Sanguinaria canadensis 'Multiplex'
Plants for shady areas include Hostas, Trilliums and Epimediums. The light colored leaves of many Hostas look good in contrast to the darkness of a woodland garden. The bright colored flowers of the delicate Epimediums and the beautiful patterns of the Trillium foliage will delight for many years to come.
One plant that stands out in the woodland garden is Sanguinaria canadensis (Bloodroot). This native member of the poppy family blooms in early spring. The six inch flower stalks are topped with one inch white daisies and prefer a moist setting. Other wet shade plants are Lobelia (Cardinal flower) and Colocasia (Elephant Ear). Lobelia has beautiful flowers of pink, orange and red. Even though many Colocasias are full sun plants, there are some that like a shaded area such as the Colocasia fallax or the Colocasia heterochroma.
Flowers that grow in shade under dry conditions are a special breed. Not only are many plants stressed because of low light, they often have to compete with other plants for soil moisture. Plants for shady areas that do well under these circumstances are Aspidistra (Cast Iron Plant), Danae (Poet's Laurel) and Cyclamen.
Hellebores (Lenten Rose) are a winter blooming shade perennial for the woodland garden. In addition to their great foliage and beautiful flowers, they are also deer resistant. Here at Plant Delights Nursery, we grow many plants for shady areas. You can visit our online catalog and place your order 24 hours a day. Your flowers that grow in shade will be delivered to your door when it is the right time to plant in your hardiness zone. We hope you'll enjoy!