How can I add color without flowers in shade?
Written by
Michael Sullivan
Reviewed by
Prof. Samuel Fitzgerald, Ph.D.Adding bright color without flowers in the shade can be achieved by planting the leaves of imported Caladiums, which feature beautifully blotched pink and green foliage, and the round, purple leaves of Heuchera, which provide color throughout the year.
Foliage plants are more suitable than flowers in shady areas. Their special pigments, such as anthocyanins, give them rich purples and reds which no test of shade can drive away from them. They need large surfaces of leaves to catch every stray ray with added effect, so they produce them. In this way, we have constant sources of colour in the shade.
Caladium
- Heart shaped leaves with pink, red, and green patterns
- Thrives in deep shade with indirect light conditions
- Grows from tubers reaching 12-24 inches in height
Heuchera
- Rosy purple foliage maintains color year round
- Deer resistant due to fuzzy textured leaves
- Perennial in zones 4-9 requiring minimal care
Coleus
- Lime to burgundy patterned leaves in sun or shade
- Pinch back to encourage bushier growth habit
- Annual except in warm zones 10-11
Polka Dot Plant
- Pink or white speckled leaves add playful texture
- Compact 12-18 inch height perfect for containers
- Prefers consistent moisture and humidity levels
Design techniques maximize the impact of foliage. Consider color contrast, placing a light Heuchera next to a dark Hosta. Or texture variety: a lacey Fern next to a large-leafed Caladium. Use silver foliaged plants like Brunnera as natural reflectors to pick up light in corners as effectively as possible.
This seasonal treatment will keep the foliage bright. Pinch back Coleus as it begins to flower, if you want the leaf colour to continue. Split the Heuchera every third year, and the presentation will be maintained. Before frost, bring in the Caladium in the colder zones.
Combine layering foliage plants to create a multidimensional effect. Underplant Heuchera with Ajuga for pops of color at ground level. Add the Japanese Painted Fern for vertical art. Dimensional beauty that changes as the sun moves through the sky in your shade garden.
Read the full article: 10 Best Flowers for Shade Gardens
