Perennial Plants for Shady Dry Areas

Bulbs

• A number of bulbs, both spring and summer, can tolerate dry shady conditions. Check packaging when purchasing bulbs to be sure that the shade conditions are right for your needs -- part shade, dappled sun (such as the shade you find under deciduous trees,) shade or deep shade. Some possible choices could include anemone, some varieties of crocus, "Jenny" and "Thalia" narcissus, Galanthus and spring snowflakes, to name a few.

Native Plants

• Native plants, often referred to as "wildflowers," are the best choices for those areas in your landscaping that could use a natural look, such as banks and other slopes and under tree lines. Some popular native plants used for naturalizing include bloodroot, Virginia bluebells, Dutchman's breeches, white wood aster and trillium. Again, visit your local cooperative extension office or full-service garden center with questions about the plants that are best suited for your growing zone. Some natives are welcome in some parts of North America while considered a noxious weed in other climates. Be sure that your particular choice of natives is welcome in your region. Native perennial wildflowers are always a smart choice because they generally take less water and need less soil amending to grow. Plus, most of them offer a food source for birds, insects and other wildlife.

Other Perennials

• While most shade perennials prefer a moist soil, a number of flowering and foliage plants adapt well to dry conditions. Some other favorites that might work well in your landscape could include Ajuga, great bellfower, wild ginger, wood anemone, hardy begonia, Siberian forget-me-not, Barrenwort and ferns such as Christmas fern, lacy fancy fern, Korean rock fern, beaded wood fern and a number of others. Remember to water new plants regularly until established for best results.