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Regional Picks: Bold Plants for Shade

Kaitlyn Hayes By Kaitlyn Hayes Fine Gardening - Issue 168

Finding plants that flourish in the shade isn’t the challenge. Anyone can find a flock of ferns or a herd of hostas to turn their shade garden into a green sea of sameness. The challenge arises when you start expecting more from those shady spots. You have to first find bold plants that thrive in partial or full shade, and then incorporate these show-stoppers in a cohesive way. It may take a little more thought and creativity to design a successful shade garden, but whoever complained about spending extra hours toiling in the cool comfort of the shade?

If it’s time to transform those dark corners of your garden, we’ve knocked the first step out of the way for you. Whether you’re a sucker for bright blooms, or unique foliage is more your style, you’ll find the perfect bold shade plant for your region and your garden below.

For even more colorful shade plants, and advice on designing in the shade, check out:

How to Design a Colorful Shade Garden

Shade Plants With Shiny Foliage

Plants That Shine in the Shade

Ideas to Spruce Up Your Shade

Episode 63: Color in the Shade

 

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