Trees for Deep Shade Areas

Looking for general shade trees? See our shade trees collection — trees that PROVIDE shade. This page is different. This collection is for trees that grow IN deep shade — under canopies, on the south side of buildings, in courtyards that get little direct sun.

Most trees struggle without sun. These varieties don't. They've evolved as understorey species or shade-tolerant cultivars, and they'll grow happily where other trees fail.

Best trees for deep shade in Australia:

• Camellias — the classic shade-tolerant flowering tree. Japonica and Sasanqua varieties both work in 3-5 hours of indirect light.
• Japanese Maples (Acer palmatum) — actually prefer dappled shade. Many varieties scorch in full sun.
• Tristaniopsis — happy under canopy, makes a clean small tree.
• Magnolia (selected varieties) — Magnolia Little Gem tolerates part shade well.
• Hymenosporum (Native Frangipani) — native shade-tolerant feature.

Browse the full collection below — every variety listed has been hand-picked for genuine deep-shade tolerance in Australian conditions.