Shade Tolerant Plants That Bring Lush Life to Dim Spaces

It can be tough to figure out how to bring plants into parts of your home that don’t get much light but it can also feel really satisfying. Plants that can grow in the shade bring some color and energy to dim spots like balconies that don’t get much sun or gardens that are covered by heavy tree branches. In this article we will look at some great options for plants that thrive in the shade and how they can bring a lively touch to your darker areas.

Getting to know how plants handle shade

Before we get into the details about different plants we should first look at what shade tolerance really is. Plants that can grow in the shade do well even when there is not much sunlight compared to those that prefer bright light. Some plants that can handle shade like indirect light but there are others that thrive even in low light. You need to figure out how much shade is in your area like if it’s completely shaded partly shaded or has some sunlight coming through so you can pick the right plants.

Best Plants for Shady Areas

1. Hostas are plants that many people like to grow in their gardens.
Hostas are popular plants for gardens in shady spots because of their beautiful leaves. Hostas come in many leaf colors like dark green and blue-grey and they can even have mixed patterns. They can really bring some variety and depth to your garden. They like being in some shade instead of complete shade and can handle dry dirt which makes them good choices for darker spots.

2. Ferns are those green plants that grow in shady spots and have leaves that look like delicate fingers reaching out.
Ferns are great plants for shady areas and they can make any place look a bit nicer. Their thin leaves and different surfaces do well in places that are damp and not very bright. Types like Boston Ferns and Maidenhair Ferns thrive in wet soil which helps to create a green and leafy atmosphere.

3. Heuchera is a plant often called Coral Bells.
Heucheras have leaves that come in many colors like dark purple and bright orange and green. They are great for adding some life to shady areas or pots on your patio. These tough plants like some shade and can grow in different kinds of soil.

4. Bergenia is a type of plant that has big leaves and pretty flowers.
Bergenia is a strong plant that people sometimes call "Elephant Ears" and it works well for bringing a striking look to shady spots in the garden. Bergenia has big thick leaves that change to a reddish-brown when it gets cooler. It does well in shady spots and adds some color throughout the year.

5. Astilbe is a type of plant that has feathery flowers and grows well in shady areas.
Astilbes are great for bringing some color to dark spots in the garden. Their fluffy flowers come in shades of white pink and purple. These plants need regular watering and do well in wet shady areas such as around ponds or water features.

6. Japanese forest grass is a plant known for its graceful appearance and lush green leaves.
If you want to create a striking look in a shady garden Japanese Forest Grass makes a great choice for ground cover. Its curved leaves that look a bit like bamboo bring a sense of liveliness and a hint of something different to any area.

7. Lungwort is a plant known for its unique leaves and flowers.
Lungworts have interesting spotted leaves and they bloom in early spring which makes them a nice choice for adding some color and texture to shady areas. They like being in some shade instead of complete shade and do best in soil that drains well.

Taking care of plants that prefer shade

Shade-tolerant plants still need certain care to stay healthy and look good. Make sure your plants are in soil that drains well so they don't get too much water. Some plants such as ferns like it when it's humid but others need less water after they get settled in. Check your shade plants often for bugs or sickness because dark spots can sometimes hide these problems.

Making Shade Gardens That Work Well Together

If you are setting up a garden in the shade or a spot for plants indoors that don’t get much light think about using a variety of textures heights and colors to make it more appealing. Use different types of plants like low ground covers small bushes and taller trees to create a look similar to a natural forest. Putting down mulch helps keep the soil moist and makes your shaded area look more complete.

If you want to make dark areas feel more alive you can try using plants that do well in the shade. If you pick the right plants and learn what they need, those dark corners of your yard can turn into beautiful green spaces.