Plants That Tolerate Black Walnut Toxicity (Juglone)

You have a black walnut tree and want to know what to plant under and around it. You’ve heard the soil is acidic, but the real issue is juglone, a toxin produced by the tree.

Understanding Juglone

Juglone is present in fallen leaves, stems, and root exudates. It inhibits many plants and the mycorrhizal fungi they rely on for nutrient uptake.

Tolerant Plants

• Grasses: Fescue and Kentucky bluegrass (if soil moisture is adequate).
• Shrubs: Daphne (some species), elderberry, forsythia, hydrangea, lilac, witch hazel, viburnums.

Choose from these lists for better success near black walnut.