Alphabetical Plant Listing

Great Shrubs for Shady Gardens in the Mid-Atlantic Region

Regional Gardening, Best Shrubs, Mid-Atlantic Gardening


Shade gardens can appear like a planting challenge for some gardeners. They might not be aware of the wide variety of gorgeous shade-loving plants that will thrive in filtered light or deep shade.

How to define shade? Generally speaking, a full shade garden receives less than 2 hours of light per day. A part shade garden receives between 2 and 6 hours of sunlight and is shaded for the rest of the day.

Below is the list of shrub species and cultivars that are shade tolerant and will add beautiful color in the shady corners of your Mid-Atlantic garden. As you will note, some are top performers and have received prestigious awards.

When choosing plants, remember to pay attention to their foliage in order to create combinations of long-lasting appeal. While most shrubs produce flowers, paying particular attention to their foliage will ensure a planting that is attractive all season. 

Guide Information

Hardiness 5 - 7
Heat Zones 3 - 6
Plant Type Shrubs
Exposure Partial Sun, Shade
Season of Interest Spring (Early,Mid,Late)
Summer (Early,Mid,Late)
Fall
Winter
Landscaping Ideas Beds and Borders
Mid-Atlantic Plant Combination Ideas Mid-Atlantic Guides

seaonweb / 123RF Stock Photo

While every effort has been made to describe these plants accurately, please keep in mind that height, bloom time, and color may differ in various climates. The description of these plants has been written based on numerous outside resources.

Guide Information

Hardiness 5 - 7
Heat Zones 3 - 6
Plant Type Shrubs
Exposure Partial Sun, Shade
Season of Interest Spring (Early,Mid,Late)
Summer (Early,Mid,Late)
Fall
Winter
Landscaping Ideas Beds and Borders
Mid-Atlantic Plant Combination Ideas Mid-Atlantic Guides

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