Walking past rows of diverse, colorful, and thriving plants can be quite an invigorating experience, especially for the avid nature lover. Walkways that are flanked with compact shrubs, cottages surrounded by flowering perennials, and fences that are naturalized with native flora are always welcoming sights for sore eyes. With an ability to brighten up and enliven almost any space, plants have unmatched visual importance in shady outdoor zones.
Though direct sunlight is a definite requirement for many types of plants, its absence need not be an impediment to creating a living border. Many exceptional species, such as those which dot the understories of forests, actually favor partial to low-light conditions. These tend to have adaptations for making the most out of minimal sun exposure.
When choosing plants for a shady border, pay attention to their substrate requirements, moisture preferences, and their minimum light requirements. Some species are able to survive in the shade but they may not flourish over time. Most of the plants listed below are known for naturally growing in poorly lit and occasionally challenging habitats. These horticultural favorites can turn your shade borders into some of the most low-maintenance parts of the garden!
1) Oakleaf hydrangea (Hydrangea quercifolia)
Quintessential shade border plants, hydrangeas are some of the most versatile flowering shrubs in a landscaper’s arsenal. These stunning perennials are set apart by their large foliage and their bouquet-like inflorescences. The oakleaf hydrangea, the official state wildflower of Alabama, is especially showy. Its ‘Snowflake’ and ‘Snow Queen’ cultivars are recipients of the RHS Award of Garden Merit.
This garden favorite favors conditions in shady areas because its wild stands are restricted to woodland habitats. Mature specimens tend to be prolific when they are situated in partial shade. When their roots are provided with slightly acidic substrates and adequate moisture, they can survive in almost full shade. Borders with seasonally dry conditions may be tolerated, though these may compromise the plant’s flowering rates.
This deciduous species grows to a full height of about 12 feet (3.7 meters), so its dense stands can be cultivated as a natural fence or screen. Its multi-lobed leaves, which resemble those of oak trees, tend to become larger in poorly-lit locations. A single leaf can measure as much as 12 inches (30 cm) long and wide. The leaves provide stunning fall-winter interest as they turn into brilliant shades of red and purple.
2) Ferns (Polypodiophyta spp.)
Able to reproduce via spores instead of flowers, ferns are one of the oldest groups of plants on Earth. These vascular species have dozens of uses as sources of valuable phytochemicals, biofuels or fertilizers, and food. Though they are found in dozens of types of environments, many of today’s commonly cultivated ferns hail from damp and dim areas. Their preference for shade and moisture makes them ideal for poorly lit borders.
The Japanese painted fern (Athyrium niponicum), lady fern (Athyrium filix-femina), soft shield fern (Polystichum setiferum), and northern maidenhair fern (Adiantum pedatum) are just some species that can be cultivated in the shade. These have attractive, feathery fronds and unrivaled texture. They thrive in conditions that are similar to those found in dense woodland habitats.
To create a lush border of ferns, make sure to plant species with similar growth preferences next to one another. Groups of 3 – 5 ferns should eventually provide textural fronds that can withstand moderate winds and rain. Keep in mind that each specimen should be provided with enough space to accommodate its arching fronds.
3) Coral bells (Heuchera spp.)
The majority of ornamental coral bells are cultivars of H. americana, which is set apart by its manageable mature size of 2 x 2 feet (61 x 61 cm). These evergreen perennials are naturally found in canyons, rocky crevices, open woods, and forested woodlands. In USDA zones 4 – 8, particularly regions in the Mid-Atlantic, they prefer zones with partial shade. Excess sun can scorch their leaves or cause them to wilt.
In general, lighter-toned Heuchera cultivars are more likely to thrive in the shade than those with deep-colored leaves. These are great for dim borders that may receive a few hours of morning sun each day. ‘Green Spice’, ‘Amber Waves’, ‘Gold Zebra’, and ‘Citronelle’ are some varieties that should effectively brighten up the garden with their vivid foliage. To complement the dazzling array of leaf colors each summer, these plants produce eye-catching inflorescences.
4) Woodland tobacco (Nicotiana sylvestris)
Tobacco plants tend to favor full sun, but this South American biennial has a remarkable tolerance for shade. In fact, in areas with intensely warm summer conditions, partial or dappled shade is better for its foliage and blooms. Afternoon shade should help keep the flowers in good shape, prolonging their season. Able to grow rapidly, this member of the nightshade family (Solanaceae) is often treated as an annual plant.
The leaves of woodland tobacco grow much larger and develop a more vivid green hue in partial shade. When these are situated in full sun, they lighten to a chartreuse-like tone. Within a single growth period, 18-inch (46-cm) long leaves are produced by shoots that measure as much as 5 feet (1.5 meters) tall. Those found further up the stem tend to be shorter than the basal leaves. Over time, the stems may lean toward one direction. Fortunately, they tend to be strong enough to remain upright without a stake.
Woodland tobacco is great for mixed borders in cottage gardens. Its rows can serve as a backdrop for lower-growing plants. The tender foliage can bring out the deeper hues of variegated shade plants. As this species grows quickly, it can be used to fill in the gaps left by summer-dormant perennials.
5) Plantain lily (Hosta spp.)
If you consult a professional horticulturist for shade plant recommendations, you’re guaranteed to hear about the merits of plantain lilies. These vibrant, leafy perennials are lauded for their attractive foliage, which comes in a wide range of visually relaxing greens and yellows. Some cultivars have variegated veins and margins, with textures that range from smooth and crinkled to rough and waxy. When managed properly, they can prove to be low-maintenance border plants.
Many hosta cultivars have been developed to thrive in partial to deep shade. Full sun can damage their tender leaves, causing them to dry out or become scorched. Moreover, exposure to harsh elements can induce leaf browning. A protected location receiving but a few hours of morning sun should lead to the highest growth and flowering rates. Once your rows of hostas are mature, you’ll find that they are more likely to tolerate brief droughts or imperfect moisture conditions.
6) Hellebores (Helleborus spp.)
Members of the Helleborus genus usually thrive in areas receiving shade through most of the day. Morning sun is definitely beneficial, encouraging the production of more spring blooms, but excess sun may adversely affect these plants. These species are generally quick to get going in spots where many other plants may struggle to become established.
One of the more popular types of hellebores, commonly called the Lenten rose (H. orientalis), is perfect for creating a low-growing shade border. As it grows to a maximum height of just 18 inches (46 cm), it can be situated at the forefront of mixed-species rows. It favors humus-rich, well-draining substrates that routinely receive ample moisture. Hardy to zones 3 – 9, it may require heavier shade through summer.
Compact and hardy, hellebores are some of the first perennials to produce blooms in spring. These come in the loveliest shades of rose pink, muted purple, cream, or yellow-green. Some hybrids produce variegated leaves that bring year-round interest to diverse borders. It’s important to note, however, that all parts of these plants are toxic to pets.
7) False goat’s beard (Astilbe spp.)
If your shade borders are in dire need of color and texture, look no further than your local plant nursery’s selection of astilbes. These flowering perennials are known for producing some of the most vivid inflorescences in their natural habitats, which include woodland forests and ravines. Wherever they have dense wild stands, they can significantly change the color of the landscape, attracting hordes of pollinators and beneficial insects.
Imagine the most delicate splashes of reds, pinks, purples, and creams adding vibrance to your garden from late spring to summer. Pretty much anyone who’s had experience growing astilbes can attest to the excitement of anticipating these plants’ fabulous blooms. Partial shade promotes the highest flowering rates, though some cultivars may even send out blooms in full shade.
Full sun can quickly damage the tender, fern-like foliage of astilbes. Ample moisture may help offset the ill effects of direct sun. Pondside borders receiving dappled shade are especially ideal for astilbe cultivation. Mature specimens may even tolerate water-logged conditions.
8) Japanese laurel (Aucuba japonica)
Japanese laurel, also known as the gold dust plant or the spotted laurel, is favored by landscapers for its capacity to thrive in one of the most challenging garden environments. Mature stands of this plant can be maintained as a hedge or natural border in dry shade. Their tough shoots are also able to tolerate exposure to pollutants and winds. Despite their hardy nature, however, their exposure to summer sun can cause chlorosis.
This species produces leathery leaves with bright, randomly-oriented speckles. In some cultivars, the speckles can be crowded enough to alter the color of large sections of the leaf. The variegated foliage is elegantly complemented by purple blooms in spring. As this species is dioecious, its female plants need to be close to male specimens in order to produce fruits.
In the wild, Japanese laurel favors moist locations, such as the partially shaded zones of forests and valleys with meandering streams. An evergreen perennial, this shrub can measure as much as 10 feet (3 meters) tall in optimal conditions. Regular pruning is a great way to maintain its shape and encourage new growth.
9) Columbine (Aquilegia spp.)
Columbines are often cultivated for their fascinating flowers, which can resemble the shape of an eagle’s talons. The forms of these blooms have evolved to attract specialized pollinators. Those of some species can be linked to a single type of bee, moth, or hummingbird. Generally, however, the foliage is readily consumed by a variety of insect larvae.
Clearly, these plants are perfect for attracting a unique set of animals to your shade garden. Naturally found as wildflowers in the dappled shade of woodland habitats, they can be grown beneath the canopies of trees, in the shade of extensive shrubs, or along the edges of a poorly-lit path. Though they are fairly short-lived, they readily self-seed to produce reliable colonies.
If you’re interested in cultivating a selection of columbine species, note that they may hybridize with one another. Plant them in dedicated borders or place other shade plants in between single-species stands to prevent cross-fertilization.
10) Elephant ear (Caladium spp.)
Adored by tropical gardeners for their festive and large foliage, elephant ear plants are set apart by their vivid patterns of white, pink, red, or green streaks. The arrowhead-shaped foliage requires protection from direct sun, which can cause them to become scorched or lose their fantastic colors. While sun-resistant cultivars have now been developed, these plants are usually healthiest in partial to deep shade.
Caladiums can be planted in pots and dedicated beds, as specimen plants in a shade garden, or as vibrant colonies for a textural border. Most of the modern cultivars are hybrids of C. bicolor, which is commonly referred to as the ‘Heart of Jesus’. This species has heart-shaped leaves with striking red blotches and streaks. It favors warm temperatures and moderate moisture levels throughout the growing season.
Though elephant ears are tropical staples, gardeners in temperate zones need not be discouraged by their need for warmth. They can simply be treated as annual bulbs and planted once the final frosts have passed. As they thrive in shade, they can also be grown in indoor locations with filtered or bright, indirect light.
