The Best Shade Plants for Your Garden: Thriving in Low Light
Not all gardens are blessed with full sun, but that doesn't mean you can't have a vibrant and lush space. Shade-loving plants can flourish in those areas with little sunlight, whether it’s beneath trees, along north-facing walls, or in areas that receive only dappled light. Here are some fantastic shade plants to consider for your garden:
Hostas (Hosta spp.):
Why They’re Great: Hostas are one of the most popular shade-loving plants, known for their wide variety of leaf colors, shapes, and sizes. They thrive in low to moderate light and can add texture and depth to shady areas. Plus, they’re low-maintenance and deer-resistant.
Varieties to Try: 'Blue Angel,' 'Sum and Substance,' or 'Royal Standard.'
Ferns (Various species):
Why They’re Great: Ferns are perfect for adding lush greenery to shaded spots. They do well in moist, well-draining soil and can tolerate full shade in woodland gardens or along shaded paths.
Varieties to Try: Japanese Painted Fern (Athyrium niponicum), Lady Fern (Athyrium filix-femina), or Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata).
Astilbe (Astilbe spp.):
Why They’re Great: Astilbes are beautiful perennial plants that produce feathery, plume-like flowers in a variety of colors, including pink, white, and red. They thrive in shaded to partially shaded areas and add vertical interest to your garden.
Growing Tip: Astilbes prefer moist, rich soil, so regular watering is important, especially during dry spells.
Heuchera (Heuchera spp.):
Why They’re Great: Also known as coral bells, Heucheras are prized for their colorful foliage, which can range from deep purple to bright chartreuse. They do well in part to full shade and are perfect for adding a pop of color to shady garden corners.
Varieties to Try: 'Palace Purple,' 'Lime Rickey,' or 'Caramel.'
Solomon’s Seal (Polygonatum spp.):
Why They’re Great: Solomon's Seal is a graceful plant that thrives in full or partial shade. It has arching stems with delicate, bell-shaped flowers that bloom in spring. This perennial adds elegance to shaded woodland gardens.
Varieties to Try: Variegated Solomon’s Seal (Polygonatum odoratum 'Variegatum') or Dwarf Solomon’s Seal (Polygonatum humile).
Bleeding Heart (Dicentra spp.):
Why They’re Great: Bleeding Hearts are known for their heart-shaped flowers, which dangle from delicate stems in the spring. They do best in partial to full shade and can bring a romantic feel to your garden.
Varieties to Try: Dicentra Spectabilis (classic pink variety) or White Bleeding Heart (Dicentra eximia).
Lungwort (Pulmonaria spp.):
Why They’re Great: Lungwort is a hardy perennial that does well in shady, moist areas. It has attractive, speckled leaves and clusters of blue, pink, or purple flowers in early spring. It’s also a great groundcover.
Varieties to Try: Pulmonaria 'Raspberry Splash' or Pulmonaria 'Blue Ensign.'
Tiarella (Tiarella spp.):
Why They’re Great: Known as foamflower, Tiarella has airy, spiky flowers and deeply cut leaves. It thrives in shaded areas and works well as a groundcover or in borders. It’s an excellent choice for adding both texture and beauty to shaded garden spots.
Varieties to Try: 'Sugar and Spice' or 'Pink Skyrocket.'
Lamium (Lamium maculatum):
Why They’re Great: Lamium is an excellent groundcover for shaded areas. It has variegated leaves, often with a silver pattern, and produces small, tubular flowers that range from white to purple.
Varieties to Try: Lamium 'Beacon Silver' or Lamium 'Purple Dragon.'
Bergenia (Bergenia spp.):
Why They’re Great: Bergenia, or "elephant’s ears," has thick, leathery leaves that provide year-round interest. It produces pink or white flowers in early spring and is great for adding structure to shady spots.
Varieties to Try: Bergenia 'Bressingham White' or Bergenia 'Happy Panda.'
Tips for Growing Shade Plants:
Soil Matters: Many shade-loving plants prefer moist, well-drained soil. Consider amending your soil with compost to improve texture and fertility.
Consider Leaf Texture: Plants with large, glossy leaves, such as hostas or ligularia, can help brighten dark, shaded areas. Ferns and grasses with fine, delicate leaves can add texture.
Watering Needs: Shade plants can still require consistent moisture, especially during hot summer months. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Do you have a favorite shade-loving plant in your garden? Share your tips for growing and caring for shade plants, or let us know if you’ve had success with a variety not listed here!