Hostas are celebrated for their attractive foliage in a variety of colors, patterns, shapes, and sizes. They thrive in rich, well-amended soil with regular water, and many varieties tolerate deep shade and challenging sites.
Coral bells offer a wide range of foliage colors and patterns, from lemon yellow to nearly black. They bloom in late spring/early summer and thrive in various light and soil conditions.
Ferns, ancient and reliable, are ideal for woodland or shade gardens. They add texture and form with their attractive fronds and adapt to various conditions. Some, like the Western sword fern, are drought-tolerant after establishment, perfect for dry shade areas.
Caladiums, with their bold, arrow-shaped leaves in vibrant colors, bring an exotic touch to gardens. They thrive in heat and are best grown in containers or as bedding plants.
Coleus is a popular summer annual known for its diverse foliage patterns and colors. It prefers rich, well-draining soil and regular water. Use coleus in containers, as bedding plants.
Japanese forest grass, a shade-loving ornamental, forms low, mounding clumps. Its golden or variegated foliage brightens dark areas. This versatile grass is perfect for groundcovers.
Deadnettle is a reliable groundcover with attractive foliage and spring flowers in pink, white, or lavender. It thrives in partial to full shade and well-amended soil, quickly filling difficult sites like under trees.
Foamflower is a native woodland plant with frothy flowers and heart-shaped leaves. It tolerates deep shade but performs best in dappled light. Ideal for containers, rock gardens, or as groundcover.