Question
Hello, I live in Sydney Australia and I would like to grow some plants that get no sunlight and not much light. It is in the basement flat and a little light filters in from the opening above. There are two beds surrounded by brick on the ground and there is also a brick wall that I look out onto from the french doors. the brick wall is only about 1 meter (3 feet) away. Half way up the brick wall there is a horizontal strip of dirt where one plant is growing. I was thinking to attach some tray onto the wall and put plants in flower pots in there. Or if I can grow something up the wall that would be good 2. Do you have any suggestions what could survive there and look soft and lovely to look out onto. I was thinking maybe cactus but not sure. The weather is mild never gets very cold and now we are entering spring. With thanks,
Marcea

Answer
Marcea,

I know of no plants that will live with no sun and little light. There has to be enough sun for your hand to cast a good shadow for at least 8 hours a day, preferably about 12 hours. That much light would only grow low light plants.  

Periwinkle (Vinca minor) would do well in shade - you could also try any woodland understory type of plant - toad lilies, trout lilies, ferns, etc...

You also might try "ajuga" for a shade-loving ground cover. It grows and spreads quickly and blooms purple spikes of flowers in the spring.  Miniature hosta would be another good choice. Good luck!

Darlene