What are the best low-growing shrubs and flowers to plant for a shady area near evergreen trees?

Question

Southern Michigan

Answer 1

Instead of trying to find plants that can thrive within root systems of cedars spruce and other evergreens, try using raised flower beds. This allows you to plant a nice variety of shade loving plants. Because most evergreens have a sprawling root systems that grow near the ground surface, adding additional soil to area you want to plant will probably be a necessity. Hostas, ferns, camellias, rhododendrons and azaleas will do well for shrubs and greenery. Daffodils and crocus actually do well in shady areas for early spring color. Impatiens, begonias, and hydrangeas can be used for summer colour. Rhododendrons and azaleas seem to exist quite well amongst evergreens even without the raised flower beds and can be pruned to maintain a low profile.

Answer 2

There are hundreds of different plants and shade loving shrubs. It is actually up to you area and what you want, annuals or perennials. I have alot of shade plants that come back every year and bloom all summer. Hostas are probably the easiest and sturdiest to grow. Astibles are also hardy. Look up your area and what grows in your area in shade on the web. There are several sites that will help you plan a shade garden and tell you what will grow best for your region. Look under shade plants. Good Luck and happy gardening.

Answer 3

Small azaleas would do well- they like the acidic soil, but they will need watering if the trees prevent rain from reaching them. The low light may keep them from blooming at their best, but I've had good luck with them in shady areas.
Another plant that does well is Candy-tuft...a woody/hardy shrub-like plant.

Answer 4

Here are the ones which come to mind: aspidistra (long leaved plant),giant or regular lirope (blooms purple) and is evergreen, dwarf azaelas, (bloom usually a shade of pink to red),dwarf ruellia which is very short and spreads like crazy blooming in white, pink and purple...called "Katie", impatiens are fun to put in the summer along with pentas...always bedding begonias as far as annuals go...good luck..
an ole' granny of a gardener

Answer 5

Sorry, we need more info...where do you live [your plant zone] ?
water availability?
In general, Azaelas, ferns and dwarf holly will tolerate shade and high acidity. for flowers... yarrow, hucheras, goats beard, columbines, astibles

Answer 6

Ferns are the only thing I can think of that will handle the acid of the pine trees.

Answer 7

I like Japanese andromeda for one (pieris). Lovely things in my opinion.