From Birds and Blooms · Melinda Myers · · 40s
Best Evergreen Trees for Shade
Shade-friendly evergreens that resist deer and thrive in low light.
In brief
Shade-friendly evergreens that resist deer and thrive in low light. Hemlocks and arborvitae grow well in shade, but require pest monitoring and deer protection. Originally reported by Birds and Blooms.
Shade-Tolerant Evergreens
Hemlocks (Tsuga canadensis) grow well in shade and stay under 15 feet tall.
“Most evergreens prefer full- to part-sun locations, but there are some good candidates for your shady garden.”
Deer-Resistant Options
Arborvitae and false cypress tolerate part shade but attract deer.
“Arborvitae is generally low maintenance, although it is a favorite of deer.”
Pest Concerns
Hemlocks face hemlock wooly adelgid, an invasive insect in Eastern US and Canada.
“They are susceptible to hemlock wooly adelgid, an invasive insect that has been a problem in much of the Eastern United States, southeastern Canada and recorded as a pest in California and Oregon.”
Mountain Laurel Benefits
Mountain laurel attracts pollinators with spring blooms and avoids deer.
“Mountain laurel (Kalmia latifolia) is a broadleaf evergreen grown as a large shrub or small tree.”
Shade Tolerance Tips
Yews and mountain laurel grow better in deeper shade with open habits.
“Yews (Taxus) can be grown as shrubs or small trees. Depending on the variety, they can tolerate part shade.”
At a glance
Hemlocks and arborvitae grow well in shade, but require pest monitoring and deer protection.
