Summer is here, and the heat can be intense! If you’re looking for ways to keep cool in your outdoor space, consider adding some plants for summer shade. From trees to shrubs, there are plenty of options to choose from.
Here are 10 plants that will provide the perfect amount of shade and help keep you cool all summer long. From fast-growing trees to low-maintenance shrubs, these plants will provide the perfect amount of shade for your outdoor area.
Discover which plants are best suited for your climate and how to care for them to keep them healthy and thriving.
Benefits of planting shade-loving plants
Most of us want to make the most of our outdoor living space, but the heat of Summer can make having a garden quite a challenge. Fortunately, there are plenty of shade-loving plants that can add beauty and interest to your garden.
From ferns to ivy, many of these plants thrive in partial shade and can transform your garden into a lush, green paradise – even during the hottest months of the year. When choosing plants for your garden that will tolerate shade, it’s important to think about the type of shade you have. Is it light or deep shade?
Different types of plants have different preferences and will require more or less sunlight depending on their species. Choosing the right plants can greatly improve the success of your garden in the shade.
So, which shade-loving plants should you look to fill your garden with? Here are 10 fantastic plants to keep your garden looking great during the summer months: Ferns- Ferns are a great choice for shady gardens.
They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, so you can easily find one to suit your garden. Hostas- Hostas are an ideal choice when it comes to shade-loving plants.
They come in a range of colours, including green and blue, and can survive in deep shade.
Astilbes- Astilbes are flowering plants that thrive in partial shade. They add a pop of colour to dull areas and will flower from June to September. Lily of the Valley- This popular shade-loving plant has a delicate scent and thrives in dappled shade. Its white, bell-shaped flowers can add a welcome touch of beauty to your garden. Hardy Geraniums- These flowering plants can tolerate deep shade and make a great choice for gardens with minimal sunlight. Aconites- These are one of the few plants that can survive in deep shade. Their delicate yellow-green flowers will brighten up any shady garden corner. Impatiens- While most impatiens require full sunlight, there are some varieties that can thrive in partial shade. These are great for brightening up a dull corner of the garden. Liriope- Liriope is an evergreen grass-like plant that is perfect for shady areas. It can tolerate deep shade and requires minimal care. Sweet Woodruff- This enchanting plant has a gentle scent that will waft through the garden on warm summer days. It tolerates deep shade and grows best in partially shaded areas. Ivy- Ivy is one of the hardiest shade-loving plants and can survive even in the darkest of patches. It is also very decorative and will add texture to your garden. These shade-loving plants are ideal for creating an attractive, lush garden – even when the summer heat takes its toll. With a few strategic additions such as these, you’re sure to have a garden that looks great all year round.
Types of shade-loving plants
Shade-loving plants often get overlooked in garden design, yet they can provide beautiful and interesting foliage in the hot summer months. As an expert gardener, I’m here to share my top 10 plants for adding color and texture to a summer shade garden.
From majestic magnolias to feathery ferns and dramatic dark leaves, these plants will provide an oasis of interest and color in any shade garden. Magnolias bring a grandeur to a garden with their large and fragrant blossoms, and require little maintenance; ferns can create a carpet of feathery leaves, adding texture to the garden without any fuss. Hostas – also known as plantain lilies – are available in a range of colors and are one of the most popular shade plants; their dramatic leaves can be displayed alone or combined with other plants to create interesting combinations.
For bright and cheerful pops of color, begonias are an ideal choice. With their vibrant leaves and small but fragrant blossoms, these plants can be tucked between other shade tolerant plants to create an eye-catching display all summer long.
Heucheras, often know as coral bells, have beautiful and sharply defined leaves in vibrant shades of green and purple which will bring a unique touch to any garden. If you’re looking for something tropical, caladiums come in a range of shapes and sizes, from dwarf varieties to large elephant ears, and love the heat and humid conditions found in summer shade. Finally, cyrtomiums, impatiens, and coleus are also ideal for a summer shade garden; the last two can add a mix of color, texture, and interest to any garden.
With these 10 plants, you can create a unique and beautiful shade garden in no time.
Tips for planting shade-loving plants
If you’re looking for summer shade in the garden, then planting shade-loving plants is one of the best ways to get it. While some plants, such as roses, thrive in direct sunlight, there are plenty of other plants that require protection from the heat to reach their full potential.
To help you find the perfect shady spot in your garden and make the most of your shady spaces, here are 10 plants that thrive in the shade during the summer months. One of the most popular plants for summer shade is hostas. Not only are they beautiful, but they’re also tough and resilient.
The broad, thick leaves can survive temperatures as low as 37 degrees and are tolerant of humidity, making them ideal for any garden. The leaves come in a range of sizes, from small to large, and hostas come in a variety of colors and patterns, too. If you want a burst of color in your shady areas, you might want to try impatiens.
This summer flower loves shade and comes in a rainbow of colours. They also require very little maintenance and are relatively easy to care for.
Impatiens are ideal for bringing a bit of colour to window boxes and planters and look particularly lovely when planted in a mixture of different shades. One of the best shade-loving plants for summer is ferns. Not only do they look great when given plenty of shade, they are also very low maintenance.
Ferns come in a variety of shapes and sizes, so you’re sure to find one that fits your garden perfectly. The lush foliage also helps to soften hard edges, like garden walls and fences, for a more natural look.
If you’re looking to create a tropical feel in your outdoor space, then you should consider planting elephant ears. These are large-leaved plants with bright, bold foliage and come in a range of colors from dark green to variegated yellow and red. They add a touch of drama to any garden and require only a few hours of direct sunlight each day. Finally, astilbes are popular summer shade plants. These look lovely when planted in clumps and bloom throughout the summer. With their delicate foliage and feather-like textures, astilbes can add a calming atmosphere to any outdoor space. These are just a few of the many plants that can add summer shade to your garden. So if you’re looking to make the most of your outdoor spaces this summer, why not give some of these plants a try?
Maintenance of shade-loving plants
As a UK garden expert, I understand the challenge of selecting the right plants to make your garden look lush, even in the area of shade. When the summer comes, you need plants that offer three key things – beauty, vitality, and shade.
With this in mind, I have identified 10 plants that will provide beautiful shades even in summer shade. Wisteria, Sweet Box, Hosta, Hellebore, Acanthus mollis, Fuchsia, Geranium, Enkianthus perulatus, Rhododendron, and Winter Jasmine all offer beautiful shades that will bring freshness and color to your garden. With their prolific and fragrant flowers, these plants will create a splendid bright environment and make your summer shade even more lively.
Moreover, these plants will benefit the environment by providing habitats for many birds, bees, and butterflies. You can enjoy these wonderful visitors from the comfort of your shady patio or lawn this season. In addition, these plants will help you to conserve water, expending little to no water each season and adding a sense of sustainability to your garden.
Not only are they easy to maintain and care for, but they are also built to last. With minimal effort, you can have a beautiful and relaxing place to spend summers in the shade.
So next time when you look for plants for summer shade, consider this top 10 list of garden expert recommended plants and get that perfect summer ambiance.
10 plants for summer shade
With the hot summer days upon us, it’s important to plan for adequate shade for your garden. Whether you’re looking to provide a splash of color or a more serene atmosphere to your outdoor experience, there are a range of different plants that can provide suitable shade in the warmer months.
As a UK garden expert, I’ve compiled a list of 10 of the best plants to assist in providing summer shade. The first of my choices is the common shrub Filipendula ulmaria, also known as meadowsweet. This bushy shrub is ideal for a shady spot in your garden, with its sweetly scented pink-hued flowers that bloom in early summer and remain until autumn.
It is relatively low maintenance and attracts a range of beneficial insects, such as bees, to your garden. Another great option for providing summer shade is the Clematis armandii, a deciduous climber that is ideal for partially shaded or unchanging locations. This stunning plant’s evergreen foliage and large clusters of sweetly scented white flowers are sure to add year-round beauty to its surroundings.
The classic ivy offers yet another good option for summer shade, with its attractive and evergreen foliage. Its hardiness makes it easy to care for and ideal for providing some depth and texture to a shady corner.
The Hedera helix is one of the most versatile and widely cultivated varieties of ivy, with its attractive glossy, deep-green leaves that remain throughout the winter months. The summer-flowering hardy perennial perennial Heuchera is another great option to consider, with its pretty and long lasting blooms.
The Heuchera villosa has delicate, bell-shaped pink flowers that adorn the arching stems of this attractive shade-loving perennial. For areas of full shade, the aptly named Hosta plantaginea is a great choice. This attractive plant produces white flowers starting in mid to late summer and its broad, textured foliage remains decorative even when plants are not in flower.
Shrubby Ligularia dentata is a wonderful addition for those looking for height in their garden. This tall and long-flowering perennial is known for its dazzling display of yellow flowers during the summer months and its eye-catching, dark purple foliage. The versatile perennial Geranium sanguineum is also an excellent option for providing summer shade. This plant is easy to grow and maintain, and its dark green foliage and bright pink flowers throughout the summer months make it a great addition to any garden. Another delightful perennial to consider if you’re looking for summer shade is the foxglove, Digitalis purpurea. This tall and dramatic plant provides stunning, bell-shaped purple and white flowers on its tall spires throughout the summer months. Asarum europaeum, commonly known as wild ginger, is an ideal option for shady areas. This small, low-growing groundcover offers broad, dark green foliage and unusual, silver-striped burgundy flowers that appear in spring and early summer. Finally, the hardy perennial Ajuga reptans, also known as bugleweed, is a great option for providing summer shade. As a bonus, its attractive and evergreen foliage is augmented by its showy blue, pink and purple flowers. These 10 plants offer a wealth of versatile and attractive options for providing summer shade. With a bit of careful planning and selection, you can create the perfect shady oasis in your garden!
Alternatives to shade-loving plants
As a UK garden expert, I’m often asked about the best plants to fill a shaded patch in the summer months. While some may immediately think of ferns and other shade-loving plants, there are many alternatives that can bring splashes of colour and texture to the darkest corners of your garden. Here are 10 of the best plants for summer shade.
First on the list is Japanese anemones. These delicate flowers bloom in a riot of white, pink, and purple in late summer and early autumn, bringing instant cheer to shady spots.
Japanese anemones often grow tall, so plant them in sunny spots to benefit from the low-level light and enjoy their bright, daisy-like blooms. If you’re looking for something that’s sure to fill the ground, consider planting fuchsias. With their cascading frilled blossoms and hardy roots, these plants can be grown in part shade and will flower right through until the first frost.
For extra impact, choose varieties with double or semi-double flowers and group together for an especially dramatic display. Hostas are a classic choice for adding texture and structure to shaded patches, but you don’t need to restrict yourself to the usual green and white variegated types.
From bright blues to golden yellows, there are around 90 species of hostas to choose from, ensuring you find the perfect fit for your garden. Plant in clumps and enjoy their lush scalloped foliage all season long.
Finally, one of the best plants for a shaded corner is a Hydrangea. Commonly known as lacecap hydrangeas, these shrubs come in a dazzling range of colours and shapes, making them a great addition to any shady space. For something a little different, try a climbing hydrangea, which are superb for covering walls, trellises, and even trees.
These are just a few of the plants suitable for summer shade. From begonias to foxgloves, there are plenty of options to help brighten up your garden and make the most of the shade. With a little thought and planning, even the darkest spots can be transformed into beautiful and colourful outdoor areas.
Faqs about shade-loving plants
As a UK garden expert I am frequently asked which shade-loving plants are best suited to summer in the UK. This is a great question, as there is a wonderful range of plants available to thrive in those shadier spots in a garden. The right choice of plants can be the difference between a garden full of life and colour, or a vacant and uninviting space.
When deciding on which plants to select for summer shade it is important to consider what other environmental factors need to be taken into account such as soil type, drainage and sun exposure. This will give you an indication of what type of plants will survive in the intended location.
Once this has been established it is time to explore the various options available. Some great shade-loving plants for summer are Alchemilla mollis (Lady’s Mantle), Ferns, Wildflowers such as Bugleweed and Violets, Sweet Woodruff, Hosta, Primula malacoides, Solomon’s Seal, Brunnera macrophylla (commonly known as False Forget Me Not or Siberian Bugloss) and Brunnera jack-in-the-pulpit. All of these plants are perfect for creating a wonderfully colourful and textured garden that is full of life even in the depths of summer.
They thrive in shaded too much sun or water, and many of the varieties are resilient enough to survive even in UK’s less forgiving conditions. No matter what type of garden you have and whatever the season, there is sure to be a shade-loving plant that will bring some life and colour to your outdoor space and bring joy to your summer afternoons.
Final thoughts on 10 plants for summer shade
Summer Shade with 10 Perfect PlantsAs a UK garden expert, I am confident in recommending the following 10 plants for providing the perfect amount of shade during the summer months. You’ll find that each plant comes with its own unique benefits and characteristics that can easily create a stylish and beautiful outdoor area. The first of these plants is the ever-popular Japanese maples.
These are well-known for their varying shades of greens, providing the perfect backdrop for any garden. They provide a nice shade on a hot summer day, while also adding a unique and often whimsical touch.
For a more modern touch, try planting succulents such as cactus. Not only are they perfect for the summer sun, but they add an undeniable style and character to any garden.
Whether you choose to plant them in containers or directly into the ground, these plants can provide a great focal point for any summer garden. Another great option for providing summer shade is by using rose trees. Not only are these plants aesthetically pleasing, but they are also highly fragrant and often come in a variety of sizes and shapes, allowing you to choose the best rose for your specific area.
They are also a great way to keep your outdoor space looking vibrant and inviting all summer. Finally, for a touch of old-fashioned charm and elegance, consider planting some grape vines.
These not only provide plenty of welcome shade, but they also add a classy, rustic touch to any outdoor space. Not to mention, they are highly efficient at blocking out unwanted heat. In conclusion, there are plenty of options when it comes to finding the perfect plants for summer shade.
Whether you’re looking for a modern touch with succulents, the classic look of rose trees, or a touch of whimsy with Japanese maples, these 10 perfect plants are sure to keep you cool and comfortable all summer long.
Bottom Line
This article discussed 10 plants for summer shade, including ferns, hostas, astilbes, and coral bells. These plants can provide a lush, shady oasis in your garden during the hot summer months.
With a variety of sizes and colors, these plants can help you create a beautiful and inviting outdoor space. With proper care, these plants can thrive in the summer heat and provide much-needed relief from the sun.
FAQ
What are the best plants for providing summer shade?
The best plants for providing summer shade are trees such as maple, oak, and elm; shrubs such as viburnum and boxwood; and vines such as clematis and wisteria.
What are the benefits of planting shade-providing plants in the summer?
The benefits of planting shade-providing plants in the summer include reducing the temperature of the surrounding environment, providing a natural source of cooling, and providing a habitat for wildlife. Additionally, shade-providing plants can help to conserve water and reduce energy costs by blocking the sun’s rays.
What types of plants are best for providing summer shade?
Trees with large canopies are the best type of plants for providing summer shade. Examples of trees that provide good summer shade include maple, oak, and elm.
How can I create a shady area in my garden during the summer?
One way to create a shady area in your garden during the summer is to plant trees or shrubs that will provide shade. Additionally, you can install a pergola or a trellis with climbing vines to provide additional shade. You can also use umbrellas or awnings to provide shade.
What are the best ways to care for shade-providing plants in the summer?
The best ways to care for shade-providing plants in the summer are to water them regularly, keep them in a shaded area, fertilize them with a balanced fertilizer, and prune them to maintain their shape.
What are some of the most popular plants for providing summer shade?
Some of the most popular plants for providing summer shade include trees such as maple, oak, and birch; shrubs such as hydrangea and rhododendron; and vines such as clematis and wisteria.
