I'm looking to spruce up my east-facing garden border, which has been looking pretty sad throughout winter. It only gets sunlight in the morning from March to September due to shadows from nearby houses, and I've found that many plants either grow too large or just don't thrive in low light. I used to have a Cornus there, but it didn't show off nice winter colors. I'd love to hear your suggestions for shade-friendly plants that will keep the space looking cheerful even after the flowers fade!
5 Answers
In my shady garden, I incorporate ferns, grasses, and winter-blooming Hellebores for plenty of greenery all year round. I also mix in various shade-loving perennials like Cyclamen in winter, then Snowdrops and Wood Anemones in spring. Pots help me manage the heights and colors throughout the seasons!
For shady areas, I've had great success with Heuchera (like 'Sweet Tea'), Hellebores, Liriope Muscari, and Pachysandra Terminalis. They all keep their looks through winter and are super hardy. Plus, I've found that Pieris does alright in these conditions too. Hostas are good, but just be aware of slugs!
I've found Carex Oshimensis (you can get golden or striped varieties) really shines in shade. You can also go for Harts Tongue Fern, Epimediums, and Ajuga Reptans. They’re resilient, evergreen, and need minimal maintenance!
Sarcococca is an awesome evergreen, loving the shade and blooming fragrant white flowers in the winter. Also consider Gaultheria Procumbens for its cute red berries. Ferns, Bleeding Hearts, and Japanese Forest Grass are all lovely choices too!
Sarcococca sounds perfect! I've seen it look stunning even in the dreariest winters.
Try adding a Camellia – it’s evergreen and has gorgeous flowers this time of year. Japanese Maples can also work if your area is sheltered from wind, but they do lose leaves in winter. Azaleas and Rhododendrons bloom wonderfully in spring/summer and are mostly evergreen, making them great for shade as well.
Great idea with the pots! It really lets you experiment without committing to one spot.