Plants that Grow in Shade
Keep in mind there are different kinds of shade. There is shade from the afternoon sun, dappled shade, and complete shade such as under a covered walkway. However, our summer sun can be so intense that many plants can survive on reflected heat and light. Remember that shady areas can get extemely dry as tree roots pull up available moisture. That means that even if a plant is recommended for shade, it doesn't mean it is drought tolerant, so choose carefully.
My Favorite Plants that thrive in shade:
Shrimp Plant (Justica brandegeana)
Turk's Cap (Malvaviscus arboreus)
Columbine (Aquilegia)
Cedar Sage (Salvia roemeriana)
Spider Lilies (Hymenocallus)
Elephant Ears (Colocasia)
Violets
Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra)
Gingers
Mexican Plum
American Beauty Berry (Callicarpa americana)
Yaupon Holly
Oak Leaf Hydrangea (Hydrangea quercifolia)
Rose of Sharon
Inland Sea Oats
Plumbago
Cool Season Herbs such as: Fennel, Dill, Oregano and Parsley
Don't forget to ask your nursery representative, if you are shopping at a local nursery, what suggestions he or she might have for plants that can handle shade.
For more info and plant, seed, and book sources see: www.biglump.com
Published by Jim Gober
Jim Gober is a professional garden writer and farmer from Central Texas. He is a Master Gardener and Certified Texas Nursery and Landscape Professional. Known as the Big Lump Gardener, he holds degrees in Bu... View profile
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