When it comes to adding new plants to your dream landscape, it’s important to choose ones that will thrive in the specific conditions where you plan to plant them. For instance, purchasing an exotic flower for a dry, shaded area may lead to disappointment when it withers away after just a few weeks.
To help make your selection process easier, we’ve put together a list of the top 10 plants that do well in dry shade. Read on for more details and discover some shade-loving plants that you may not have considered before.
First up on our list is the Lenten Rose.
The Lenten Rose plant may sound like a type of rose, but it is actually a hybrid evergreen perennial plant scientifically known as Helleborus orientalis. This plant is closely related to buttercups and produces vibrant yellow, pink, purple, green, or blue flowers during the spring months. With a cluster growth pattern that can reach 18 inches in width and height, the Lenten Rose makes for an excellent ground coverage option that requires minimal maintenance. However, it is worth noting that the plant is toxic to both people and animals, so it may not be suitable for pet owners. In a similar vein, another plant to consider for your garden is Lungwort.
The Pulmonaria spp is a lovely flowering plant that comes in bold pink, blue, or white colors – perfect for adding a pop of color to your outdoor space. Despite its unattractive name, the lungwort blooms early in the spring, providing a beautiful sight before most other plants begin to grow.
This plant does not require frequent watering and thrives in well-drained soil. However, it would be best if you avoided planting it around tree bases since it may have to compete for water. The lungwort grows well in shaded areas, making it an excellent choice for those looking to add some greenery to darker spots in their yard.
It’s worth noting that the plant can grow up to a foot tall, so planting it as ground cover is more practical than using it as a stand-alone feature. Not only does it add beauty to your landscape, but it also helps keep weeds at bay, reducing the amount of yard work you need to do.
Another great option for adding some greenery to your yard is the Hosta plant.
Although it may not produce flowers, the hosta plant can add a much-needed pop of green to an otherwise dull outdoor space and even serve as a natural border. With minimal maintenance required, this type of plant is perfect for dry, shady areas – simply plant and let it grow. Additionally, dividing the hosta plant is a breeze if you’re looking to expand your collection. With various sizes, shapes, and colors available, you can mix and match different types of hosta for a unique and dynamic look. Another great option to consider is the coral bells plant.
The Foamflower plant shares similar traits with the Coral Bells as it can withstand dry and shady conditions. What sets the Foamflower apart is its clustered white blossoms that resemble foam, hence its name. Scientifically known as Tiarella cordifolia, this plant is typically found in woodland and forest areas, making it ideal for planting under trees in your yard. While its flowers transform to autumnal shades in the fall, the Foamflower starts blooming in spring. Another plant worth mentioning is the Siberian Bugloss.
Perhaps you’re not familiar with the Siberian Bugloss or its scientific name, Brunnera macrophylla, but you may recognize it as the Great Forget-Me-Not due to its forget-me-not-shaped flowers. This perennial plant maintains its attractiveness long after its blooming season has passed. It’s an excellent option for ground coverage as the Siberian Bugloss grows in clusters. Although it may attract snails or slugs during its lifespan, it’s not susceptible to any pests or diseases. Another plant worth mentioning is the Bigfoot Geranium.
Many believe that geraniums thrive in hot, sunny environments; however, the Bigfoot Geranium thrives in dry, shady areas. As its name suggests, this particular variation of geranium can grow up to 12 inches tall and double that in width. Interestingly enough, this plant requires little to no pruning, except if you want to reduce its size. Thus, it is a great option for someone seeking an easy-to-maintain, low-maintenance dry shade plant. Another excellent choice for such an environment is the Oregon Grape.
The Oregon Grape, also called Mahonia aquifolium ‘Apollo,’ is a popular plant among bees and other pollinators due to its vibrant yellow flowers. These beautiful blossoms start appearing in the early months of spring and group together before maturing into fruit during the summer season. This low-maintenance plant typically only needs pruning every two years to ensure it stays healthy and retains its shape. It pairs well with other plants and can easily thrive without much attention. Another great option to consider is the David Viburnum.
If you’re seeking a plant that’s long-lasting and easy to care for, a fern is an ideal option. The Fern Brilliance Autumn variety of hardy ferns is particularly low-maintenance and boasts beautifully hued leaves that span from warm burnt orange to vivid red. This plant blends in seamlessly with any outdoor setting and complements the surrounding foliage perfectly, especially when intermingled with Hosta and other greenery.
