Some perennials need shade to thrive and will grow well, for many years, underneath trees and beside homes. These plants will return every year to shower the garden with lovely foliage and fragrant flowers.
The many varieties of hosta (Hosta sp.) prefer shade and will return every year with full, bright foliage that grows quickly and vibrantly, as the weather warms. Astilbe (Astilbe arendsii) needs full to partial shade in order to flourish. Astilbes have beautiful, showy flower clusters, in shades of pink and red, that project above its foliage, creating a delightful, airy quality. Bleeding heart (Dicentra spectabilis) grows well tucked beneath a tree or lining the side of a building. Its tender, feathery foliage are not diminished by the beauty of its pink and white delicate blossoms that bloom early spring to early summer. Toad lilies (Tricyrtis sp.) grow naturally on the edges of forests and so will succeed in shade. Their gorgeous spotted flowers add intrigue and sparkle to the shade garden.
There are a few perennial edibles that thrive in the shade. Most members of the mint family (Mentha) like partial to full shade. These hardy perennials will spread wide, if you let them, and fill the air with fragrant leaves and flowers that may be picked and used for tea and other culinary ventures. Horseradish (Armoracia rusticana) will do well in shade and must be harvested periodically, to keep from being too prolific. Its long roots may be grated into sauces and dressings or right onto a steak! It produces thick, green foliage and delicate, white flowers every year.
By tucking shade-loving perennials into the darker corners of your garden, you can liven up an otherwise dull space with lovely green leaves and a flower or two. And the best part is that they will be back next year!
