Southern Living/ Evgeniya Vlasova
While many shrubs thrive in the embrace of the sun, finding those that excel in shadier environments can present a challenge. Plant labels and their descriptions might mention “full shade” or “partial shade,” but what does this actually entail in terms of light exposure? According to Stacey Hirvela, a horticulturist with Proven Winners ColorChoice Shrubs, “In essence, partial shade or partial sun refers to around 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight daily, or light that is filtered throughout the day, like under a tall, open tree canopy.” On the other hand, “full shade” is defined as receiving less than four hours of daily sunlight.
In regions prone to high temperatures, the intensity of sunlight is also a critical factor. If a location is designated as part sun/part shade but the sun’s rays are at their strongest during the hottest part of the day (around noon to 4 P.M.), it’s advisable to treat it as a full sun spot when selecting plants and providing care, Hirvela advises.
It’s also important to note that most shrubs require some sunlight to perform at their best. For those species that flourish in full shade, anticipate a less dense, more open and airy structure. Should they bloom, there will likely be fewer flowers, adds Hirvela.
Should you be uncertain about the amount of sun or shade a particular area receives, observe the spot for a few days and reflect on how you would feel sitting there. On a hot, sunny summer day, how long can you comfortably stay in that spot? “A full shade area will be comfortable throughout the day, whereas a part sun/part shade area will be comfortable for at least half the day, ideally during the peak heat,” explains Hirvela.
- Botanical name: Rhododendron spp
- Sun exposure: Partial shade
- Soil type: Slightly acidic, well-drained; does not tolerate heavy clay
Azaleas are the beloved flowers of the Southern landscape, and for good reason. Their heat tolerance and vibrant, bright colors, ranging from pristine white to salmon, pale yellow, and fiery pink, are truly captivating. Newer varieties that rebloom in spring and fall have further enhanced their allure.
Varieties for the South: Perfecto Mundo Reblooming series (including Orange, Double White, Red, Double Dark Pink)
- Botanical name: Clethra alnifolia
- Sun exposure: Partial shade
- Soil type: Slightly acidic, average to wet
This deciduous native plant is perfectly adapted to shaded gardens. Its stunning, upright panicles of fragrant flowers appear in mid to late summer, drawing pollinators like butterflies.
Varieties for the South: Vanilla Spice
- Botanical name: Itea virginica
- Sun exposure: Partial to full shade
- Soil type: Average, well-drained, moist
Also known as itea, this native species is adorned with fragrant flower spikes in summer. Pollinators are particularly fond of it. In full shade, this deciduous shrub tends to produce fewer flowers.
Varieties for the South: Fizzy Mizzy
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- Botanical name: Fothergilla spp
- Sun exposure: Partial shade
- Soil type: Acidic, moist
This distinguished deciduous shrub boasts fragrant white bottlebrush-like spring flowers and colorful fall foliage. Some types can grow up to 6 to 10 feet tall, but there are also dwarf varieties that top out at 2 to 3 feet, making them suitable for smaller gardens.
Varieties for the South: Legend of the Small
- Botanical name: Sarcococca hookeriana
- Sun exposure: Partial to full shade
- Soil type: All types, well-draining
Sweet box is a broadleaf evergreen with delicate, thread-like blooms in late winter to early spring that draw pollinators. Typically used as a tall groundcover or planted at the front of borders, it is also deer-resistant.
Varieties for the South: Sweet & Lo
Southern Living/Adrienne Legault
- Botanical name: Viburnum spp
- Sun exposure: Full sun to partial shade
- Soil type: All types, moist, well-draining
With a variety of species, some of which can tolerate partial shade, viburnum offers a range of sizes from 2 to 15 feet tall and is an excellent choice for low-maintenance shrubs. Always check the plant tag to ensure the variety you’re considering can handle shade.
Varieties for the South: Moonlit Lace, Red Balloon
- Botanical name: Hydrangea quercifolia
- Sun exposure: Partial shade
- Soil type: Slightly acidic, well-drained
These native hydrangeas are a stunning addition to gardens with their large leaves and dramatic flowers. They are the only hydrangea type to offer autumn foliage color.
Varieties for the South: Li’l Annie Oakleaf, Autumn Reprise Oakleaf
Southern Living/Vlasova Evgeniya
- Botanical name: Mahonia spp
- Sun exposure: Partial to full shade
- Soil type: All types, moist, well-draining
Mahonia is a less recognized shrub that deserves a place in your shade garden for its evergreen foliage and cheerful yellow flowers in late winter to early spring. New hybrid varieties offer even more colorful foliage and flowers.
Varieties for the South: Groovy Glow, Funky Flow
- Botanical name: Buxus spp
- Sun exposure: Full sun to full shade
- Soil type: All types, especially sandy and well-drained
Boxwoods are a favorite deer-resistant shrub for many landscapes. They can tolerate full shade, but be aware that their color will be a muted green instead of bright green. They will also appear more open and sparse.
Varieties for the South: Sprinter, Wintergreen
