There’s a large spot at the front of my house underneath an awning that doesn’t get any direct sunlight (except for in the early morning hours). And I’d really like to add some foundational shrubs to grow against the side of the house. I’ve considered just filling the whole space with boxwood. The problem is that I’d like to have something colorful and pretty there too.
Does anyone know of any mounding / shrub-like periennials that:
- Thrive in the shade
- Can tolerate cold winters
- Bloom
( any and all advice would be appreciated! )
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Whenever I don’t know what I want to plant I consult my local university. Since I am in Minnesota it should be similar to your zone which has a great section about planting in the shade. Check your own or see what we have here.
Its mostly azaleas, dogwoods and hydrangea but there are other options. Take a look and pick something fun
I am a flower freak, so I would just plant a ton of hellebores. That is what I’ve done with a very shady spot in my backyard, and now I have hundreds of blooms I can cut from and bring inside from January to April. They are never going to be super tall, but they are massive now! I also have hydrangeas (including oak leaf, which give pretty autumn foliage), astilbe, heuchera, sanguisorba, ferns, and rhododendrons in shade, as others have mentioned.
What zone are you in?
Sorry! I forgot to mention. I’m in zone 3b
Azalea, hellebores, and sarcococca that have been suggested won’t survive in your zone. There are some rhododendron that can survive, and those might be your best bet.
I grow azalea and rhododendron in shady areas - they seem to do well. The ones in partial shade do better than the ones in full shade, though. I’m zone 7a.
Hydrangea and Rose of Sharon may also grow in partial shade.
Thank you so much! I’ll try and look for some azalea today :)
I see you’re in zone 3b - that might be too cold for azalea. Definitely check the specific species’ requirements before buying.
Good luck!