Full shade plants are the ones you want if you are trying to create a greener garden. Many people landscaping with flowers choose full shade plants because they require less maintenance than their Sunni counterparts. Full shade plants are also known for their fragrance. When choosing full shade plants you should choose ones that prefer shady areas.
Shade tolerant plants require different climates and conditions than full shade plants require. Soil conditions also dictate which plants will flourish. If you can carefully mold a small fistful of well drained soil into a big ball that holds its shape, it is very moist, this is perfect for full shade plants. However, if it breaks into fine powdery clumps, usually tenacious roots and trees will need to be found shade tolerant plants, those that can handle the dryness under heavy trees.
There are many full shade plants native to North America. Most are sold as cut flowers or in container form. They can be used in any type of woodland garden; from borders to along the walkways. The following is a list of five types of woodland garden plants.
Shrub This shrub is native to Europe and Asia, however it is now naturalized in the southern part of the United States. It has an upright growth habit with small branches and a cluster of leaves at the front. When choosing full shade plants, try to get one with a straight, flat trunk and one with large leaves. The large leaves give it the ability to diffuse large amounts of direct sunlight without causing overheating.
Hellebore Blooming bulbs are full shade plants and can be used in borders or along pathways. In the southern United States they are most often used as ground covers. Some of the best choices for this purpose are California hellebores and Arizona blue blossoms. They can be grown in full sun, part shade or partial shade. Hellebores bloom during late spring through early summer.
Varigated Weeping Plants A variety of variegated weedy ground covers are available. Some of the best choices are Carolina Bluebells, creeping pink weeds and curly dock. These come in a wide variety of colors such as purple, mauve, blue, fuchsia and mocha. Some of these plants provide colorful foliage throughout the year and are excellent as ground covers. Other plants are more annual and bloom only during the fall and winter months.
Ferns Not all flowering ferns are shade loving. There are varieties that do quite well in full sun. However, if you cannot tolerate the brittleness and scaling on the leaves, ferns will not thrive in your garden. Ferns will do well in partial shade and should be planted in pots.
Full Shade Gardening Many types of flowers and plants are suitable for full shade gardening. Most people consider tulips to be in full sun, however some, like the zinnias, do equally well in shaded areas. You will find varieties of lupine, calla lilies, delphiniums, irises, phlox, sago palms and zinnias that will grow in full sun. If possible, grow your flowers where it will receive direct light from south-facing windows or a southern light. Sunflowers, crabgrass, and other perennials are ideal in full shade gardens. If you prefer shade to sun, you may want to grow sunflowers.
Hosta Plants Some flowers that do well in full shade areas are the hostas, also known as carpet plants. This is because they are quite hardy and grow in many kinds of soil and climates. However, if you have trouble finding hostas that will thrive in shady conditions, plant other flowers in their place.
Shrubbery Hostas and shrubs that grow well in shade-loving flower gardens are the shrubs and vines. Evergreens and deciduous trees like the California Redwood, maple, hickory, and oak are popular choices. However, certain bushes such as the Boston berry bush, the hibiscus, and the hollies will do well even in full sunlight. There are other flowers that will do well too, including Columbine, blueberry, holly, lavender, marigold, purple, raspberry, and strawberry.
Shade tolerant flowering plants make a great addition to a shaded garden. Shallow rooted trees and shrubs add a touch of color to your garden as well as being hardy plants. In addition, they are easier to care for, are less likely to attract insects, and offer a more natural look to your landscape.