Best Plants for a Shade Garden: Flowers, Ferns, and Ground Covers That Thrive in Low Light

Top Shade Perennials

• Lily of the Valley: 6", fragrant white bells, excellent ground cover.
• Astilbe: Feathery plumes in many colors, 20–40", plant in clumps.
• Ostrich Fern: 50", dramatic feathery fronds, tropical look.
• Variegated Solomon's Seal: 20", yellow-rimmed leaves, white spring flowers, blue fall berries.
• Foxglove: Up to 5', tall spikes of bell flowers, biennial/perennial.
• Virginia Bluebells: 2', lavender bell clusters, very hardy.

Shade Ground Covers

Ajuga, pachysandra, sweet woodruff, lamium, wild ginger—all spread nicely in shade.

Shopping Tips

• Search catalogs for "shade-tolerant" or "part shade" labels.
• Confirm plants suit your USDA zone.
• Consult local garden center staff for regional favorites.

Design Idea

Layer heights: ground covers, mid-height perennials, tall accents. A shade garden becomes a cool, serene retreat on hot days.