The Best Shade-Loving Perennials

In gardening terms, shade means an area that receives less than three hours of direct sunlight per day, and part-shade means it receives between 3-6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Shade can be heavy or dappled, and any light reaching those areas can be cooler in the morning or hotter in the afternoon. So gardening in the shade comes with its own challenges, but there are several plants that thrive in shadier conditions, and can provide flowers and ornamental features through several seasons. Here are some of the best shade-loving perennials to try in your garden.

See more shade-loving perennials in this Perennial Plant Association brochure.

Hosta
Fern
Epimedium
Brunnera
Lungwort
Solomon’s Seal
Columbine
Astilbe
Vinca, also known as Periwinkle
Ajuga
Lioriope
Hellebore
Toad Lily
Monkshood
Wild Ginger
Heuchera
Spiderwort or Tradescantia
Tiarella, also known as Foam Flower
Lily of the Valley