Best Shade-Loving Plants for Tree-Lined Developments

Trees are often planted along streets in cities to reduce the urban heat effect.  While beautiful, these trees often shade the landscape around them enough to keep turfgrass from growing.  Landscaping with shade-loving plants instead of turfgrass can offer a solution.

Types of Shade

The type of shade an area receives will affect the plants that will grow there.  Heavy or dense shade is the most challenging type of shade.  Plants here must tolerate continuous low light conditions.  Partial shade or dappled shade mimics the shade found in woodland areas and increases the number of species that will grow.  Half shade means that something, usually a building, casts a shadow causing shade.  For part of the day, the area may be in full sun.  The other part of the day, the area is in full shade.  Some sun-loving plants will grow in half shade as long as the area is sunny at least six hours a day.

Dry Shade Versus Moist Shade

Most woodlands have moist soil.  Shade loving plants usually grow best in moist areas.  The adaptations that make shade plants do well in the shade, such as thin leaves with lots of pores make them highly susceptible to drought.  Conversely, the adaptions of plants who are drought tolerant, such as small leaves, make it hard for them to grow in shade.

Conifer areas are a case in point.  Mature spruce trees shed snow easily and use a lot of water.  The are under their canopy is often quite dry.  Typical shade plants struggle to grow in such conditions.  There are, however, a few shade plants that do well in dry shade.  Here are three suggested plants for dry shade.

Columbine

Columbine Plant

Columbine is native to the Eastern United States.  It comes in a variety of colors, but the native one is red with yellow stamins.  This plant grows 1-3 feet tall and spreads to about 1.5 feet.  The foliage is green with three to five lobes.  Columbine attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.  Birds eat the seeds.

Lily of the Valley

Lilly of the Valley

Lily of the Valley has long, green leaves and white bell-shaped flowers.  It grows to a height of ten inches and a spread of twelve inches.  Lily of the valley can spread aggressively under ideal growing conditions.  While beautiful, all parts of the plant are poisonous to dogs, cats, horses, and humans.

Hosta

Hosta

Hostas come in a variety of shapes and sizes.  Some have solid green leaves, while others have variegated leaves.  There is even one with blue-green leaves.  They do well in shade and their leaves can burn or fade in heavy sun.  Dappled shade is ideal, but part shade or even full shade work for this plant.  Hostas range from four inches tall to just over 2.5 feet tall, so you can probably find a Hosta to fit your landscape.

Texture, Form, And Foliage Color Rule

Most shade-loving plants do not have long, continuous blooms.  They may have colored blooms that do not last long or tiny flowers that are hard to see.  By using texture, form, and colored foliage instead of blooms to choose plants, you can grow a very beautiful shade garden.

Texture

Using plants with different textures provides both sensual and visual interest.  A plant like lamb’s ear, an herb with a soft, fuzzy leaf that is silver-green contrasts nicely with a plant with thick, leathery leaves like a magnolia tree.  If a magnolia tree is causing the shade, lamb’s ear makes an excellent ground cover around it.

Form

Form refers to how the plant looks when growing.  Trees are generally tall, as are shrubs.  Perennials come in upright forms, spreading forms, and creeping forms.  Mixing shade plants that have different forms creates visual interest.  It also increases the species diversity, so one pest or disease won’t wipe out the whole garden.

Foliage Shape

Wild Ginger

The shape of the foliage can also be of interest.  Almost everyone knows what a maple leaf looks like.  It contrasts with a pine needle.  However, there are lots of foliage shapes in between.  For example, wild ginger has heart shaped leaves and loves shade, making it perfect for a shade garden.

Foliage Color

When you ask someone what color leaves are, most people will answer “green”.  However, not all foliage is green.  Some types of Japanese Maple have burgundy leaves.  Other plants have foliage that is a different color than green.  Of course, most deciduous plants have leaves that change color before they fall in autumn.

Many plants have leaves are variegated with white or yellow.  There are also plants with yellow or white leaves variegated with green.  Picking plants with different variegated patterns can add a lot of interest to a shade garden.  Many plants with variegated leaves love shade.  In fact, some plants have variegated leaves that fade in the sunlight.

Bloom Color

Many shade plants have what biologists term “insignificant” flowers and are planted for the foliage.  These are some shade plants that produce pretty flowers.  Most of them only bloom for a few weeks, however.  Bugleweed is an example and makes a nice ground cover with blue flowers.

Planters

A disadvantage of planting under shade trees is the tree roots.  Tree roots can absorb a great deal of water and nutrients.  They also take up space in the soil so other plants can’t flourish. 

To avoid these problems, you can use planters and urns to hold shade-loving plants that are placed around the area.  In parts of the landscape that see a high level of traffic, these planters should be too big to be easily removed or stolen.

Putting shade loving plants that spread aggressively in planters will help keep them from taking over the landscape.  Herb gardeners do this with mint, which is very aggressive.

Using planters to hold perennials does mean you will need to water them more often than other parts of the landscape.  Limited soil volume means the soil will dry out more quickly than the soil around in-ground plants.  Drip irrigation that comes on twice daily may be necessary if you live in a hot climate.

You can make an attractive shade garden using a variety of plants with interesting textures, forms, and foliage colors.  Shade gardens are a viable option for areas too shady for turfgrass.

Columbine Plant

Columbine Plant

Columbine - Aquilegia  Columbine is a perennial known for its bold red and yellow flowers, which look like hanging lanterns. Its unique shape and vibrant colors make it a favorite of pollinators such as hummingbirds and butterflies. The plant brings life and beauty to any landscape. If you want to add a splash of color to indoor or outdoor spaces, the plant is worth buying. It is relatively small, so you can put it anywhere on your property without crowding other shrubs or trees. It tends to grow in clumps, meaning you can get multiple flowers and stems from a single seed or group of seeds. It will typically grow to about one to three feet in height. The flowers it produces can be almost any color, depending on the exact species that you happen to have. Standard colors include blue, pink, and yellow; in some cases, you may see multiple colors from the same one. One of the critical benefits of planting this item in your garden is that it can attract deer, rabbits, and other forms of wildlife. However, they tend to be most attractive to deer or rabbits looking for food. Fortunately, they tend to resist these creatures, which means you can enjoy the scenery without worrying about having to relocate or replant your flowers. Columbine Plants Are Great For Pollinators  You will also notice that it is attractive to pollinators such as bees or hummingbirds. Ultimately, you can help other flowers in your yard or nearby areas thrive while having something fascinating to look at when you're outside each day. Columbine Plant Does Well In Cold Weather The growth cycle of it tends to be a relatively short one. Therefore, you will notice the rush of color in your garden and wherever you decide to put it. As they generally do well in cold weather, you can put them out almost whenever you want without ruining them. A final benefit to buying the plant is that it creates new seeds quickly on its own. Therefore, you may notice multiple shoots on your property without investing much time and money.The plant also comes in hybrids that grow well in climates of any kind. The first, and perhaps the most crucial, need of the plants is a little shade during the warmer months and good drainage so roots don't get rotted.  Plant the seeds after a frost or late fall. : Spread the seeds on the moist soil, then firmly plant them down; regularly water them until they sprout into seedlings.  They're pretty easy to propagate as, once they open their blooms, they release seeds, which you need to plant in well-drained soil. Please note: The seeds are not very fast germinating so it could take weeks to notice results!  Columbine is only able to last for about 2-3 years. But they self-seed and so live on in the garden for many years to come. Deadhead as much as possible for longevity.

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Lily Of The Valley - TN Nursery

Lily Of The Valley

Lily Of The Valley: Convallaria majalis Lily Of The Valley is a delicate perennial plant with nodding, bell-shaped white flowers and fragrant, sword-shaped leaves. It creates a charming ground cover in shaded garden areas and offers various benefits when integrated into landscaping designs. Its graceful appearance, sweet fragrance, adaptability, and contributions to outdoor spaces' visual and sensory aspects make it a prized addition to gardens. It is a classic. It is associated with purity, virtue, humility, and compassion. The proper scientific name is Convallaria majalishe, and the plant is related to good fortune, joy, hopefulness, happiness, prosperity, and blessings. The herbaceous perennials begin to bloom in mid-May and continue to maintain a delightfully fragrant display until summer officially arrives in mid-June. With its exquisitely tiny bell-shaped, ornamental flowers, the shrub has a low-key and understated beauty. Rather than a profuse explosion of showy blossoms, these plants have a quietly powerful presence. They can grow almost anywhere, whether in a valley or not. Slim curving stems give expression to glossy, deep green leaves that gently cradle sweet clusters of delicate, refined flowers. Each bell-shaped blossom hangs from a stem like a precious ornament, while the captivating scent delights the senses. The Symbolic Significance Of Lily Of The Valley  They are associated with May Day. They symbolize a beautiful awakening after a long winter of darkness and hardship. The airy little flowers refresh the weary soul and promise a return to happiness and new hope. When the pretty white bells burst into view, they remind us that warm summers always follow dark winters with their alluring fragrance. Lily Of The Valley Is Used In Perfumes  When the alluring fragrance of them was converted to perfume and cologne in 1954, it inspired a line of products. Then, in 1956, Dior marketed it under the name Diorissimo. It was an instant hit for men and women alike.  It can produce a thick carpet of ground cover while filling the air with a captivating scent. The deep green leaves make fabulous bouquets and cut flowers. With their curving stems, the plants can produce up to 12 tiny flowers with up to six tiny petals. The clusters are often included in bridal bouquets. Some bouquets consist entirely of them. The engaging blooms make a lovely statement when used to adorn wrapped gifts for weddings and showers.  It grows in partially shaded to shaded areas in well-drained soil. They prefer a cool, moist area, which makes it suitable for woodland gardens or shaded borders.  Lily of the Valley has a unique fragrance; it is sweet and fresh with some hint of citrus. This is commonly used in perfumes and is well appreciated for its relaxing and mood-boosting features.

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hosta plant - TN Nursery

Hosta

Hosta - Plantain Lilies Hostas are shade-loving perennials known for their large, heart-shaped, and often variegated leaves and spikes of bell-shaped flowers, making them popular choices for garden borders and landscaping in low-light areas. They are renowned for their lush foliage and graceful appearance, which offer many benefits when incorporated into landscaping designs. These versatile perennials have gained popularity for their ability to enhance outdoor spaces with their aesthetic appeal, adaptability, and ease of maintenance. It is an attractive herbaceous plant that can grow up to 4 feet in height, although a height of 18 inches is more common. There are several species of them, each with slight differences in leaf color. Each species has a different bloom, making exceptional focal points in any garden. Hosta Has Stunning Leaves The type seen most commonly in the United States is the "Keepsake." The charming green leaves ringed with yellow accents are popular because of their hardiness in different climates and the beautiful vistas they create in a garden. Sometimes, the lighter color rings are shades of white rather than yellow, but they don't lose any eye-catching effects. They have leaves of a single color, usually dark green. All their leaves are sturdy and ribbed, even if they're longer and tapered rather than cheerfully oval. Compliment Your Landscape With Hostas Most versions have pretty purple or white flowers that bloom in the early summer through the beginning of fall. The flower buds form in the middle of spring and are generally the same color as the flowers. Even when they're just budding, they are beautiful plants that complement everything else in the garden. Once the buds bloom, the flowers form trumpet, bell, or elongated pendulous shapes. Only one version of these flowers has a strong scent, called the "August Lily." It's a shy flower, blooming in the evening and closing up again by morning, so it'll brighten up any garden when the sun goes down. It Does Great With Other Plants When they are surrounded by flowers of similar colors, such as California bluebells for the species with violet flowers or tuberose for the white-flowered species, it creates a breathtaking effect. Alternating the various species in concentric rings would increase their appeal and let them truly shine. The blooms, such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, are essential for pollinators. The flowers provide nectar, and the leaves collect dew in the mornings, allowing these little creatures to drink while visiting the garden. These plants grow in partial shade or full shade, hence suitable for gardens that may offer limited sunlight. They grow well in well-draining and nutrient-filled soils and should be watered consistently, especially during dry periods.  They are perennials and go dormant in winter. Prune dead foliage in the fall and then put a layer of mulch to protect the roots from freezing.  They come in all sorts of sizes, from small miniatures to large sprawling plants. Their foliage comprises beautiful green, blue and gold that may have different patterns.  Snails or slugs are common enemies for the plants. You can use eggshells or diatomaceous earth around the base. You can also reduce pest problems by maintaining a clean environment and ensuring good air circulation in the garden.   Hostas are perfect for container gardening and, therefore, can be placed on the patio or in other small spaces. It is advisable to plant the flower in a pot with a good drainage hole; water it frequently and place it in a shaded area.

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Sugar Maple Tree - TN Nursery

Sugar Maple Tree

Sugar Maple Tree: Acer Saccharum The Sugar Maple Tree (Acer saccharum) is a handsome type admired for its thick canopy, autumnal colors, and applications. Because of its beautiful appearance and versatility, it is the ideal type for homeowners who wish to add a touch of class and shade to their backyard. Sugar Maple Tree's Ease of Planting and Maintenance  They are easy to plant and is a popular choice among gardeners of all types. These are very hardy and prefer well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade. Put the root ball in a hole twice its diameter, place the tree, and add soil and water. Once planted, they need little maintenance. Its advantages include drought tolerance, insect resistance, occasional irrigation when wet, and annual mulching to conserve moisture. Acer Saccharum's Seasonal Blooms and Color Changes  They have tiny, yellow-green flowers in spring that make the garden look pretty. During the summer, the green leaves provide thick shading to keep you cool and fresh. Its canopy of leaves turns into a riot of warm colors, such as red and orange, during the fall season and is a stunning feature of any garden or yard. It remains dormant in winter, the entirety of its spanning branches visible beneath. They are round-shaped, with a thick canopy. They range from 60 to 75 feet tall and 40 to 50 feet wide. If appropriately maintained, these can live for over 100 years and become a beloved feature in your garden. Life Cycle of Sugar Maple Trees at TN Nursery The Sugar Maple Trees at TN Nursery are grown in high-quality conditions and delivered as ready-to-plant specimens. These grow quickly and offer stunning seasonal color, shade, and durability. Plant one in your garden to give your home years of timeless beauty!

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Wild ginger plant - Tn Nursery

Wild Ginger - Asarum

Wild ginger plant - Asarum Canadense Wild ginger plant, Asarum canadense is an excellent, easy plant for shade and does not require much attention. It is most famous for its uniqueness and variety and is perfect for adding color and texture to your landscape. It is simple. It loves a rich, organic soil and grows in part to full shade, making it an ideal companion plant for woodland gardens or shade borders. Once established, this plant needs little maintenance other than frequent watering in dry periods and the pulling of dead leaves to keep it neat.  Stunning Foliage of the Wild Ginger Plant Their heart-shaped leaves form a dense blanket of foliage in shades from deep green to silvery pastels. Throughout the season, their leaves come alive and enhance the landscape. The plant is primarily prized for its leaves, but in the spring, it will bear small bell-shaped flowers around its base.   Wild Ginger Plant Has a Long Lifespan These flowers, usually dark reddish-brown, are tiny and romantic, adding a bit of personality to the plant. It is a perennial plant, which means it will grow year after year. Its leaves are beautiful in the spring through the fall, and while it does not color change in a way, it keeps garden plantings in place. Given adequate attention, this plant can last decades in your garden, making it an excellent addition to the collection. The Native Perennial's Growing Capabilities The Wild Ginger Plant is available at TN Nursery as a perennial plant that can take root quickly in your garden. The sturdy texture and flexibility of the tree make it an ideal plant for making low-maintenance, shaded bed beds. Grow it in your garden today and feel the timeless beauty of it for years to come.

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Bugleweed Plant - TN Nursery

Bugleweed Plant

Bugleweed Plant: Ajuga Bugleweed plant is a ground-covering perennial ground cover known for its low-growing, spreading nature and attractive foliage. It is often used in landscaping for its vibrant leaves and small spikes of blue, purple, or pink flowers. It will quickly fill empty spaces, making it an excellent choice for areas with poor soil or where other types struggle to thrive. It is a versatile and attractive perennial with numerous landscaping benefits. Its unique characteristics and adaptability make it popular in various garden settings and design schemes. Bugle, also called carpet bugle, ground pine, bugle, or ajuga, is a family of 60 related flowering perennials. The different species are found in the wild in Australia, Africa, Asia, and Europe. Because of their impressive attributes, they are also introduced into yards and gardens outside these areas. With a closer look at the many benefits of introducing bugle to your space, it is the perfect new addition to your landscaping. Bugleweed Plant Is A Fast-Growing Ground Cover This creeping type grows up to 20 inches tall, although some species are as short as two inches. It proliferates by shooting runners on top of the soil. These runners create a fascinating look, and they quickly sprout new stems. In the wild, it blankets meadows and other open spaces, so it is well-suited for putting in areas of your yard that need ground cover. Notably, the plant is often used to prevent soil loss from erosion because of its ability to spread rapidly across steep slopes. Weeds are a nuisance that inevitably requires frequent attention. They can overtake your yard and leave it unkempt when not tended to regularly. As a fast-moving ground cover, bugles crowd out the weeds. As a result, their growth could be improved, and they will quickly become less of a nuisance in your space. You can start enjoying your yard more rather than worrying about keeping up with the weeds.  Has Stunning Blooms The plant is a fascinating species with dark, shiny leaves that grow oppositely. During the flowering season, usually in the middle or end of the spring months, spikes shoot up that may be as tall as 10 inches above its base. These spikes produce purple, violet, or blue flowers. The flowers have long, flowing petals that some people describe as looking like a woman’s skirt. Deer and Rabbit Resistant  Most rodents and mammals do not like the morsel of it and stay away from it. As a result, it is ideal for yards where deer and other animals forage and cause damage. At the same time, insects are attracted to its pollen. During the flowering season, you may spot moths, butterflies, and bees on the blooms. As essential pollinators, these insects are crucial to maintaining a healthy ecosystem in your yard.  It is a low-growing, easy-to-grow evergreen perennial with lovely green leaves and dark purple to blue flowers. It is tolerant of many soil types and is usually cultivated in shade, which provides an overlying layer of leaves that keeps weeds at bay.  It is also one of the easiest plants to maintain because it will do just about anything. Once planted, it adapts to almost any soil and doesn't require much water.  Groundcover Benefits  It works very well as a ground cover because it forms a carpet and spreads quickly. It helps in the weeds as the plant has thick leaves throughout the season. Does it  Attract Pollinators  The plant's purple or blue flower spikes are particularly interesting to bees and butterflies. It is an attractive addition to your garden and certainly beneficial if you want to encourage local wildlife.  Can it be Grown in Containers Bugleweed can be easily propagated in containers, making it a good addition to a patio or balcony. The pots or containers should be well drained.

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