Shrubs that grow in shade provide an amazing variety of foliage, flowers, and even fruit that can bring life to a shaded area in your garden. They are typically classified as shrubs that can tolerate part shade and full shade, although there are some varieties that do require more sun to thrive.

The good news is there is a variety of shade loving shrubs for nearly every type of soil and every hardiness zone. Whether you have a shady spot or wet soil, there are shrubs that will provide beauty to your landscape.

From fragrant flowers in early spring to bright green foliage in light shade, there are a number of beautiful shrubs for you to choose from. Mountain laurel and witch hazel are two of the most popular and have fragrant flowers in early spring, deep shade, and prefer acidic soil.

Broadleaf evergreens are also popular choices and come in many shapes, sizes, and colors – they provide year-round interest with bright green foliage and some may produce berries in late winter or early spring.

Each type of shrub will also have its own requirements for moisture, soil type, pH balance, and light levels, so you’ll need to do a little research to determine which is best suited for your space.

But no matter what you choose, you’re sure to find a shade-loving shrub that fits your needs and is easy to grow. So if you’re looking for color in the garden even when there isn’t any sun – read on to learn more about shrubs that grow in shade from part shade to full sun!

Best 13 Shrubs That Grow In Shade That Will Add Splash of Color to Your Garden

1. Pieris japonica

Pieris japonica is a shrub that is known to grow in shady areas. This plant is popular among gardeners because of its unique ability to thrive in shady areas.

Pieris japonica is a member of the Ericaceae family and is native to Japan. This shrub can grow to be about 3 feet tall and has white or pink flowers that bloom in the spring. The Pieris japonica is an evergreen shrub, meaning that it will keep its leaves all year round.

They are typically found in areas of high rainfall, such as in Japan and Korea. These shrubs are known for their beautiful flowers, which can range in color from white to pink. The leaves are simple and elliptical, and the fruit is a capsule.

Pieris japonica shrubs are beautiful hardy plants and they are perfect for adding a splash of color to any garden, and their delicate white flowers are a sight to behold.

2. Hydrangea macrophylla

Hydrangea macrophylla shrubs are a type of shrub that grows best in shady areas. These shrubs are known for their large, showy flowers that bloom in a variety of colors. Hydrangea macrophylla shrubs are a popular choice for gardens and landscaping projects due to their beauty and easy-care requirements.

Hydrangea macrophylla shrubs are versatile plants that can be grown in both full sun and partial shade. In shady areas, they will produce fewer flowers, but the blooms will be larger and more vibrant. These shrubs are relatively easy to care for, and they make a beautiful addition to any garden.

3. Rhododendron indicum

Rhododendron indicum is a shrub that typically grows in shady areas. These plants are known for their large, brightly-colored flowers, which make them a popular choice for gardens and landscaping. These shrubs are known for their beautiful flowers, which can range in color from white to pink.

The shrubs typically grow to be about 6 feet tall, and they prefer to grow in acidic soils. Rhododendron indicum shrubs can be difficult to care for, however, as they are sensitive to changes in light and water conditions.

If you are considering adding one of these plants to your garden, be sure to do some research to make sure you can provide the proper care.

4. Camellia sinensis

Camellia sinensis is a shrub that thrives in shade. It is a member of the tea family and is native to Asia. The leaves and leaf buds of the plant are used to make tea and it is one of the most widely consumed beverages in the world.

The Camellia sinensis shrub is an important source of antioxidants and other biologically active compounds and has been used medicinally for centuries. The Camellia sinensis plant is a small evergreen shrub that grows to a height of 3-6 meters.

The leaves are dark green and glossy, and the flowers are white or pale pink. The plant prefers shady conditions and is frost-sensitive.

5. Mahonia aquifolium

Mahonia aquifolium shrubs are a common sight in shaded areas. They are known for their hardy nature and their ability to thrive in low-light conditions.

These shrubs are a great addition to any garden, and they are sure to add a touch of elegance to any landscape. These shrubs are known for their evergreen leaves, which are often used in ornamental landscaping.

The leaves of Mahonia aquifolium are usually dark green and glossy, with sharp spines along the edges. The shrubs produce small, yellow flowers in the spring, followed by dark blueberries.

Mahonia aquifolium is native to the western United States and Canada and is commonly used as an ornamental plant in these regions. The Mahonia aquifolium shrub typically grows to be between six and twelve feet tall. The flowers of this shrub are yellow and they bloom in the springtime.

The berries of the Mahonia aquifolium shrub are blue-black in color and they are poisonous to humans if they are ingested.

6. Erica carnea

Erica carnea shrubs are a type of shrub that is known for growing in shady areas. These shrubs are native to Europe, and they are often used as ornamental plants in gardens. Erica carnea shrubs typically have pink or white flowers, and they can range in height from one to three feet.

Erica carnea shrubs have many benefits for those who choose to grow them. They are known to be very low maintenance, and they are also very tolerant of shade. This makes them an ideal choice for gardeners who do not want to spend a lot of time caring for their plants.

Erica carnea shrubs are also known for their beautiful flowers, which can add a touch of elegance to any garden.

7. Buxus sempervirens

The Buxus sempervirens shrub is a species of plant that is known to thrive and grow best in shaded areas. This particular type of shrub is native to parts of Europe, Africa, and Asia, and is commonly used as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscaping designs due to its evergreen leaves and dense growth.

Although the Buxus sempervirens can grow in both sun and shade, it is important to note that the plant will need more water if it is grown in an area with direct sunlight, as opposed to shaded areas where it will require less watering. Buxus sempervirens is an evergreen shrub, which means that it will retain its leaves throughout the year.

8. Ilex aquifolium

Ilex aquifolium, also known as holly, is a shrub that typically grows in shady areas. The leaves of Ilex aquifolium are glossy and dark green, and the shrub produces small, white flowers that bloom in the spring.

Ilex aquifolium is dioecious, meaning that individual shrubs are either male or female. This shrub is an important source of food for many animals, including birds, deer, and small mammals. The leaves of Ilex aquifolium are evergreen and have a spiny, glossy appearance.

The flowers are small and white, and the fruit is a red berry. Ilex aquifolium is commonly used as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks. Ilex aquifolium is a popular plant for hedges and topiary, as it can be easily shaped. Ilex aquifolium is native to Europe, Asia, and North America.

9. Euonymus fortunei

Euonymus fortunei is a shrub that can prosper in shady conditions. It is an evergreen that can grow to about 15 feet tall. The leaves of this plant are glossy and dark green, with a paler green underside. The flowers are small and inconspicuous, but they are followed by bright red fruits that are very showy.

Euonymus fortunei, also known as wintercreeper, is a shrub that is native to East Asia. It is a member of the family Celastraceae, which contains approximately 170 species of flowering plants.

The genus Euonymus consists of shrubs and small trees that are found in a variety of habitats, including forests, woodlands, and scrubland. Euonymus fortunei is a low-growing shrub that can reach a height of 1-2 m.

The leaves are opposite, elliptical in shape, and 6-12 cm long. The leaves are dark green in color and have a glossy appearance. The flowers are small, greenish-white, and borne in clusters.

 

10. Aucuba japonica

Aucuba japonica is a shrub that grows in the shade. It is a member of the Aucuba genus and is native to Japan. The shrub has glossy, green leaves and can grow to a height of 3 meters. It is often used as an ornamental plant in gardens.

The Japanese aucuba is an evergreen shrub that can reach a height of up to 6 feet and a width of up to 10 feet. It has large, glossy green leaves and small, yellow-gold flowers that bloom in the spring. The Japanese aucuba is a popular landscaping plant and is often used as a foundation shrub or as a hedge.

11. Fatsia

Fatsia shrubs are a popular choice for gardens that receive little sunlight. The large leaves of the Fatsia are ideal for creating a shady oasis in your yard, and the variety of colors available can add interest to any garden.

Fatsia shrubs are easy to care for, and they make a great addition to any landscape. They are known for their large, glossy leaves, which can provide welcome relief from the harsh sun. These plants are native to Asia and can be found in many different climates, from tropical to temperate.

In general, they prefer moist soils and can tolerate some drought. However, they will not tolerate waterlogged soils. They do not require a lot of pruning but can be trimmed if necessary to control their size.

These plants are also relatively tolerant of pests and diseases. However, they can be susceptible to fungal diseases if the conditions are too wet.

12. Periwinkle

Periwinkle shrubs are a type of plant that grows best in shady areas. These plants are known for their pretty blue flowers and their ability to thrive in areas that other plants may not be able to grow in.

Periwinkle shrubs are a popular choice for gardeners who are looking to add some color and life to their shaded areas. These plants are relatively easy to care for and can provide a beautiful addition to any garden. Periwinkle plants are known for their pretty blue flowers and their ability to thrive in areas with low light levels.

13. Spurge

Spurge shrubs are a type of plant that typically grows in shady areas. They are known for their thick, woody stems and their large, glossy leaves. These plants are typically found in wooded areas or in areas with high levels of tree cover.

Spurge shrubs are a popular choice for landscaping because of their ability to thrive in shady conditions. They are known for their ability to thrive in areas with little sunlight.

This makes them a popular choice for gardeners looking to add some greenery to their shade gardens. Spurges are easy to care for and require little maintenance.

14. Cypress

Cypress shrubs are a species of plant that is known to grow best in shady areas. These plants are typically found in wooded areas or near bodies of water, as they require moist soil to thrive.

Cypress shrubs are evergreen, meaning they will keep their leaves year-round. This is beneficial for areas that experience a lot of rainfall, as the shrubs will help prevent soil erosion.

Cypress shrub’s ability to grow in shaded areas makes them ideal for many landscaping projects. When planning a garden or lawn, it is important to consider the amount of sunlight that the area receives. Cypress shrubs can thrive in areas that do not receive a lot of direct sunlight, which makes them versatile plants.

15. Yews

Yews (Taxus spp.) are shrubs that typically grow in shady areas. They are known for their evergreen leaves and conical shape. Yews are popular ornamental plants, and many cultivars are available.

They are usually found in wooded areas and prefer shady conditions. Yews are evergreen and can reach a height of 20 feet. They have dark green, needle-like leaves and small, red berries. The yew is a member of the Taxaceae family and is related to the coniferous tree.

Shrubs That Grow In Shade FAQ

What is the best bush to plant in shade?

The best bush to plant in shade depends on the type of conditions found in the area. For example, in partial shade, shrubs such as Hydrangea, Pieris, Rhododendron, and Viburnum do well. For full shade, the ideal choice is Skimmia japonica which is evergreen and requires minimal maintenance. Other good options for full shade include Forsythia, Euonymus, and bamboo.

In addition to considering the amount of shade present in the area, it’s important to consider the climate and soil type. Different varieties of shrubs require different amounts of water and certain types of soil to flourish. For example, Azaleas thrive in acidic soil and prefer moist conditions. The Spirea plant does best in alkaline soil and needs a well-drained ground.

When planting a bush in shade, it’s important to choose an appropriate species for the area. With the proper care and conditions, these plants can add beautiful color and texture to any shady spot in your garden.

What Evergreen is best for shade?

The best trees for providing shade are deciduous trees such as oak, maple, hickory, ash, and elm. Conifers (evergreens) also provide some shade, but since they keep their foliage year-round they tend to block more of the winter sun. Examples of evergreens that can provide some shade are pine, spruce, juniper, and cypress.

What shrub grows fast in shade?

Japanese Barberry (Berberis thunbergii) is a fast-growing shrub that can tolerate shade.

What grows well in a lot of shade?

A variety of plants will thrive in a lot of shade, including many flowers, vegetables, and herbs. Shade-loving annuals such as impatiens, coleus, and begonias are popular choices and provide a splash of color to dark corners.

Perennials like hostas, mums, and ferns also do well and come back year after year. Vegetables such as lettuce and spinach will grow with little sun, and herbs such as parsley and mint are among the best for shady spots. Finally, fruit trees like pears, apples and cherries can do well in partial shade.

Will hydrangeas grow in full shade?

Yes, in fact, many varieties of hydrangeas will thrive in full shade. However, most will produce more blooms if they receive some sun each day.

Will camellias grow in full shade?

No, camellias need some direct sunlight to bloom. They will tolerate partial shade and perform best in dappled, filtered sunlight.

Conclusion:

So there you have it, a list of the best shrubs that grow in shade. Although it may seem like a daunting task to find plants that will thrive in low light, there are actually a number of options to choose from. With a little research, you can find the perfect shrub for your garden.

Partial to full shade, these shrubs are perfect for those problem areas in your landscape where grass just won’t grow. With a little planning and the right selection, you can achieve a beautiful, carefree landscape that will thrive for years to come.

If you’re looking for a shrub that can provide privacy, filter out noise, or simply add some greenery to your landscape, consider one of these options. With a little research, you’re sure to find the perfect fit for your needs.