Chicago Home and Lifestyles – 6 lush plants that can survive in the shade
We all have those areas that are too shady for many blooming plants, depriving the landscape of that splash of color that makes it really pop. Here are some colorful, but low maintenance, plants that even beginning gardeners can handle.
Hellebores are perennials that deliver year after year. They require little attention and thrive where they’re put. They bloom in late winter and early spring before anything else is in bloom, with unique flowers that range from white to pink to red. Keep in mind that they need well drained soil and do better in cooler climates!
Trifoliate bittercress is another spring bloomer with pretty, little white blooms. They are wonderful planted along a path or around shrubs that have no low hanging foliage. After blooming, you’ll love the evergreen leaves that form in slow-spreading clumps. They don’t need pruning or fertilizer, just damp soil in the shade.
Impatiens are wonderful annuals that come in many different colors and yield vibrant, long-lasting blooms that last all through the summer. You can put them just about anywhere from garden beds to hanging baskets and window boxes. Keep them watered well and you’ll appreciate their vibrant color well into fall.
Coleus is another shade-loving plant known for its vibrant foliage. They produce large velvety leaves that are multicolored, with variations in green, burgundy, yellow and red. They add visual interest, especially when used as an edging plant or a border. They have great color and texture that will stand out in a shady area. Keep them protected from afternoon sun for the best colors. They do produce small flowers that don’t require deadheading.
Blue liverleaf is a perennial that works well as a ground cover or in a rock garden as it is three to nine inches tall at maturity. It produces cup shaped blue flowers that bloom from early spring through summer. It needs well drained, moist rich soil and can thrive in full to partial shade. They do best in cool to moderate temperatures.
Lemon balm is a hardy perennial that can add ornamental beauty to your yard – and then come inside to add to salads, marinades, desserts and beverages! They have a bright citrusy scent and flavor. They also make a nice aromatic addition to flower arrangements. They have soft, textured green leaves to add ornamental beauty. They do need some sun but will tolerate partial shade with no intense afternoon sun.
Kathleen Weaver-Zech and Dean’s Team Chicago
