Foliage-driven Plant Combination for Shade

These seven plants were selected to create a foliage-based garden that will look good year-round. Five of the seven plants have evergreen foliage, in shades of green to yellow. They are embellished by seasonal contributions that include colorful emerging foliage (Epimedium), springtime flowers (Epimedium and Fothergilla), and fall-color (Fothergilla). The hosta foliage adds light to the scene with its large, variegated leaves that are present from spring to fall. It makes a nice partner for the other ground covers; Acorus g. 'Ogon' and the Epimedium. The largest plant that anchors the vignette is the hardy schefflera. The other plants are compact and/or slow-growing. As a result, this is an excellent plant combination for a small garden, courtyard, or for adding curb appeal to a front yard garden.


Growing Conditions

Zone: 7, 8
Exposure: Part Sun, Filtered Sun, Open Shade, Morning Sun, Part Shade
Water Needs: Average, Regular / Even

Design Considerations

Style: City and Courtyard, Naturalistic, Woodland, Northwest Eclectic
Features: Fabulous Foliage, Four Season Appeal, Low Maintenance, Varied Foliage, Texture, and Form, Winter Interest
Focus: Curb Appeal, Efficient Use of Space, Mixed Border, Small Space, Year-round Interest
Seasons of Interest: Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall, Pleasing Seasonal Changes, Year-round Interest, Three Seasons of Interest

Care and Maintenance


Maintenance Level: low
Maintenance Tasks: Once-a-Year Care, Divide Plants to Rejuvenate



Plants In this Combo