What are Shade Perennials?

Shade perennials are plants that regrow for at least two years – and usually three to four before they have to be replaced – but cannot take a lot of sunlight. This is why they are called “shade perennials”: because they must be placed in the shade or they will fry from overexposure to light.

One one of the most planted shade perennials is Lavender. Lavender has lush green stems and beautiful, spiky flowers that can span the rainbow in terms of colors. Lavender, as with most shade perennials, must be planted in moist, rich soil – and should be tended to regularly. If you are willing water your Lavender constantly to keep the soil moist, you may be able to keep it in the sunlight. Most variations of Lavender grow from about 15” to 20” at maturity.

Another gardener's favorite out of the shade perennials is the Bleeding Heart. Most people are familiar with this plant because it has such a distinct look: the flower appears to be pink and white hearts. These shade perennials grow fern leaves that hang several inches under the flowers. The Bleeding Heart also must be tended to carefully and shaded from sunlight.

Another favorite – and a somewhat larger perennial – is the Blue Bell. These beautiful, baby blue flowers grow up to 36” at maturity. Unlike most shade perennials, they can handle partial shade or even minimal sunlight.

Perhaps one of the most planted shade perennials is the Shasta Daisy, a variation most gardeners know and love. This flower has truly beautiful white petals. These shade perennials can also grow quite tall in comparison to other shade perennials, reaching heights of up to 36 inches.

No matter what shade perennials you purchase, you will have your work cut out for you. You will need to purchase potting soil to ensure that the plants will be able to regrow each year; and you will need to keep them shaded and well-watered.

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