Shade Plants

Normally, the north side of your home will have the most shade, however, you probably have other areas that are shaded as well by tall trees, large shrubs, tall buildings etc.

The Yew family is very shade adaptable.  These evergreens have dark green foliage, grow moderately and are easy to prune and maintain.  The spreading or globe variety can be shaped round, oval or flat cross the top.  They can make an excellent low hedge.  The pyramidal variety can be used in a dark corner, along a fence of just about anywhere you need a little more height.  They will grow to 8-12 feet tall, but can be kept much smaller by pruning.

The Viburum family is also an excellent choice for moderately shady areas.  There are many varieties of sizes, color, and texture.  Some of the more common ones are: American Cranberry, Allegheny, Mohican, Snowball, Arrowwood, Wayfaring, Nannyberry, Opulus Nana.  These plants have a bright red to orange fall color.  They may be used for foundation, border and screen plantings.

Hydrangeas are also good shade plants.  They have a soft, green wood that can be cut back near the ground each fall or spring and they will grow back again each year.

Azaleas, rhododendrons are also very popular for shady areas.

Alpine currant is a low growing plant that can be used a low hedge (3-5’).  They are easy to prune and maintain and are not bothered by insects and disease.

Buckthorns grow columnar and can be used in a small spot for a taller hedge (6-10’).

Dogwoods, Cotoneaster, Winterberry Holly, Juneberry, Quince, Snowberry and Spireas are other popular flowering plants that tolerate shade well.

Numerous perennials enjoy shade such as: hostas, astilbes, snow on the mountain, brunnera, bergenia, lily in the valley, bleeding heart, ferns, pulmonaria, vinca.