Beautiful Companion Plants That Thrive Next To Black Cherry Trees

Trees serve as the towering pillars of a garden's ecosystem, providing habitat, oxygen, and resources. Black cherry trees (Prunus serotina) are a great addition to any landscape, with their dark, shiny leaves and white blossoms that produce rich, edible fruits. However, when planting near these trees, it's vital to select companion plants that not only look great alongside them but also thrive in the specific growing conditions they create. So, what is companion planting, and how does it benefit your garden?

Finding the right companions means understanding the tree's natural environment, along with the kinds of plants that can best coexist with it. One of the best things about black cherry trees is their ability to tolerate various different soil types, making them adaptable to different garden settings. Black cherry trees prefer full sun to partial shade and well-draining, slightly acidic soil, but they also release compounds through their leaves and roots that can inhibit the growth of some plants. To work around this, select companions that are known for their ability to tolerate these conditions.

If you're looking for companion plants that thrive near black cherry trees, there are several great options to consider, depending on your landscape. Trees like Sassafras (Sassafras albidum) and Red Maple (Acer rubrum) are perfect companions since they both do well in slightly acidic, well-draining soils. Sugar Maple (Acer saccharum) is another good choice, offering vibrant foliage in the autumn. American Elm (Ulmus Americana) and American Hornbeam (Carpinus caroliniana) are also great picks since they like the same soil conditions as black cherry and add texture with their distinctive bark and leaves.

American Holly (Ilex opaca) is a nice addition as it adds year-round interest with its glossy foliage and bright red berries. Black cherry is a fast-growing tree that pollinators and birds can't get enough of, but to attract even more, Buttonbush (Cephalanthus) and Serviceberry (Amelanchier) are great options. They do well in moist, well-drained soils and attract pollinators with their flowers and berries. Dogwoods (Cornus) are another solid choice, with pretty spring blooms for some added visual interest. 

Pollinator-friendly perennials like Butterflyweed (Asclepias tuberosa) and Coneflowers (Dracopis) add color and attract bees and butterflies, while Bee Balm (Monarda) attracts hummingbirds. Loblolly Pine (Pinus taeda) and Eastern White Pine (Pinus strobus) are evergreen tree varieties that thrive in acidic soil and can add some height to the surrounding landscape, providing year-round greenery. And Oaks and Hickories add a robust, long-lasting presence. These companion plants all thrive in similar conditions, creating a biodiverse environment around your black cherry tree.