just checkout woodlands) and love the shade.

I brought one last year to put under my tree and it died off. I was gutted and I thought what a waste of money. This year however it's came back to life and has doubled in size and looks lovely and green. :)

Answer 6

For an annual use Impatiens. They will give you constant blooms and all they ask for is water. They are not frost hardy so if you live in a frost zone they must be replanted each year.

All garden centers have them.

Answer 7

Impatients grow well as do hostas.