Can I plant hostas under a maple tree?
Yes, in fact these are one of the best just choices. Just make sure and keep plants well-watered the first few months or year until they are established. Other choices might be vinca vine (if not invasive in your area) underneath, and daffodils between. Foamflower, barren strawberry (Waldsteinia), and dead nettle (Lamium) are some other choices.