26 Shade Perennials For Zone 8 Gardens

Do you have a shady area of your garden, or perhaps you are creating an entire shade garden, and live in USDA Hardiness zone 8? Adding plants to your yard is one of the best ways to enhance your home and even show off your personality. If you live in zone 8, you need to ensure that you’re planting plants that are able to survive in this specific climate and temperature range, especially if you are planting in the shade.

Whether you want to add shrubs, some flowers, or other shade-friendly plants, perennials are a great choice! Luckily, despite the zone 8 heat, there are dozens of shade-friendly perennials that can grow well with minimal maintenance in hardiness zone 8 for you to choose from.

Knowing what options you have for perennials that love the shade is essential. Below you’ll find some of our favorite shade perennials for zone 8. Let’s jump in!

Acanthus

	botanical name Acanthus montanus
	sun requirements Full sun to partial to shade
	height 4-6 feet
	hardiness zones 7-10

If you’re looking for an excellent foliage plant to add to your yard, acanthus is a great option. While it doesn’t offer bright bursts of color, its bold, vibrant greenery is certainly something to admire. These shade perennials for zone 8 feature large, deeply lobed leaves and tall flower spikes with white and pinkish blooms, often accompanied by small spines.

When deciding where to plant acanthus, consider placing it near shorter plants to serve as a striking backdrop or structural frame in your garden. If you live in an area prone to wildlife, you’ll be pleased to know that acanthus is relatively resistant to browsing animals. Once it flowers, it can also attract butterflies and other nectar feeders to your garden.

Ajuga

	botanical name Ajuga reptans
	sun requirements Full sun to full shade
	height 4-12″
	hardiness zones 3-10

Ajuga is a general term for a group of plants that thrive in zone 8 and beyond. It refers to a genus of about 300 species, many of which produce blue or purple flowers.

Hardy in zones 3 through 10, ajuga’s flowering performance largely depends on the amount of sun it receives. These plants don’t grow very tall, typically reaching up to about a foot in height, but they make excellent low-growing groundcovers with attractive foliage and seasonal blooms.

Beautyberry

	botanical name Callicarpa spp.
	sun requirements Full sun to partial shade
	height 3-7′
	hardiness zones 5-11

Beautyberry is a shrub that thrives in full sun to partial shade, making it a great choice if your yard gets limited sunlight. Its vibrant green foliage is attractive on its own, but when fully pollinated, the shrub produces clusters of striking berries.

These berries serve as an important food source for many bird species, making beautyberry an excellent addition if you’re hoping to attract more birds to your yard. The plant prefers moist, clay-like soil and, with proper care, will thrive for many years. While there are several species of beautyberry, the one native to North America is an especially well-suited shade perennial for zone 8.

Bleeding Hearts

	botanical name Lamprocapnos spectabilis
	sun requirements Partial to full shade
	height 36″
	hardiness zones 3-9

Bleeding hearts are stunning shrubs with pink or fuchsia blooms that can brighten up any front or backyard. As the plant matures, you may notice its stems arching gracefully. This is completely normal. Native to Asia, bleeding hearts naturally grow in shaded, rocky environments, which contributes to their signature curved stems.

These plants are low-maintenance and make a lovely addition to any garden. While they thrive in zone 8, they can begin to wilt in extreme heat. To help them flourish, plant them in a shady spot where their delicate pink and white flowers can bloom without stress.

Camellia

	botanical name Camellia sasanqua
	sun requirements Full sun to partial shade
	height 6-14′
	hardiness zones 7-9

Camellias are an excellent shade perennial for zone 8. Known for their vibrant red and pink blooms, they add classic beauty to any garden when in full flower, exactly what many gardeners are looking for when planting these shrubs. They thrive in warmer climates, which makes zone 8 ideal, but they do benefit from partial shade to protect them from intense sun.

While most camellia varieties produce the iconic pink and red blossoms, some offer delicate white flowers as well. Camellias can be a bit particular about their growing conditions, but with proper planting and care, their maintenance needs are relatively low.

Cephalotaxus

	botanical name Cephalotaxus harringtonia
	sun requirements Full sun to full shade
	height 5-10′
	hardiness zones 6-9

Cephalotaxus is a great shrub to incorporate into your garden, as it pairs well with a variety of flowers and other shade perennials in zone 8. While these plants prefer sun, the warm temperatures in zone 8 make partial shade ideal for their slow, steady growth. The shrub may produce small flowers briefly, though they typically fade to brown over time.

Cephalotaxus features needle-like, dark green foliage that adds texture and depth to the landscape. When planting, be sure to use well-drained, moist soil. Too much moisture can lead to root rot, which is best avoided. With the right conditions, this low-maintenance shrub will thrive for years to come.

Chinese Mahonia

	botanical name Berberis fortunei
	sun requirements Partial to full shade
	height 4-6′
	hardiness zones 7-10

Chinese mahonia is a compact, bushy, and dense shrub that can grow several feet tall. It’s perfect for adding lush greenery to your yard and also works well as a natural privacy screen. The shrub’s foliage resembles ferns, with narrow green leaflets, and it may produce striking yellow flower spikes when in full bloom.

This plant thrives in soil that includes a mix of sand and clay. As long as it’s planted in a shaded area within zone 8 and the soil meets these requirements, Chinese mahonia can be a long-lasting addition to your landscape. The soil should be kept moderately dry to moist for optimal growth.

Daphne

	botanical name Daphne pontica
	sun requirements Partial to full shade
	height 3′
	hardiness zones 6-9

Daphne is a shrub that stands out from other perennial shrubs in a subtle way. Unlike those with bold, showy blooms, daphne produces flowers that often blend into the green foliage, making them easy to overlook visually, but unmistakable by their sweet, fragrant scent.

This slow-growing shrub typically begins to flower in late winter or early spring. It’s easy to grow and relatively low maintenance, making it a great addition to many gardens. However, keep in mind that daphne is toxic if ingested, so it’s important to keep pets and children away from the plant.

Daylily

	botanical name Hemerocallis spp.
	sun requirements Full sun to partial shade
	height 1-3′
	hardiness zones 3-9

Daylilies are among the prettiest and most low-maintenance plants you can add to your yard. Despite their name, they’re not true lilies. But they do produce stunning, large perennial blooms that thrive in shade and return year after year with minimal care.

One of the best things about daylilies is the wide variety available. You can choose from many different flower colors and even select varieties based on their bloom time. Whether you want them to flower in early spring, mid-season, or later in the year, there’s a daylily for every preference.

They perform best when planted in early fall and in a shaded location, making them a perfect shade perennial for zone 8 gardens. However, in some regions of zone 8 they are invasive.

Edgeworthia

	botanical name Edgeworthia chrysantha
	sun requirements Full sun to partial shade
	height 4-6′
	hardiness zones 7-10

Edgeworthia, commonly known as paperbush, is a slender flowering shrub with relatively large leaves. The foliage is arranged in a way that mimics a floral pattern, and when paired with the bright yellow flower clusters and tiny white blooms, it creates a striking visual appeal in the garden.

Though it may have an unusual appearance compared to more common shrubs, edgeworthia thrives in warmer climates like those found in zone 8. It’s also a versatile plant when it comes to soil, growing well in clay, loamy, or sandy conditions. Regardless of the soil type, it’s important to keep it consistently moist to support healthy growth.

Golden Japanese Forest Grass

	botanical name Hakonechloa macra
	sun requirements Full sun to full shade
	height 24″
	hardiness zones 5-9

Golden Japanese forest grass is one of the standout shade perennials for zone 8 and an excellent choice for ground cover or shaded borders. Its bright yellow leaves and slender green stems add a pop of color, even in low-light areas. Gardeners especially love the subtle pink hue the leaves develop during the cooler months.

Even in deep shade, this plant has a way of brightening up the landscape. When planting golden Japanese forest grass, be sure to water it regularly. It thrives in very moist soil, so weekly watering is typically sufficient. You’ll need to water more frequently during dry spells to keep the soil consistently moist.

Hellebore

	botanical name Helleborus spp.
	sun requirements Partial to full shade
	height 18-24″
	hardiness zones 4-9

While most perennials bloom from early to late spring, hellebore offers a welcome pop of color during the winter months. The flowers come in a mesmerizing range of shades, making them a standout in any garden. These hardy perennials can also thrive in colder zones and are a favorite among shade gardeners in zone 7 and beyond.

You’ll find varieties with pure white blooms, others in deep purple with hints of pink and white, and many beautiful combinations in between. Hellebores prefer rich, well-drained soil to thrive. If you live in an area with a high deer population, you’ll be happy to know that these flowers are highly deer-resistant.

Heartleaf Brunnera

	botanical name Brunnera macrophylla ‘Queen of Hearts’
	sun requirements Partial to full shade
	height 12-18″
	hardiness zones 3-8

Most gardeners and plant enthusiasts love heartleaf brunnera for its excellent shade tolerance. It makes an ideal ground cover, thanks to its large, deep green leaves with silvery-white variegation. When in bloom, the plant is dotted with delicate light blue flowers that add a soft touch of color.

Heartleaf brunnera thrives in full shade and prefers consistently moist soil. Fortunately, shaded areas help retain soil moisture longer than spots exposed to full sun. When planted in the right conditions, it grows quickly and requires minimal upkeep. Just be sure to cut back the old foliage in spring rather than fall to keep the plant healthy and looking its best.

Hostas

	botanical name Hosta spp.
	sun requirements Partial to full shade
	height 3′
	hardiness zones 3-9

Hostas are shade-loving perennials that are both easy to grow and visually appealing, making them a great addition to any yard or garden. Depending on the variety, hosta foliage can range from light green to deep emerald, with some cultivars featuring yellow or golden hues.

For hostas to thrive, they need well-drained, consistently moist soil. If you must plant them in an area that receives some sunlight, be sure to keep the soil damp to prevent the leaves from drying out or scorching.

Illicium

	botanical name Illicium parviflorum
	sun requirements Partial to full shade
	height 15′
	hardiness zones 6-9

Illicium is a unique shrub (sometimes considered a small tree) that brings beauty and fragrance to the garden. While it can grow quite tall, many gardeners choose to trim it back to maintain a more manageable height. One of its standout features is the pleasant fragrance it provides for much of the year.

The shrub is mostly green, but it does produce small yellow flowers that eventually develop into star-shaped fruit. Despite its ornamental appeal, it’s important to note that the fruit is toxic and should not be consumed by people or pets.

Illicium thrives in moist, well-drained soil, making it a good fit for shaded or partially shaded spots in your yard.

Japanese Fatsia

	botanical name Fatsia japonica
	sun requirements Partial to full shade
	height 6-19′
	hardiness zones 7-10

Japanese fatsia, also known as Japanese aralia, is a tropical plant that performs well in zone 8. It can be grown outdoors or used as a striking houseplant. With its broad, evergreen leaves (some reaching up to a foot in width), it adds lush, bold texture to any space when properly cared for.

To thrive, Japanese fatsia needs slightly acidic, compost-rich soil that stays consistently moist, so regular watering is essential.

Compared to some other shade perennials in zone 8, this plant requires a bit more maintenance. Regular pruning helps encourage healthy growth and keeps the leaves looking full and glossy.

Kerria

	botanical name Kerria japonica
	sun requirements Partial shade
	height 10′
	hardiness zones 4-9

While many plants include dozens of species within their genus, Kerria stands out as the only species in its genus. This unusual shrub produces charming, five-petaled flowers with flat petals that spread outward in a simple, elegant pattern. It thrives in partial shade and prefers average to moderately moist soil.

Unlike other perennials that tolerate or prefer clay soil, Kerria does best in loamy soil and should be watered regularly to maintain consistent moisture. Regular pruning is also essential to keep the plant healthy and vigorous. Be sure to prune before new growth begins in the spring.

Lungwort

	botanical name Pulmonaria spp.
	sun requirements Partial shade
	height 6-12″
	hardiness zones 3-9

Lungwort makes a wonderful addition to shade gardens, despite its less-than-appealing name. There are between 10 and 18 species found growing naturally in its native habitats, and all are valued for their ornamental qualities. This perennial produces clusters of vibrant pink and purple flowers that stand out beautifully in shaded spaces.

Its foliage is just as eye-catching, with green leaves often dotted with silvery-white spots. For best results, plant lungwort in well-drained, consistently moist soil. While it can tolerate partial shade, it thrives in full shade, making it ideal for darker corners of the garden.

Oakleaf Hydrangea

	botanical name Hydrangea quercifolia
	sun requirements Partial to full shade
	height 4-6′
	hardiness zones 5-9

Oakleaf hydrangeas are easy to recognize by their distinctive lobed leaves, which resemble those of an oak tree. In spring, they produce beautiful white flower clusters, although some cultivars offer shades of pink, blue, or other soft hues.

These perennials can grow quite tall, but regular pruning will help maintain your preferred size and shape. Oakleaf hydrangeas are drought-resistant, making them a great choice for lower-maintenance gardens.

Another bonus: they’re rarely bothered by pests or disease. They prefer well-drained soil and will still bloom reliably even in partially shaded areas.

Pineapple Lily

	botanical name Eucomis spp.
	sun requirements Full sun to partial shade
	height 12-36″
	hardiness zones 7-10

Pineapple lilies are striking, tropical-looking shade perennials for zone 8. Their spiky flower heads closely resemble the shape of a pineapple, which inspired their name (though they aren’t related to the fruit at all). Surprisingly, they’re more closely related to asparagus.

These plants grow from bulbs and often take a season or two before they begin to flower, so a bit of patience is required. When adding pineapple lilies to your garden, it’s a good idea to start them in pots before transplanting them outdoors. Once in the ground, they’ll do best in well-prepared, well-drained soil to prevent rot and encourage healthy growth.

Shasta Daisy

	botanical name Leucanthemum × superbum
	sun requirements Full sun to partial shade
	height 3-4′
	hardiness zones 4-9

Shasta daisies offer some of the most cheerful summer blooms among shade-tolerant perennials in zone 8. With their sunny yellow centers and crisp white petals, they bring a classic charm to any garden bed. Depending on the variety, plants can stay compact or grow over three feet tall.

They perform best in fertile, well-drained soil. Unlike some other daisy varieties, Shasta daisies do not tolerate soggy conditions. It’s essential to plant them where excess water can drain away easily.

Siberian Bugloss

	botanical name Brunnera macrophylla
	sun requirements Partial to full shade
	height 12-18″
	hardiness zones 3-8

We discussed heartleaf brunnera earlier in this piece. Now we’re talking about the straight species. Siberian bugloss is often compared to forget-me-nots, thanks to its delicate blue flowers and charming appearance. But what sets it apart is its large, heart-shaped foliage that adds bold texture to shady garden beds.

Flowers typically bloom in April and May, giving you several weeks of vibrant spring color. While it thrives in partial shade, Siberian bugloss may appreciate full shade in warmer climates like zone 8. Plant it in rich, consistently moist soil to encourage healthy growth and abundant blooms.

Spotted Deadnettle

	botanical name Lamium maculatum
	sun requirements Partial to full shade
	height 3-8″
	hardiness zones 3-9

Spotted deadnettle is an excellent ground cover, prized for its adaptability and charming purple blooms. Unlike many other perennials, it tolerates a wide range of soil types, making it a reliable choice for varied garden conditions.

To encourage fuller growth, pinch the stems back occasionally. Just keep an eye on it, as spotted deadnettle spreads quickly and can become invasive if left unchecked.

Tall Garden Phlox

	botanical name Phlox paniculata
	sun requirements Full sun to partial shade
	height 2-4′
	hardiness zones 4-8

Tall garden phlox is a wonderful way to add vibrant color to your yard without adding much to your to-do list. These plants are easygoing. Just keep the soil consistently moist and protect them from extreme heat and harsh, direct sun in zone 8. In cooler climates, they can handle full sun without issue.

Gardeners love tall garden phlox for their wide range of colors, from soft purples and pinks to pure white and multi-colored blooms. Once in flower, they’re a magnet for butterflies and hummingbirds, bringing even more life and movement to your garden.

Toad Lily

	botanical name Tricyrtis hirta
	sun requirements Partial to full shade
	height 2-3′
	hardiness zones 4-8

Toad lilies are shade-loving perennials that naturally grow in woodland areas or near streams, making them a perfect fit for zone 8 gardens where they’re protected from intense summer heat. Once planted, they prefer consistently moist soil. Never let it dry out completely.

One of the standout features of the toad lily is its broad, clasping leaves and the vibrant, speckled flowers that bloom late in the season. With their unique patterns and orchid-like appearance, they add unexpected flair to shaded spaces. Despite their exotic look, toad lilies are surprisingly low-maintenance and well-suited to residential gardens.

Wine Common Periwinkle

	botanical name Vinca minor ‘Atropurpurea’
	sun requirements Partial to full shade
	height 6″
	hardiness zones 4-9

Wine common periwinkles are among the most striking shade perennials you can add to a zone 8 garden. Their rich purple-magenta blooms stand out beautifully against glossy green foliage, creating a bold contrast that instantly draws the eye.

These plants thrive in rich, slightly moist soil and prefer full to partial shade. They’re especially well-suited to planting beneath trees, where the canopy offers consistent cover. Another popular way to showcase them is to let them spill over low walls or raised beds, where their trailing habit adds soft, cascading texture to the landscape. Just be sure they’re protected from too much direct sun to keep them looking their best.