Shade Plants

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Shade Plants

Many gardeners have difficulty growing plants in moist, shady spots. Don visited Bronte House in Sydney, and looked at a group of plants that have been used very effectively in a semi-shaded part of the garden (see list below). They include some indoor plants, which can be grown outside as long as they have protection from cold and frost.

Aluminium plant (Pilea cadierei)

This popular house plant has bluish-green leaves striped with bands of silver. In summer it produces masses of small cream flowers at the stem tips. Aluminium plants are frost tender.

Ctenanthe sp.

Beautifully marked foliage plants that are often grown indoors. They have oblong shaped leaves on tall, hairy stems. C. lubbersiana has variegated leaves, while C. oppenheimiana has green and silver banded leaves with a purple reverse. They can be grown outdoors in frost-free climates, with protection from drying winds.

Elephant’s ears (Colocasia esculenta)

Commonly known as taro or elephant’s ears, these evergreen perennials have arrow or heart shaped leaves on tall stalks. Some species are grown as ornamentals, while others are cultivated for their edible tubers. They spread by means of underground runners. Grow them in a sheltered position in a frost-free climate.

Shell ginger (Alpinia zerumbet)

This tall growing, evergreen plant is a good choice for the back of the shade garden. It forms a clump about 3m (10′) high. It has broad, green leaves and yellow and white perfumed flowers. Alpinias tolerate cold winter temperatures but need warmth and humidity in summer.

Strobilanthes dyerianus

An evergreen shrub with soft stems and toothed, green and purple leaves. Strobilanthes are frost tender and will drop leaves if it gets too cold.

Syngonium podophyllum

This climbing plant is related to philodendrons. The leaves are arrow-shaped when young, then develop 7-9 lobes as they mature. Some varieties have leaves with cream or pink variegations. Grow syngoniums in a sheltered position with protection from direct sun.

Getting started

The plants featured in our segment may not be the best choice for your climate or particular situation. However, if you look in the shadehouse at your local nursery you’ll find a range of shade-loving plants on display that will grow in your area. Choose taller plants for the back of the garden, and be sure to include some plants with coloured or variegated foliage.

Bronte House

Bronte House in Bronte Road, Bronte in Sydney is open to the public during a series of open days on September 30, October 21 and November 24, 25, 2001. Groups of 25 or more can arrange for a group tour. Phone: (02) 9387 1717.