Annual Flowers That Thrive in Shade

Impatiens

• Impatiens are a popular garden flower all across the United States. The plants are easy to grow, low-maintenance, colorful and thrive in shady areas. They don't tolerate cool temperatures, and will die at first frost. Ideal temperature range is between 60 degrees and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. The height of the plant is determined by the location, soil condition and plant variety, but will average 8 to 12 inches. Generally, the foliage is medium green, tapered and smooth, with toothed edges, but some varieties have variegated leaves. Bloom time begins in spring and continues til frost. Flowers bloom at the top of stems, and have white, red, pink, maroon, orange, mauve or purple petals. Some varieties have contrasting center colors. These plants grow as annuals only in zones 3 through 8.

Tuberous Begonias

• Tuberous begonias come in an array of forms and colors. Single or double blooms in shades of pink, white, yellow, orange, salmon and bi-color may have smooth or ruffled edges, and resemble rosebud or camellia flowers. Many showy plants with long bloom time don't do well in shady areas, but tuberous begonias thrive in such places. They are often used as bedding plants, and also do well in containers and hanging baskets. Plant in fertile soil that drains well and water when soil begins to dry out. Over-watering will cause rot, and it's wise to water them in the morning so the foliage has time to dry. Deadheading will give a polished appearance and encourage new blooms. Tuberous begonias are hardy in USDA zones 8, 9 and 10.

Wishbone Flower

• Wishbone flowers are also known as torenia and are good multi-taskers in the landscape. Plant them in small spaces with partial shade to perk up a sleepy yard. They work well as border plants, in window boxes or as part of a container garden. The plants reach a height of about 12 inches, are heat tolerant and can tolerate short dry periods. The bi-color flowers can be found in a variety of colors, including lilac, violet, pink, yellow and blue. They resemble pansies and are about 1 inch wide. Plant torenia in fertile soil that drains well, and add a thick layer of mulch to retain moisture. The plants have few pests, but will occasionally attract aphids or spider mites. Rinse them off using a firm spray when watering. Deadhead torenia to keep a well-groomed appearance. In USDA zones 3 through 8, it is grown as an annual.

Lobelia

• Lobelia is a trailing, flowering annual vine that grows in clumps measuring 6 inches in height and 12 to 16 inches wide. Also called edging lobelia, the foliage consists of slender vines with narrow leaves about an inch long, adorned with clusters of blossoms measuring one half inch to almost a full inch. The flowers have 3 larger lower petals and 2 smaller upper petals, and are violet, dark blue, light blue, rose or white in color. These plants do best when started in cooler temperatures, but can't tolerate frost. Lobelia is not drought tolerant, but shouldn't be over-watered. Plant in well-draining, organic soil. The flowers are grown as annuals in zones 1 to 10.