51 Perennials For Shade Gardens

Are you looking for the best shade perennials for your garden? There are numerous perennials that thrive in shady areas. From low-lying plants to shade-loving perennial flowers, your options are practically endless. Choosing the right combination of plants can help ensure your garden is beautiful and inviting all season long.

When choosing the right combination of shade perennials, consider the amount of shade your garden actually receives. Garden shade is typically classified as either full shade or partial shade. Full shade areas receive little to no direct sunlight, less than four hours per day. Partial shade areas get some direct sunlight but are shaded for part of the day, receiving four to six hours per day or dappled sunlight all day.

The type of shade in your garden will help you determine which plants will thrive. To help you along the way, we’ve handpicked a comprehensive list of our favorite shade perennials that will add beauty and interest to your garden, no matter the type of shade you have. Let’s jump in!

Amsonia

	botanical name Amsonia tabernaemontana (North America)
	plant type Herbaceous perennial
	sun requirements Full sun to partial shade
	height 24-36″
	hardiness zones 3-11

Also referred to as bluestar, Amsonia is a perennial herbaceous plant native to North America. These plants grow to be two to three feet tall and prefer full sun but will tolerate partially shaded areas. They are hardy in USDA zones 3 through 11, making them a good choice for gardeners across the country.

The leaves of Amsonia are a deep green, with blue flowers appearing in spring and summer. The plant is semi-evergreen, and the clustered flowers are borne on tall stems.

Annual Vinca

	botanical name Catharanthus roseus (Madagascar)
	plant type Perennial
	sun requirements Full sun to partial shade
	height 6-18″
	hardiness zones 9-11

Despite having “annual” in the name, annual vinca is actually a perennial. It is, however, grown as an annual in colder climates. Also known as the Madagascar periwinkle, annual vinca is a shade perennial native to Madagascar. This plant grows to be six to 18 inches tall and prefers full sun to partially shaded areas. Annual vinca is hardy in zones 9 through 11.

It has dark green leaves and produces white, pink, or mauve flowers that bloom in summer and fall. It requires moderate watering, and too much shade will result in leggy growth.

Annual vinca is a great addition to any garden, and its beautiful flowers are sure to add interest and color to any shady area. It’s also a surprisingly drought-tolerant shade perennial, making it a little more low-maintenance than other perennials.

Astilbes

	botanical name Astilbe spp. (Asia, North America)
	plant type Perennial
	sun requirements Full sun to partial shade
	height 6-12″
	hardiness zones 3-8

Valued for their long-lasting perennial flowers and lush foliage, astilbes are a shade perennial native to Asia and North America. These plants grow up to 12 inches tall and prefer partially shaded areas or full sun.

Astilbes produce plumes of showy flowers in shades of pink, red, purple, or white. The flowers are borne on long stems and appear in late spring to early summer. The foliage is usually green, but some varieties have bronze or burgundy leaves.

After the flowers have faded, astilbe foliage remains attractive throughout summer. These plants require little maintenance and are resistant to deer and rabbits. You can divide astilbes in spring or fall.

Balloon Flower

	botanical name Platycodon grandiflorus (Far East, Russia)
	plant type Herbaceous perennial
	sun requirements Full sun to partial shade
	height 12-36″
	hardiness zones 3-8

A member of the bellflower family, balloon flowers are perennial, herbaceous plants native to the Far East and Russia. These plants grow to be two to three feet tall and prefer full sun but will tolerate some shade. Hardy in USDA zones 3 through 8, they make a great addition to gardens across the country.

The leaves of balloon flowers are a deep green, and the blooms come in a variety of colors including pink, purple, white, and blue. They get their name from the fact that the unopened buds resemble balloons. The flowers appear in summer and fall.

Barrenwort

	botanical name Epimedium leptorrhizum (China)
	plant type Perennial
	sun requirements Full to partial shade
	height 12-36″
	hardiness zones 4-8

Barrenwort is a shade perennial that is native to China. These plants grow to be 12 to 36 inches tall and prefer partially shaded areas to full shade. The plants do well in zones 4 through 8.

The leaves of barrenwort are heart-shaped and come in various colors, including green, bronze, and red. The flowers are small and borne on long stalks. They come in shades of yellow, pink, and purple.

Bear’s Breeches

	botanical name Acanthus mollis (Southern Europe, Mediterranean)
	plant type Herbaceous perennial
	sun requirements Full sun to partial shade
	height 36-48″
	hardiness zones 6-10

Bear’s breeches are interesting plants with bracts that attract more attention than the flowers themselves. These plants are native to the Mediterranean and grow to be three to four feet tall. They prefer full sun but will tolerate some shade.

This tall flowering perennial is hardy in USDA zones 6 through 10 and has been known to thrive in zone 5 gardens with extra mulch for insulation. Flowers borne on tall stalks appear in late spring and early summer. The blooms are white or pale pink and not very showy. The leaves are dark green, spiny, and borne on long stems. These plants can be invasive in some gardens.

Bergenia

	botanical name Bergenia cordifolia (Europe, Asia)
	plant type Herbaceous perennial
	sun requirements Full to partial shade
	height 12-24″
	hardiness zones 4-8

Bergenias are shade-loving garden perennials native to Europe and Asia. These plants grow to be 12 to 24 inches tall and prefer full shade to partial. They thrive in almost any garden and are perfect for those difficult-to-fill shady areas.

The big leaves of bergenia are deep green, and the flowers bloom in pink, red, or white shades. They appear in early spring and last until summer.

Bethlehem Lungwort

	botanical name Pulmonaria saccharata (Europe)
	plant type Perennial
	sun requirements Full to partial shade
	height 12-18″
	hardiness zones 4-8

Bethlehem lungwort is a perennial herb native to Europe. These plants grow to be 12 to 18 inches tall and prefer partial shade to full shade. They are hardy in USDA zones 4 through 8 and make a great addition to any shady garden.

The leaves of Bethlehem lungwort are dark green with silver spots on the surface. Pink flowers bloom in spring, and the plant is semi-evergreen.

Bletilla

	botanical name Bletilla striata (China)
	plant type Perennial
	sun requirements Full to partial shade
	height 8-12″
	hardiness zones 5-9

Also known as Chinese ground orchids, Bletilla are shade perennials native to China. These plants grow to be eight to 12 inches tall and prefer partial shade to full shade. Bletilla are hardy in zones 5 through 9.

They have dark green leaves and produce purple, white, or pink flowers that bloom in late spring or early summer. They are a beautiful addition to any garden, and their flowers are sure to attract bees and butterflies.

Bluebells

	botanical name Campanula rotundifolia (Europe, North America, Asia)
	plant type Perennial
	sun requirements Full sun to partial shade
	height 12″
	hardiness zones 3-6

Bluebells are perennial, herbaceous plants native to Europe, North America, and Asia. These plants grow to be 12 inches and prefer full sun but will tolerate partial shade. Hardy in USDA zones 3 through 6, they make a great addition to any garden.

The flowers bloom in shades of blue and purple. They appear in summer and fall.

Bunchberries

	botanical name Cornus canadensis (North America)
	plant type Perennial
	sun requirements Full to partial shade
	height 8″
	hardiness zones 2

A member of the dogwood family, bunchberries are a shrubby shade perennial native to North America. These plants grow to be eight inches tall and prefer partial shade or full sun. Bunchberries are hardy in zones 2 through 8.

They produce white flowers with several florets borne in a cluster at the end of a long stem. The flowers are followed by red berries that ripen in late summer. The foliage of bunchberries is green and leathery.

Calendulas, also known as pot marigolds, are annual plants native to the Mediterranean. However, in zones 9 to 11, you can grow them as perennials.

Calendula grows to be 24 inches tall and prefers full sun to partial shade. The flowers are brightly colored and borne in clusters on long stems.

Calendula flowers can be used in salads or as a garnish. The petals can also be dried and used to make tea. The leaves are edible but have a bitter taste. Calendula thrives in less-than-ideal soil conditions and makes a great companion plant in the vegetable garden.

Celandine Poppy

	botanical name Stylophorum diphyllum (Eastern North America)
	plant type Herbaceous perennial
	sun requirements Full sun to partial shade
	height 18-24″
	hardiness zones 4-9

A beautiful addition to any garden, the celandine poppy is a native North American wildflower that grows to be 18 to 24 inches tall. These plants prefer full sun but will tolerate partial shade, and they are hardy in USDA zones 4 through 9.

The leaves of the celandine poppy are dark green, with yellow flowers appearing in spring and summer. The blooms are borne on tall stems and attract bees and butterflies. Watch out in areas where this plant is highly invasive.

Coleus

	botanical name Plectranthus scutellarioides (Southeast Asia)
	plant type Herbaceous perennial
	sun requirements Full to partial shade
	height 6-36″
	hardiness zones 10-11

Coleus is a perennial, herbaceous plant that originates from Southeast Asia. Coleus plants grow to be anywhere from six to 36 inches tall depending on the variety and prefer shady conditions with some afternoon sun. They are not frost tolerant and will not survive in USDA zones below 10.

The leaves of coleus are a mix of green and burgundy, and the flowers bloom in shades of blue and purple. They appear in summer and fall. The plants are easy to grow and make a great addition to any garden. They are also popular as houseplants.

Columbines

	botanical name Aquilegia spp. (Europe, Asia, North America)
	plant type Perennial
	sun requirements Full sun to partial shade
	height 12-36″
	hardiness zones 3-8

Columbines are a shade perennial native to Europe, Asia, and North America. These plants grow to be 12 to 36 inches tall and prefer partial shade or full sun. Columbines are hardy in zones 3 through 8.

They produce showy flowers borne on long stems in late spring to early summer. The blooms come in various colors including white, pink, red, and purple. The plant and flowers are toxic to humans if ingested.

Common Bleeding Heart

	botanical name Lamprocapnos spectabilis (Asia)
	plant type Herbaceous perennial
	sun requirements Full to partial shade
	height 6-36″
	hardiness zones 2-9

Also known as the fern-leaf bleeding heart, the common bleeding heart is a shade perennial native to Asia. These plants grow up to three feet tall and prefer partial shade to full shade. Common bleeding hearts are hardy in zones 2 through 9, making them a great plant for gardeners in colder climates.

They have fern-like leaves and produce pink, white, or red flowers that bloom in spring and summer. The flowers are borne on long, arching stems and are a favorite of bees and butterflies. They are, however, toxic to humans and pets, especially dogs, if consumed.

Corydalis

	botanical name Corydalis canadensis (Northern Hemisphere, North Africa, China)
	plant type Perennial
	sun requirements Full shade to partial sun
	height 12-18″
	hardiness zones 5-7

Corydalis is a shade perennial native to the northern hemisphere, North Africa, and China. These plants grow to be 12 to 18 inches tall and prefer shade to partial sun. Doing well in USDA zones 5 through 7, this hardy plant will decorate gardens in moderate climates.

The plant blooms in spring, producing brightly colored flowers that should be deadheaded as soon as they wither to keep the foliage full and healthy.

Creeping Jenny

	botanical name Lysimachia nummularia (Europe, Western Asia)
	plant type Perennial
	sun requirements Full sun to partial shade
	height 4-8″
	hardiness zones 4-9

Creeping Jenny is a fast-growing groundcover and partial shade perennial that originates from Europe and Western Asia. This plant grows to be four to eight inches tall and can tolerate full sun to partial shade. Creeping Jenny is hardy in zones 4 through 9, making it a versatile plant for gardens across the country.

It has small, round leaves that are bright green in color and produces yellow flowers that bloom in summer and early fall. Creeping Jenny is a great choice for gardeners looking to add color and interest to their shady gardens, as long as they live outside its invasive range.

Creeping Veronica

	botanical name Veronica filiformis (Europe, Asia)
	plant type Perennial groundcover
	sun requirements Full sun to partial shade
	height 2-5″
	hardiness zones 3-9

A hardy groundcover, creeping veronica, also known as bird’s-eye speedwell, is native to Europe and Asia. These plants grow to be two to five inches tall and prefer full sun to partial shade. They are hardy in USDA zones 3 through 9 and will thrive in most gardens. In fact, in many areas this plant is highly invasive and should not be planted.

The leaves of creeping veronica are green and borne on long, thin stems. The flowers are blue or purple and appear in clusters. These plants bloom in spring and summer.

Daylily

	botanical name Hemerocallis spp. (Asia, Central Europe)
	plant type Herbaceous perennial
	sun requirements Full sun to partial shade
	height 24-36″
	hardiness zones 3-10

Daylilies are perennial, herbaceous plants native to Asia and Central Europe. These plants grow to be two to three feet tall and prefer full sun but will tolerate partial shade. They are popular due to their hardy nature and thrive in almost any climate.

The flowers of daylilies come in a wide range of colors and bloom in summer. The plant is semi-evergreen, and the flowers are borne on tall stems. Although edible to humans, daylilies are highly toxic to cats. Some daylilies are invasive in certain areas, so choose a species adapted to your region rather than an invasive one.

Epimedium

	botanical name Epimedium spp. (Asia, Mediterranean)
	plant type Perennial groundcover
	sun requirements Full to partial shade
	height 6-12″
	hardiness zones 5-8

Epimediums are perennial, herbaceous plants native to Asia and the Mediterranean. These plants grow to be six to 12 inches tall and prefer partial shade to full shade. They are hardy in USDA zones 5 through 8, making them a great groundcover for shady areas.

The leaves of epimediums are heart-shaped, and the flowers are borne on tall stalks. The blooms come in various colors including pink, purple, and white, appearing in spring.

Foamflower

	botanical name Tiarella cordifolia (North America)
	plant type Perennial
	sun requirements Full to partial shade
	height 12-36″
	hardiness zones 3-8

Deriving its name from the foam-like substance that coats the leaves when they are young, foamflower is a shade perennial native to North America. These plants can grow to be three feet tall and prefer partial shade to full shade. Foamflower is hardy in zones 3 through 8.

It blooms in late spring to early summer, with white or pink flowers borne on long, erect stems. The flowers are followed by dark green, heart-shaped leaves. Foamflower is a beautiful addition to any shady garden. The plant needs little maintenance, but you should remove spent flowers to prevent self-seeding.

Forget-Me-Not

	botanical name Myosotis sylvatica (Europe)
	plant type Perennial, Biennial
	sun requirements Full sun to partial shade
	height 12-24″
	hardiness zones 3-8

Forget-me-nots are small, blue flowering perennials native to Europe. These plants grow to be 12 to 24 inches tall and prefer full sun to partial shade. They are not frost-tolerant and will not survive in USDA zones below 3.

The leaves of forget-me-nots are a deep green, and the flowers bloom in shades of blue. They appear in early spring and last until summer. The plants are easy to grow and make a great addition to any garden. They are also popular as house and patio plants.

Foxglove

	botanical name Digitalis purpurea (Europe, Northwest Africa)
	plant type Perennial, Biennial in some areas
	sun requirements Full sun to partial shade
	height 36-48″
	hardiness zones 4-10

Foxgloves are biennial, herbaceous plants native to Europe and Northwest Africa. These plants grow to be three to four feet tall and prefer full sun but will tolerate partial shade. Foxgloves thrive in USDA zones 4 through 10.

The leaves of foxgloves are a deep green, and the flowers are borne on tall stalks. The blooms come in various colors including pink, purple, and white, appearing in spring and summer. Although the plant is beautiful, it is also highly poisonous, making it popular for gardeners looking for a perennial that will resist deer and other wildlife.

Fuschia

	botanical name Fuchsia spp. (Central and South America)
	plant type Perennial shrub
	sun requirements Partial sun to full shade
	height 12-36″
	hardiness zones 10-11

Fuchsias are perennial, evergreen shrubs native to Central and South America. These plants grow to be 12 to 36 inches tall and prefer sun to partial shade. They are not frost tolerant and will not survive in USDA zones below 10.

The leaves of fuchsias are a deep green, and the flowers bloom in a variety of colors including pink, purple, white, and red. They appear in spring and summer. The flowers attract nectar-loving birds and butterflies to the garden.

Goat’s Beard

	botanical name Aruncus dioicus (North America, Europe, Asia)
	plant type Herbaceous perennial
	sun requirements Full sun to partial shade
	height 48-60″
	hardiness zones 4-7

Deriving its name from the long, white hairs that grow on its seed heads, goat’s beard is a perennial, herbaceous plant native to North America, Asia, and Europe. These plants grow to be four to five feet tall and prefer full sun but will tolerate partial shade. Hardy in USDA zones 4 through 7, they make a great addition to any garden.

The leaves of goat’s beard are a deep green, and the cream-colored flowers bloom in spring and summer. The plant is toxic to humans and animals if ingested, so care should be taken when handling it.

Green and Gold

	botanical name Chrysogonum virginianum (Eastern North America)
	plant type Herbaceous Perennial
	sun requirements Full sun to partial shade
	height 6-12″
	hardiness zones 5-9

Green and gold is a native North American wildflower perfect for adding color to shady areas of the garden. These plants grow to be six to 12 inches tall and prefer full sun but will tolerate partial shade. They are hardy in USDA zones 5 through 9, making them a good choice for gardeners across the country.

The leaves are green, with bright yellow, daisy-like flowers appearing in spring and summer. These plants make a great addition to any garden and are easy to care for.

Hakonechloa

	botanical name Hakonechloa macra (Japan)
	plant type Perennial ornamental grass
	sun requirements Full to partial shade
	height 12-24″
	hardiness zones 5-9

Also known as golden hakone grass, Hakonechloa is a shade perennial native to Japan. These plants grow to be about two feet tall and prefer partial shade to full shade. Hakonechloa is hardy in zones 5 through 9.

It has long, linear leaves that are a striking golden color. The leaves turn reddish-bronze in fall and remain evergreen in warmer climates. Hakonechloa flowers are insignificant; the main attraction of this plant is its beautiful foliage.

This grass sheds its leaves in winter, regaining full foliage later in spring. It’s a good plant to use as ground cover or in mass plantings. Hakonechloa is also deer and rabbit resistant, making it a good choice for gardens frequented by these animals.

Hardy Begonia

	botanical name Begonia grandis (China)
	plant type Perennial
	sun requirements Full to partial shade
	height 18-24″
	hardiness zones 6-9

Hardy begonia is a shade perennial native to China. These plants grow to be 18 to 24 inches tall and prefer partial shade to full shade. With a USDA zone range of 6 through 9, hardy begonias are good for gardeners in most climates.

Hardy begonias produce beautiful flowers that bloom from summer to fall. The flowers are white, pink, or red and are borne on long stalks. The leaves are large and have a wavy margin. These plants do not tolerate frost and should be protected from cold weather.

Heucheras

	botanical name Heuchera spp. (North America)
	plant type Perennial evergreen
	sun requirements Full to partial shade
	height 8-18″
	hardiness zones 4-9

Heucheras, also known as coral bells, are a shade perennial native to North America. These plants grow to be eight to 18 inches tall and prefer partial shade or full sun. Heucheras are hardy in zones 4 through 9 and are somewhat frost tolerant depending on your hardiness zone.

They produce small, bell-shaped flowers borne on long stems in late spring to early summer. The blooms come in various colors including white, pink, red, and purple. The foliage is usually green, but some varieties have bronze or burgundy leaves. There are many different varieties to choose from that grow across a wide range of hardiness zones.

Hosta

	botanical name Hosta spp. (Eastern Asia)
	plant type Herbaceous perennial
	sun requirements Full to partial shade
	height 6-48″
	hardiness zones 3-9

Hosta is a genus of shade perennials that includes over 50 different species. These plants are native to Eastern Asia and grow anywhere from six inches to four feet tall depending on the species. Hostas prefer partial shade to full shade and are hardy in zones 3 through 9.

Hostas are known for their large, beautiful leaves that come in various colors including green, blue, yellow, and white. They produce small flowers that bloom in summer, often hidden by the foliage.

Hostas are a known favorite for deer and slugs, so take special care to protect young plants from these pests.

Impatiens

	botanical name Impatiens spp. (Africa, New Guinea, Eurasia)
	plant type Tender perennial
	sun requirements Full shade
	height 6-36″
	hardiness zones 10-11

Impatiens are annual herbaceous plants native to Africa, New Guinea, and Eurasia. These plants grow to be six to 36 inches tall and prefer shady conditions. They are not frost tolerant and will not survive in USDA zones below 10.

The leaves of impatiens are deep green, and the flowers bloom in a variety of colors including pink, purple, white, and red. They appear in spring and summer. The plants are easy to grow and make a great addition to any garden. They are also popular as houseplants.

Indian Pink

	botanical name Spigelia marilandica (Eastern United States)
	plant type Perennial
	sun requirements Full sun to partial shade
	height 12-24″
	hardiness zones 5-9

Indian pinks are a shade perennial native to the eastern United States. These plants grow to be up to two feet tall and prefer full sun to partial shade. Indian pinks are hardy in zones 5 through 9.

They produce beautiful tubular flowers in pink, red, and purple shades and have dense foliage. The flowers are pollinated by hummingbirds. The leaves are lance-shaped with a smooth margin.

Jacob’s Ladder

	botanical name Polemonium caeruleum (Europe, Northern Asia)
	plant type Perennial
	sun requirements Full to partial shade
	height 12-24″
	hardiness zones 4-9

Commonly known as Greek valerian, this shade perennial is native to Europe and Northern Asia. Jacob’s ladder grows to be up to two feet tall and prefers partial shade or full sun. This popular shade perennial is hardy in zones 4 through 9.

Jacob’s ladder produces small blue, white, purple, or yellow flowers borne on long stems in late spring to early summer. The flowers are followed by dark green, heart-shaped leaves.

Japanese Anemones

	botanical name Anemone x hybrida (Japan)
	plant type Perennial
	sun requirements Partial shade
	height 36-60″
	hardiness zones 4-8

Japanese anemones are a shade perennial native to Japan. These plants grow to be three to five feet tall and prefer partial shade or full sun. They are hardy in zones 4 through 8.

Japanese anemones produce large, white flowers borne on long stems in late summer to early fall. The blooms are followed by dark green, heart-shaped leaves. Japanese anemones require little maintenance and are resistant to deer and rabbits.

Lenten Roses

	botanical name Helleborus x hybridus (Europe)
	plant type Perennial evergreen
	sun requirements Partial shade
	height 12-18″
	hardiness zones 4-9

Beautiful and long-blooming, Lenten roses are a shade perennial native to Europe. They are a hellebore hybrid and are quite popular in shade gardens. These plants grow to be 12 to 18 inches tall and prefer partial shade. Lenten roses are hardy in zones 4 through 9.

Despite the name, Lenten roses are not related to true roses. The flowers are borne on long stalks in late winter to early spring and come in a variety of colors including white, pink, red, and purple. The foliage is dark green and leathery.

Leopard Plant

	botanical name Ligularia dentata (China, Japan)
	plant type Perennial
	sun requirements Full to partial shade
	height 36-48″
	hardiness zones 3-8

Leopard plant is a shade perennial native to China and Japan. These plants grow to be about two feet tall and prefer partial shade to full shade. Leopard plant is hardy in zones 3 through 8.

Leopard plants have large, heart-shaped leaves covered in spots or blotches of yellow, brown, or black. The leaves are borne on long stems and can reach up to four feet in length. They produce yellow, daisy-like flowers from late summer to early fall.

Leopard plants require more than moderate watering and prefer moist, well-drained soil. They are also deer and rabbit resistant, making them a good choice for gardens frequented by these animals.

Lily of the Valley

	botanical name Convallaria majalis (Europe)
	plant type Herbaceous perennial
	sun requirements Full to partial shade
	height 6-12″
	hardiness zones 3-8

Despite the name, lily of the valley is not actually a member of the lily family. This shade perennial is native to Europe and grows six to 12 inches tall. Lily of the valley prefers partial shade to full shade and is hardy in zones 3 through 8.

It has long, narrow leaves and produces small, white flowers that bloom in spring. The flowers are often used in bouquets and arrangements, and the plant is known for its fragrant scent. Lily of the valley is a beautiful addition to any shady garden, but it is known for invading natural areas in most regions of North America, so be careful where you plant it.

The plant belongs to the asparagus family and produces poisonous berries, so take care when planting it around children or pets who can easily consume them. Reports of glycoside and saponin content in the plant make it poisonous to humans and animals if ingested.

Lobelias

	botanical name Lobelia erinus (South Africa)
	plant type Tender perennial
	sun requirements Full sun to partial shade
	height 6-9″
	hardiness zones 10-11

Native to South Africa, lobelias are tender perennials that grow six to nine inches tall. They prefer full sun to partial shade and cannot tolerate frost.

The leaves of lobelias are a deep green, and the flowers bloom in shades of blue, purple, or lilac. They appear in early spring and last until summer.

Mourning Widow Geranium

	botanical name Geranium phaeum (Europe, Asia)
	plant type Perennial
	sun requirements Full to partial shade
	height 24-30″
	hardiness zones 3-7

Mourning widow geranium is a shade perennial native to Eurasia. These plants grow to be 24 to 30 inches tall and prefer full sun to partial shade. With a wide range of climate tolerances in USDA zones 3 through 7, this plant is good for gardeners in most areas.

The leaves of mourning widow geranium are green, sometimes with a purple tinge. The flowers are blackish-purple and borne on long stalks. These plants bloom in spring and summer.

Oakleaf Hydrangea

	botanical name Hydrangea quercifolia (Southeastern United States)
	plant type Perennial
	sun requirements Full to partial shade
	height 40-80″
	hardiness zones 5

The oakleaf hydrangea is a beautiful shade perennial native to the southeastern United States. This plant grows three to six feet tall and thrives in full or partial shade. The oakleaf hydrangea is hardy in zones 5 and 6.

A large plant with leaves that can grow up to almost seven feet long, the oakleaf hydrangea is perfect for adding interest and texture to a shady garden. The leaves are dark green and turn red, purple, or bronze in fall. This plant produces large clusters of white flowers that bloom in late spring or early summer.

Peach-Leaved Bellflower

	botanical name Campanula persicifolia (Europe, Asia)
	plant type Herbaceous perennial
	sun requirements Full sun to partial shade
	height 24″
	hardiness zones 3-7

A member of the bellflower family, peach-leaved bellflowers are perennial, herbaceous plants native to Europe and Asia. These plants grow to be 24 inches tall and prefer full sun but will tolerate partial shade. Hardy in USDA zones 3 through 7, they make a great addition to any garden.

The flowers bloom in a variety of colors including blue, lilac, and white. They appear in summer and fall.

Peony

	botanical name Paeonia officinalis (Asia, Europe)
	plant type Herbaceous perennial
	sun requirements Full sun to partial shade
	height 36-48″
	hardiness zones 3-9

A favorite of gardeners for centuries, peonies are perennial plants native to Asia and Europe. These plants grow to be three to four feet tall and prefer full sun but will tolerate partial shade. Hardy in USDA zones 3 through 9, they make a great addition to any garden.

The leaves of peonies are a deep green, and the flowers bloom in various colors including pink, purple, white, and red. They are loved for their fragrance, and the blooms appear in spring and summer. The plant can be mildly toxic to humans, so take care when handling it.

Red-Leafed Mukdenia

	botanical name Mukdenia rossii ‘Karasumi’ (China)
	plant type Perennial
	sun requirements Partial shade
	height 8-12″
	hardiness zones 4-9

Red-leafed mukdenia is a perennial plant native to China. These plants grow to be eight to 12 inches tall and prefer partial shade. They thrive in USDA zones 4 through 9 and are great companion plants to astilbes and ferns.

The leaves of red-leafed mukdenia are a deep green with red-colored margins. The white flowers bloom in summer, and the plant is semi-evergreen.

Rhododendron

	botanical name Rhododendron spp. (North America)
	plant type Perennial shrub
	sun requirements Partial sun to full shade
	height 36″-8′
	hardiness zones 3-9

Meaning red tree, rhododendrons are a family of shrubs native to North America. These plants are evergreen, hardy, and thrive in almost all gardens. They can grow to be eight feet tall.

The blooms come in a wide array of colors including pink, purple, blue, white, and red. They appear in early spring and last until summer, and the showy flowers attract birds and butterflies to the garden. Rhododendrons are perfect for shady areas and make a beautiful addition to any landscape.

Sedum

	botanical name Sedum spp. (North America)
	plant type Perennial succulent
	sun requirements Full sun to partial shade
	height 6-24″
	hardiness zones 3-10

Sedum is a perennial, succulent plant native to North America. These plants grow to be six to 24 inches tall and prefer full sun but will tolerate partial shade. Hardy in USDA zones 3 through 10, they make a great groundcover or addition to rock gardens.

The leaves of Sedum are a deep green, and the flowers bloom in a variety of colors including pink, purple, and white. The flowers appear in spring and summer, and the plant is evergreen, requiring minimal care.

Siberian Bugloss

	botanical name Brunnera macrophylla (Asia, Europe)
	plant type Herbaceous perennial
	sun requirements Full sun to full shade
	height 12-18″
	hardiness zones 3-8

With an unforgettable bright blue bloom, Siberian bugloss is a shade perennial sure to add interest to any garden. These plants are native to Asia and Europe and grow 12 to 18 inches tall. They prefer full sun but will tolerate partial shade and full shade. They are hardy in USDA zones 3 through 8, thriving in gardens across the country.

The plant blooms in spring, and the beautiful blue flowers are a favorite of bees and butterflies.

Spotted Dead-Nettles

	botanical name Lamium maculatum (Europe, Asia, North Africa)
	plant type Perennial
	sun requirements Full to partial shade
	height 3-12″
	hardiness zones 4-8

An intriguing groundcover for shady areas, spotted dead-nettles are a shade perennial native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa. These plants grow to be three to 12 inches tall and prefer partial shade to full shade. Spotted dead-nettles are hardy in zones 4 through 8.

They have small, ovate leaves mottled with silver and green. The plants produce small pink, mauve, or white flowers from late spring to early summer, borne in clusters on long stems.

Spotted dead-nettles spread quickly and can become invasive if not kept in check. They are best suited to small areas where they can be contained and make an excellent groundcover for shady gardens. Deadheading the flowers will prolong blooming, and you can divide the plants in spring or fall.

Toad Lily

	botanical name Tricyrtis hirta (Asia)
	plant type Perennial
	sun requirements Partial sun to full shade
	height 24-36″
	hardiness zones 4-8

Toad lilies are the perfect choice for gardeners looking to add an exotic touch to their shade garden. Native to Asia, these plants grow to be two to three feet tall and prefer partial sun to full shade. They are hardy in USDA zones 4 through 8.

Blooming in summer and fall, toad lilies produce flowers borne on long stalks. The blooms come in a variety of colors including white, yellow, pink, and purple. They are often marked with spots or streaks of darker color.

Vinca Minor

	botanical name Vinca minor (Europe)
	plant type Perennial vine
	sun requirements Full sun to partial shade
	height 3-6″ tall, with trailing vines up to 18″ long
	hardiness zones 4-9

Vinca minor is an evergreen, perennial vine native to Europe. This plant grows to be three to six inches tall, with trailing vines up to 18 inches long. It prefers full sun to partial shade and is not frost-tolerant.

The leaves of Vinca minor are deep green, and the flowers bloom in shades of blue. They appear in early spring and last until summer. This plant is easy to grow and makes a great addition to any garden. It is also popular as a ground cover or potted patio plant. Keep it out of the ground in areas where it tends to invade natural spaces.