And keep in mind that even plants for dry shade need regular watering until their roots are well-established. When planting shade-lovers, consider adding organic matter to increase moisture retention and enrich the soil. For lower groundcovers, good options are lamb’s ear, lady’s mantle, periwinkle, Lamium, lily of the valley, Pachysandra, snow-in-summer, ajuga, lady’s mantle, wild ginger, Epimedium and perennial Geranium. Shade plants of almost any height can work as groundcovers since they tend to be grown for foliage more than flower, and their tendency to spread and cover will help reduce weeds.

Ferns and corydalis have finely cut foliage that contrasts well with broader-leaved plants, and corydalis has delicate yellow flowers from early summer into fall. Coral bells, variegated Solomon’s seal, hosta, coral bells and ferns offer a wide variety of colors, sizes and textures. Shady areas tend to be dark so textured or variegated foliage can brighten them up. Variegated Foliage Brightens up Shaded Areas For late bloom, turtlehead and toad lily will bloom far into the fall. Toad lilies are one of the most beautiful plants for shade gardens and add an exotic look that makes them a welcome addition in cutting gardens as well. For summer bloom, daylilies can bloom in fairly dense shade and foxglove, Bergenia, Geranium and sedum all offer beautiful flowers. Early-flowering Virginia bluebells (above), celandine poppy and Brunnera (behind) will give way to other shade plants in summer.Įarly-blooming perennials for shady areas include woodland phlox, Lenten rose, columbine, foam flower ( Tiarella), Brunnera, celandine poppy (aggressive re-seeder), Epimedium, Virginia bluebells and bleeding heart.

Full shade plants