30+ Shade Perennials: Plants and Flowers for a Stunning Garden

Discover the allure of shade gardening with these captivating shade perennials! From vibrant blooms to lush foliage, explore a world of color and texture that thrives in the dappled light of your garden’s shaded corners. Unveil the secrets to creating a vibrant and thriving shade garden oasis with these enduring and enchanting plants.

30+ Shade Loving Perennials

shade perennials plants and flowers for a stunning garden

Unlock the beauty of your shaded spaces with our curated collection of 33 shade-loving perennials! From delicate ferns to vibrant blooms, these enduring plants bring life and color to even the darkest corners of your garden. Explore a diverse array of options guaranteed to thrive in low-light conditions, transforming your landscape into a lush and inviting retreat.

Ajuga

Ajuga, also known as Bugleweed, is a low-growing ground cover with colorful foliage and spikes of blue, purple, or white flowers. It spreads quickly, making it ideal for filling in bare spots in shade perennial gardens. Explore this stunning variety of Burgundy Glow Ajuga.

Suggested Hardiness Zones: 3-9
Size: 6-9 inches (15-23 cm) tall, spreading up to 24 inches (61 cm) wide.
Care Requirements: Partial to full shade; well-drained soil.
Expected Blooming: Spring

Astilbe

Astilbe is a beloved choice among shade perennials. It features feathery plumes of flowers in various colors, including pink, red, white, and lavender. It thrives in moist, shady areas, adding texture and vibrant color to garden beds. Discover the beauty of this Astilbe variety.

Suggested Hardiness Zones: 4-9
Size: 12-36 inches (30-91 cm) tall, spreading 12-24 inches (30-61 cm) wide.
Care Requirements: Partial to full shade; moist, well-drained soil.
Expected Blooming: Summer

Autumn Fern

Autumn Fern is valued for its attractive, coppery-red new growth that matures to a glossy green. It adds vibrant color and texture to shady areas, forming clumps of arching fronds. Explore this stunning Autumn Fern.

Suggested Hardiness Zones: 5-9
Size: 18-24 inches (46-61 cm) tall and wide.
Care Requirements: Partial to full shade; moist, well-drained soil.
Expected Blooming: N/A (Fern)

Barrenwort

Barrenwort, also known as Epimedium, is a sought-after choice among shade perennial flowering plants. It is celebrated for its delicate, heart-shaped leaves and dainty spring flowers. Flourishing in dry shade, it forms spreading clumps, effortlessly enhancing shaded landscapes. Discover the enchantment of this stunning Barrenwort.

Suggested Hardiness Zones: 4-9
Size: 8-12 inches (20-30 cm) tall, spreading 12-18 inches (30-46 cm) wide.
Care Requirements: Partial to full shade; well-drained, humus-rich soil.
Expected Blooming: Spring

Bergenia Cordifolia

Cordifolia, or Heartleaf Bergenia, displays bold, leathery leaves and clusters of pink or white flowers in early spring. It’s a rugged perennial that thrives in challenging conditions. Discover the enchantment of this Bergenia Cordifolia.

Suggested Hardiness Zones: 3-8
Size: 12-24 inches (30-61 cm) tall and wide.
Care Requirements: Full sun to partial shade; moist, well-drained soil.
Expected Blooming: Spring

Bigroot Geranium

Bigroot Geranium, or Geranium macrorrhizum, stands out as a resilient choice among perennials thriving in a partial shade garden. It boasts aromatic foliage and delicate pink flowers. This tough and versatile perennial forms dense mats, effectively suppressing weeds while enhancing shaded areas. Explore this stunning variety of Bigroot Geranium.

Suggested Hardiness Zones: 4-8
Size: 12-18 inches (30-46 cm) tall and wide.
Care Requirements: Full sun to partial shade; well-drained soil.
Expected Blooming: Late spring to early summer

Brunnera

Brunnera, or Siberian Bugloss, is prized for its heart-shaped, silver-spotted leaves and sprays of forget-me-not-like blue flowers. This perennial plant with little light blue flowers thrives in even full, shady areas and adds charm to woodland gardens. Explore this stunning Brunnera plant.

Suggested Hardiness Zones: 3-8
Size: 12-18 inches (30-46 cm) tall and wide.
Care Requirements: Partial to full shade; moist, well-drained soil.
Expected Blooming: Spring

Christmas Rose

Christmas Rose, scientifically known as Helleborus niger, emerges as a cherished evergreen among shade perennials, celebrated for its enchanting early winter blooms. With large, showy flowers in shades of white, pink, or purple, it often graces the garden landscape amidst the winter snow. Explore this stunning variety of Christmas roses.

Suggested Hardiness Zones: 4-9
Size: 12-18 inches (30-46 cm) tall and wide.
Care Requirements: Partial shade; moist, well-drained soil.
Expected Blooming: Winter

Cinnamon Fern

The Cinnamon Fern is a striking fern species known for its upright fronds and cinnamon-colored fertile fronds. It adds a tropical touch to moist, shady gardens and thrives in wet soil conditions. Discover the beauty of this Cinnamon Fern.

Suggested Hardiness Zones: 3-9
Size: 24-36 inches (61-91 cm) tall and wide.
Care Requirements: Partial to full shade; consistently moist soil.
Expected Blooming: N/A (Fern)

Columbine

Columbine is a charming perennial with delicate, spurred flowers in a variety of colors. It readily attracts pollinators and self-seeds, naturalizing them in gardens and woodland areas. Explore this stunning variety of Columbine Blue Barlow.

Suggested Hardiness Zones: 3-9
Size: 18-36 inches (46-91 cm) tall, spreading 12-24 inches (30-61 cm) wide.
Care Requirements: Partial shade to full sun; well-drained soil.
Expected Blooming: Late spring to early summer

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Coral Bells

Coral Bells, or Heuchera, are valued for their colorful foliage and delicate, bell-shaped flowers. They come in a range of hues and add texture to borders, rock gardens, and containers.

Suggested Hardiness Zones: 3-9
Size: 12-18 inches (30-46 cm) tall and wide.
Care Requirements: Partial shade to full sun; well-drained soil.
Expected Blooming: Late spring to early summer

Deadnettle

Deadnettle, also known as Lamium, is a favored choice among perennials for shaded gardens. It is valued for its variegated foliage and petite, hooded flowers. Flourishing in shady areas, it spreads rapidly, creating lush, dense mats that effortlessly enhance garden landscapes. Discover the beauty of this Deadnettle variety.

Suggested Hardiness Zones: 3-8
Size: 6-12 inches (15-30 cm) tall, spreading up to 24 inches (61 cm) wide.
Care Requirements: Partial to full shade; well-drained soil.
Expected Blooming: Spring to early summer

Fern-Leaf Bleeding Heart

Fern-Leaf Bleeding Heart, or Dicentra, is a delicate perennial with finely cut, fern-like foliage and dangling heart-shaped flowers. It adds elegance to woodland gardens and shady borders. Explore this stunning variety of Fern-Leaf Bleeding Hearts.

Suggested Hardiness Zones: 3-9
Size: 12-24 inches (30-61 cm) tall and wide.
Care Requirements: Partial to full shade; moist, well-drained soil.
Expected Blooming: Late spring to early summer

Foamflower

Foamflower, or Tiarella, is a charming woodland perennial with airy spikes of tiny flowers and attractive foliage. It spreads gradually, forming dense clumps and adding grace to shady gardens.

Suggested Hardiness Zones: 4-9
Size: 6-12 inches (15-30 cm) tall, spreading 12-18 inches (30-46 cm) wide.
Care Requirements: Partial to full shade; moist, well-drained soil.
Expected Blooming: Spring to early summer

Foamy Bells

Foamy Bells, or Heucherella, are prized for their colorful foliage and airy sprays of tiny flowers. They combine the best traits of Heuchera and Tiarella, adding texture and interest to shady gardens. Foamy bells are hybrids resulting from crosses between Heuchera (Coral Bells) and Tiarella (Foamflower).

One of the most enchanting aspects of Foamy Bells, in my opinion, lies in their exquisite growth when cultivated in pots. They possess a natural affinity for containers, flourishing effortlessly and adorning every inch of the vessel with their lush foliage. With Foamy Bells, there’s no requirement for additional fillers or the need to complement them with other plants; they stand alone, transforming any container into a verdant masterpiece. Explore this stunning Foamy Bells plant.

Suggested Hardiness Zones: 4-9
Size: 6-12 inches (15-30 cm) tall, spreading 12-18 inches (30-46 cm) wide.
Care Requirements: Partial shade to full sun; moist, well-drained soil.
Expected Blooming: Late spring to early summer

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Golden Star

Golden Star, scientifically named Chrysogonum virginianum, shines as a captivating option among shade perennial plants, boasting low-growing stature and vibrant, star-shaped yellow flowers. It forms expansive mats of foliage, blooming profusely to attract pollinators and infuse the shaded garden with lively charm.

Suggested Hardiness Zones: 5-9
Size: 6-12 inches (15-30 cm) tall, spreading 12-18 inches (30-46 cm) wide.
Care Requirements: Partial to full shade; moist, well-drained soil.
Expected Blooming: Spring to early summer

Heartleaf Brunnera macrophylla “Jack of Diamonds”

heatleaf brunnera macrophylla perennial flowers

Heartleaf Brunnera, “Jack of Diamonds”, is a cultivar known for its large, heart-shaped leaves with silver markings and airy clusters of blue flowers. It adds texture and color to shady gardens. Explore this stunning variety of “Jack of Diamonds”

Suggested Hardiness Zones: 3-8
Size: 12-18 inches (30-46 cm) tall and wide.
Care Requirements: Partial to full shade; moist, well-drained soil.
Expected Blooming: Spring

Hellebore

Hellebore, commonly known as Lenten Rose, emerges as a sought-after choice among shade perennials, cherished for its enchanting early spring blooms and enduring evergreen foliage. With a palette of various colors, it effortlessly enhances shaded areas, blooming when few other plants can. Discover the beauty of this Hellebore plant.

Suggested Hardiness Zones: 4-9
Size: 12-18 inches (30-46 cm) tall and wide.
Care Requirements: Partial shade; moist, well-drained soil.
Expected Blooming: Late winter to early spring

Hellebore Onyx Odyssey

Hellebore Onyx Odyssey is a cultivar with striking, nearly black flowers and glossy foliage. It adds drama to shady gardens and pairs well with other early spring bloomers.

Suggested Hardiness Zones: 4-9
Size: 12-18 inches (30-46 cm) tall and wide.
Care Requirements: Partial shade; moist, well-drained soil.
Expected Blooming: Late winter to early spring

Hostas

Hosta, a beloved option among shade perennials, is renowned for its abundant and vibrant foliage, available in a multitude of shapes, sizes, and colors. During the summer months, it also showcases elegant spikes of lavender, white, or purple flowers, drawing the enchanting presence of hummingbirds. Explore this diverse mix of Hosta plants.

Suggested Hardiness Zones: 3-9
Size: 12-36 inches (30-91 cm) tall and wide, depending on variety.
Care Requirements: Partial to full shade; moist, well-drained soil.
Expected Blooming: Summer

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Japanese Forest Grass

Japanese Forest Grass, or Hakonechloa, is an elegant grass species appreciated for its arching, cascading habit, and golden or variegated foliage. It adds texture and movement to shady gardens. Explore this Japanese Forest Grass.

Suggested Hardiness Zones: 5-9
Size: 12-18 inches (30-46 cm) tall and wide.
Care Requirements: Partial shade to full sun; consistently moist, well-drained soil.
Expected Blooming: N/A (Ornamental Grass)

Japanese Painted Fern

Japanese Painted Fern is a stunning fern variety with silver and burgundy fronds that add contrast to shaded areas. It’s prized for its colorful foliage and graceful arching habit. Discover the beauty of this Japanese Painted Fern.

Suggested Hardiness Zones: 4-8
Size: 12-18 inches (30-46 cm) tall and wide.
Care Requirements: Partial to full shade; consistently moist, well-drained soil.
Expected Blooming: N/A (Fern)

Lilyturf

Lilyturf, or Liriope, is a grass-like perennial with strappy foliage and spikes of purple or white flowers. It’s valued for its low-maintenance nature and ability to thrive in shade. Explore this stunning Lilyturf.

Suggested Hardiness Zones: 5-10
Size: 12-18 inches (30-46 cm) tall, spreading 12-24 inches (30-61 cm) wide.
Care Requirements: Partial to full shade; well-drained soil.
Expected Blooming: Late summer to early fall

Lungwort

Lungwort, also known as Pulmonaria, is a beloved choice among shade perennial plants. It is adorned with distinctive spotted foliage and charming clusters of pink, blue, or white flowers. Gardeners appreciate its early blooms and its prowess in attracting pollinators.

Suggested Hardiness Zones: 3-8
Size: 8-12 inches (20-30 cm) tall and wide.
Care Requirements: Partial to full shade; moist, well-drained soil.
Expected Blooming: Spring

Northern Maidenhair Fern

Northern Maidenhair Fern, or Adiantum pedatum, is a delicate fern species with fan-shaped fronds on black stems. It thrives in moist, shady areas and adds elegance to woodland gardens.

Suggested Hardiness Zones: 3-8
Size: 12-24 inches (30-61 cm) tall and wide.
Care Requirements: Partial to full shade; consistently moist soil.
Expected Blooming: N/A (Fern)

Old-Fashioned Bleeding Heart

Old-fashioned Bleeding Heart, or Dicentra spectabilis, is a classic perennial with arching stems of heart-shaped flowers. Gardeners cherish its nostalgic charm and early spring blooms.

Suggested Hardiness Zones: 3-9
Size: 24-36 inches (61-91 cm) tall and wide.
Care Requirements: Partial shade to full shade; moist, well-drained soil.
Expected Blooming: Spring

Phlox

Phlox is a diverse genus of flowering plants, including perennial and annual species. Its clusters of colorful flowers in various hues add vibrancy to garden borders and rock gardens. Explore this stunning Phlox plant.

Suggested Hardiness Zones: 3-9, depending on species
Size: Varies widely depending on species and cultivar.
Care Requirements: Full sun to partial shade; moist, well-drained soil.
Expected Blooming: Spring to summer, depending on species

Primrose

Primrose, or Primula, is a spring-blooming perennial with clusters of colorful flowers atop rosettes of foliage. It adds cheerful color to early spring gardens and thrives in cool, moist conditions.

Suggested Hardiness Zones: 3-8
Size: 6-12 inches (15-30 cm) tall and wide.
Care Requirements: Partial shade to full sun; consistently moist, well-drained soil.
Expected Blooming: Spring

Toad Lily

Toad Lily, or Tricyrtis, is a unique shade-loving perennial with orchid-like flowers speckled with spots. It blooms late in the season, adding interest to shady areas when many other plants have finished flowering.

Suggested Hardiness Zones: 4-9
Size: 12-36 inches (30-91 cm) tall, spreading 12-24 inches (30-61 cm) wide.
Care Requirements: Partial to full shade; consistently moist, well-drained soil.
Expected Blooming: Late summer to fall

Virginia Bluebells

Virginia Bluebells, or Mertensia virginica, are ephemeral spring-blooming perennials with clusters of pink buds opening into bell-shaped blue flowers. They add a burst of color to woodland gardens before going dormant in summer.

Suggested Hardiness Zones: 3-8
Size: 12-24 inches (30-61 cm) tall and wide.
Care Requirements: Partial shade to full shade; consistently moist, well-drained soil.
Expected Blooming: Spring

Wild Ginger

Wild Ginger, also known as Asarum, is a cherished option among shade perennial plants. It is valued for its low stature and captivating heart-shaped leaves, which conceal unique flowers beneath the foliage. With a gradual spread, it forms lush mats, enriching shaded areas with its understated charm.

Suggested Hardiness Zones: 4-9
Size: 6-12 inches (15-30 cm) tall, spreading 12-24 inches (30-61 cm) wide.
Care Requirements: Partial to full shade; consistently moist, well-drained soil.
Expected Blooming: Spring

Woodland Phlox

Woodland Phlox, also known as Phlox divaricata, is a beloved choice among shade perennials. It boasts fragrant, star-shaped flowers in delightful shades of blue, pink, or white. Flourishing in shady woodland areas, it forms spreading clumps, adding enchanting beauty to natural settings.

Suggested Hardiness Zones: 3-8
Size: 12-18 inches (30-46 cm) tall and wide.
Care Requirements: Partial shade to full shade; consistently moist, well-drained soil.
Expected Blooming: Spring

At a Glance Shade Perennial Plants and Flowers

Below is a chart with a summary of the shade-loving perennial plants and flowers discussed in this article.

Name	Sunlight Preference	Watering Needs	Other Care Tips	Blooming Time
Ajuga	Partial to full shade	Moderate	Spreads rapidly, well-drained soil	Spring
Astilbe	Partial to full shade	Moist	Mulch to retain moisture, avoid dry soil	Summer
Autumn Fern	Partial to full shade	Consistently moist	Maintain soil moisture, protect from wind	N/A (Fern)
Barrenwort	Partial to full shade	Moderate	Drought tolerant once established	Spring
Bergenia Cordiflora	Full sun to partial shade	Moist	Divide every few years to rejuvenate	Spring
Bigroot Geranium	Full sun to partial shade	Moderate	Prune after flowering to maintain shape	Late spring to early summer
Brunnera	Partial to full shade	Moist	Avoid wet, poorly drained soils	Spring
Christmas Rose	Partial shade	Moist	Remove old foliage in spring	Winter
Cinnamon Fern	Partial to full shade	Consistently moist	Provide ample moisture, avoid hot, dry sites	N/A (Fern)
Columbine	Partial shade to full sun	Moderate	Deadhead to prolong flowering	Late spring to early summer
Coral Bells	Partial shade to full sun	Moist	Divide every few years to maintain vigor	Late spring to early summer
Deadnettle	Partial to full shade	Moderate	Tolerates dry soil, remove spent blooms	Spring to early summer
Fern-Leaf Bleeding Heart	Partial to full shade	Moist	Mulch to retain moisture, divide every 3-5 years	Late spring to early summer
Foamflower	Partial to full shade	Moist	Mulch to retain moisture, avoid wet feet	Spring to early summer
Foamy Bells	Partial shade to full sun	Moist	Mulch to retain moisture, divide every few years	Late spring to early summer
Golden Star	Partial to full shade	Moist	Mulch to retain moisture, remove spent blooms	Spring to early summer
Heatleaf Brunnera macrophylla “Jack of diamonds”	Partial to full shade	Moist	Mulch to retain moisture, divide every few years	Spring
Hellebore	Partial shade	Moist	Remove old foliage in late winter/early spring	Late winter to early spring
Hellebore Onyx Odyssey	Partial shade	Moist	Remove old foliage in late winter/early spring	Late winter to early spring
Hosta	Partial to full shade	Moist	Divide every few years to rejuvenate	Summer
Japanese Forestgrass	Partial shade to full sun	Consistently moist	Mulch to retain moisture, protect from hot afternoon sun	N/A (Ornamental Grass)
Japanese Painted Fern	Partial to full shade	Consistently moist	Mulch to retain moisture, avoid wet feet	N/A (Fern)
Lilyturf	Partial to full shade	Moderate	Tolerates dry soil, avoid wet feet	Late summer to early fall
Lungwort	Partial to full shade	Moist	Mulch to retain moisture, remove spent blooms	Spring
Northern Maidenhair Fern	Partial to full shade	Consistently moist	Mulch to retain moisture, protect from wind	N/A (Fern)
Old-Fashioned Bleeding Heart	Partial to full shade	Moist	Mulch to retain moisture, divide every few years	Spring
Phlox	Full sun to partial shade	Moderate	Deadhead to prolong flowering	Spring to summer
Primrose	Partial shade to full sun	Moist	Mulch to retain moisture, divide every few years	Spring
Toad Lily	Partial to full shade	Consistently moist	Mulch to retain moisture, protect from strong winds	Late summer to fall
Virginia Bluebells	Partial shade to full shade	Consistently moist	Spreads readily, self-seeds	Spring
Wild Ginger	Partial to full shade	Consistently moist	Mulch to retain moisture, spreads slowly	Spring
Woodland Phlox	Partial shade to full shade	Consistently moist	Mulch to retain moisture, remove spent blooms	Spring

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