Deb’s Guide to Shade-Loving Plants: What to Use in Your Shady Spot

Got a corner of your garden that refuses to see the sun? Don’t worry—it doesn’t have to stay bare! Shaded gardens can be just as vibrant and beautiful as their sun-drenched counterparts with the right plants in place. From ground covers to lush, leafy shrubs, we’ve got you covered (literally). 

Here are our top recommendations for shade-loving plants and some handy tips to transform those gloomy spots into thriving garden havens.

Meet Your Shade-Loving Heroes

These plants don’t just survive in shaded areas—they thrive.

🌸 Native Violet

An Aussie favourite! Native Violet creates a dreamy, dense carpet of petite purple-and-white flowers. Perfect for filling in gaps under trees or along pathways. Bonus? It’s low-maintenance and totally charming.

🌿 Pratia

Small, delicate, and oh-so-stunning, Pratia is another star ground cover for shaded areas. Its tiny flowers add a subtle pop of colour, while its creeping nature makes it excellent for softening hardscapes like patios or paving stones.

🌱 Dichondra Tiny

This babe is new to the market and we’re one of the first to have it in stock! 🎉 This resilient ground cover features small, rounded leaves that form a lush green blanket, thriving even in those tricky, deeply shaded areas. Perfect for those sun-shy spots in your garden. Don’t miss out on getting your hands on this shade-loving beauty!

💜 Ajuga

Looking for a splash of colour and texture in your shaded space? Ajuga is here to deliver. With its striking deep purple leaves and vibrant blue flower spikes, it’s a show-stopper that adds drama to any shaded garden bed.

🌺 Clivea

Clivea is shade gardening royalty. Their strappy leaves create lush clumps, while their bright orange blooms are like little bursts of sunshine peeking out from the shade. They’re hardy, drought-tolerant, and ideal for filling spaces beneath trees.

The Full Shade Plant Box 🌿✨

Not sure where to start? Check out our Full Shade Plant Box. It’s packed with a hand-picked selection of shade-loving champions that will transform your garden (even the darkest corners). Easy-to-plant, minimal upkeep, and lush results—this is the ultimate solution for your shaded spots.

Image above and below: Julian Bombardiere's Self-Designed Garden, Captured by Bridgid Arnott

Tips for Thriving Shade Gardens

Even shade-loving plants need the right TLC! Here are a few pointers to keep them happy and healthy in their (partial) sunless sanctuary:

• Know your shade: Is it full shade all day or just partial? This will help you pick the right plants for the space.
• Create healthy soil: Shaded areas often struggle with dry, compacted soil. Add organic matter to keep it rich and well-drained.
• Water carefully: Even though it’s shaded, these plants still need their sips! Don’t overdo it, though—too much water will lead to soggy roots.
• Layer up: Combine ground covers, foliage plants, and flowering varieties to add varied textures and heights to your shady space.