Shade Plants for Color Under a Bradford Pear

Grass struggles under the dense shade of a Bradford pear, but many ornamental plants thrive there. Excellent choices for color and texture include fatsia, Japanese painted fern, variegated Solomon's seal, hosta, Lenten rose, Italian arum, ajuga, and caladium.

These plants offer a succession of foliage interest and blooms from spring through fall. Plant them in drifts for a natural, lush look that eliminates the need for a plain pine straw island.