Shade Perennials Just because some homeowners have properties that get limited sunlight doesn't mean they can't enjoy beautiful, shade-loving plants and flowers. For the garden-loving homeowner, mature trees cause a conundrum: no one wants to remove a stately shade tree that took decades to mature, but trees are sun and moisture hogs that won't share their turf with just any plant. A shade garden can add interest and color to an uninspired all-green canvas. It is a woodland plant in many areas of North America, so it is a no-brainer for woodland gardens. While it is grouped with other shade perennials, it can stand some sunlight if watered enough. Zone 7: Plant in spring or early fall; mulch in fall; plant in light to partial shade; pull back mulch in early spring; divide in spring. Its flowers start out pink-lavender but later change to deep blue. Zone 5: Plant in spring to prevent winter heaving; plant in full sun; apply extra mulch after first hard frost; avoid contact with salt. Leafminer insects do mark up the leaves, but some gardeners find the meandering mining tunnels on the leaves attractive. Zone 7: Plant in spring or fall; mulch after first hard frost; pull back mulch in early spring; divide in fall or as new growth appears in early spring; protect from deer in prone areas. One type of hosta recommended to dress up a shady spot is Halcyon hosta. Gardener's Note: Ornamental Purple Millet is prohibited in Colorado because it is invasive there. But it can also be grown in spots that are too wet for many other plants to handle. A perennial is a plant that regrows every spring without replanting. Zone 9: Plant in early fall; plant in full sun to light shade; provide supplemental water during dry spells. Shade can mean partial shade or full shade. Shady spots are sometimes considered problem areas where beautiful plants cannot grow. But Jack-in-the-pulpit rewards those willing to forgive its lack of showy flowers with a brightly-colored bunch of red berries. These spots offer a great opportunity to take advantage of spring bulbs to add color to your landscape. Looking for something to plant in that shady area of your garden? Prune back to ground in late winter to early spring; fertilize in spring. Zone 3: Plant in spring to prevent winter heaving; plant in full sun; mulch after first hard frost; avoid contact with salt; water when dry. Zone 5: Plant in early fall; plant in full sun to light shade; mulch after planting; avoid contact with salt. Introducing new crops later, such as coral bells, might damage their roots. If you want the crops you plant under full shade in your garden to thrive, you should: Plant your shrubs and perennials while planting the trees or shortly after. Zone 5: Plant in spring to prevent winter heaving; plant in full sun; mulch after first hard frost; avoid contact with salt; water when dry. Generally speaking, the unique shape of columbine is what makes them so special. Plant in moist to average garden soil that is high in organic matter. Fortunately, there are a number of perennials … Aster novi-belgii 'Frida Ballard' (aka Symphyotrichum novi-belgii). Seeds freely. Upright ornamental grass with reddish-green foliage that turns bright red in the fall. However, all my … Zone 8: Plant in fall; plant in full; provide supplemental water during dry spells. But D. spectabilis 'Gold Heart' may turn the most heads with its leaves, which have a bright golden color. Garden experts offer planting information for 11 shade trees and easy-care perennials. Troubleshoot common problems, like disease, wilt and other reasons why plants fail to flower. In addition to these perennials, also consider annuals and some great biennials, such as foxglove (digitalis) for the shade garden. Zone 4: Plant in spring to prevent winter heaving; mulch heavily after first hard frost; pull back mulch in early spring; divide as new growth appears in early spring; protect from deer in prone areas. Oak trees make excellent shade trees, particularly the pin oak (Quercus palustris), red oak (Q. borealis) and white oak (Q. alba) species. Fall-blooming perennial with white daisy-like flowers with yellow centers. Such is the case for Lenten rose (Helleborus orientalis). A shady backyard doesn't have to be considered a problem area. Even shade-loving perennials need a small amount of sunlight. Some types (such as R. aesculifolia) have leaves like those on a horse chestnut tree (Aesculus). The Spruce uses cookies to provide you with a great user experience. Although no spring bulbs were included in this list, shade gardeners should remember to take advantage of these earliest bloomers. This perennial for shade certainly is not grown for its flowers. Zone 6: Plant in spring; mulch in fall; plant in full sun to partial shade; pull back mulch in early spring; divide in spring. Zone 6: Plant in spring or early fall; plant in full sun to partial shade. These trees will not only provide you with a shady retreat quickly, but they will also furnish a display that adds visual interest to your landscape. Like other plants with silver foliage, this ground cover can help brighten shady areas and make them seem less gloomy. One type of hosta recommended to dress up a shady spot is Halcyon hosta. Aster novi-belgii 'Margrethe Viking' (aka Symphyotrichum novi-belgii). Don't miss your favorite shows in real time online. Zone 4: Plant in spring to prevent winter heaving; plant in full sun; mulch after first hard frost; avoid contact with salt; water when dry. Inniswood hostas should be planted in partial to full shade. Browse a full list of topics found on the site, from accessories to mudrooms to wreaths. This kind of shade is ideal for most perennial shade flowers, particularly if the soil is enriched and the area sheltered from hot dry winds. There are some similar perennials related to Purple Dragon deadnettle, but avoid yellow archangel. Popular white/green variegated Hosta with lavender flowers. Rogers flower does bear blooms, but it is valued more for its big, pretty leaves. Most consider this an acceptable price to pay because the flowers of this spring plant make it worthwhile. Plant in moist, but well-drained organic soil. Most of the plants listed here will do best if they receive at least some indirect light. By using The Spruce, you accept our, Smart and Sensational Design Ideas for Shade Gardens, 15 Best Zone 8 Plants to Put In Your Garden, 15 Best Zone 7 Plants to Put In Your Garden, 30 Easy-to-Grow Perennials for Beginning Gardeners, 11 Good Shade Plants to Grow Along a North-Facing Wall, 11 Best Perennial Flowers for Early Spring, 10 Best Flowering Plants That Deer Will Not Eat, 11 Best Flowering Perennials for Shady Gardens, 9 Best Shade-Loving Perennials for Michigan Gardens. Let's get together. These 12 suggested perennial plants will help transform your shaded spot from a problem area to a location you are proud of. Perennials are beautiful when in bloom and can make for a stunning display. These perennials thrive without sunlight and add great garden color in beds, borders and containers. Choose below from our full shade perennials. This is a tiny plant, essentially a wildflower. Be aware that deadnettle can spread aggressively, so plant it only in an area where you seek a true groundcover. Zone 6: Plant in spring or fall; mulch after first hard frost; pull back mulch in early spring; divide as new growth appears in early spring; protect from deer in prone areas. Some kinds of Ligularia have spots, thus the common name, Leopard plant. It is a lovely plant but tends to be invasive. Partial shade is when a plant … Plant in rich, moist but well-drained soil. Fast-growing and reaching a mature height of 60 to 70 feet and spread of 25 to 40 feet, the pin oak’s unique branching formation provides dappled to dense shade. Learn about 15 plants and the planting information for specific zones. Plant in average garden soil that is moist but well-drained.