19 Shade Loving Perennials For Zone 6 Shade Gardens

If you live in USDA hardiness zone 6 and have shady areas in your yard that most plants will not tolerate, there are plenty of shade-loving perennials that may be exactly what you are looking for. While many shade lovers that thrive in zone 5 will also grow well here, it is always nice to have a few more options.

So, where is zone 6? It includes some of the colder regions of the United States. Many states have areas that fall into this category, including Massachusetts, Delaware, Ohio, Kentucky, Kansas, New Mexico, Arizona, Utah, Nevada, and Washington.

No matter where you are within zone 6, choosing the right perennials for shade is essential if you are planning your own shade garden oasis. And if your yard is filled with large, mature trees, you will need plants that can handle deep shade throughout the season. Here are some of our favorite zone 6 shade perennials that return year after year.

Bleeding Heart

	botanical name Lamprocapnos spectabilis (Northern Asia)
	plant type Perennial
	sun requirements Partial to full shade
	height Up to 3 feet tall
	hardiness zones 3-9

These shade perennials for zone 6 are natives of Asia. They bloom in early spring, go dormant from summer through winter, and return the following spring. They are especially well-suited for planting beneath trees.

Their name comes from the pink, red, or white heart-shaped flowers that hang in rows along arching stems. Bleeding heart plants can reach about three feet tall and three feet wide at maturity. It can take up to 60 days for them to reach full size.

They require little maintenance and thrive in partial to full shade with moist, well-drained soil. They stay in bloom for several weeks. If you do not deadhead them after the flowers close, they will reseed themselves. Keep in mind that bleeding hearts are poisonous to kids and pets, especially dogs.

Columbine

	botanical name Aquilegia spp.
	plant type Perennial, Annual
	sun requirements Full sun to partial shade
	height 12 to 18 inches
	hardiness zones 3 to 8

These beautiful perennial flowers grow best in cooler regions with partial afternoon shade. They do not bloom in the heat, and their flowers are long gone by late July. Each year, they will reseed and bloom again in spring if you do not remove the spent flower heads. The plants develop clover-like foliage and jester hat-shaped blooms in white, yellow, pink, red, or purple.

The flowers dangle from the ends of long, thin stems that rise above the plant. Some varieties reach 18 to 24 inches tall, while others remain dwarf. They are ideal for rock gardens or as accents along fences.

These zone 6 shade perennials grow well in dry soil. They have a short lifespan, typically living only three to four years.

Coral Bells

	botanical name Heuchera (North America)
	plant type Perennial
	sun requirements Partial shade
	height 16 inches
	hardiness zones 4-9

Coral bells, or alumroot, often grow naturally in wooded areas with plenty of shade and a bit of dappled sunlight. The soft, wrinkled foliage of these zone 6 shade perennials can range from green, red, brown, yellow, white, pink, or burgundy in mid-summer. From the center of the plant rise slender green spikes topped with delicate bell-shaped flowers, most commonly in lavender or white.

If you plant them from late fall through early spring, you can enjoy their blooms in summer. These North American natives thrive in containers as solo plants or in clusters, and they look beautiful in flowerbeds alongside other shade-loving perennials. Their nectar-rich flowers are also highly attractive to butterflies and hummingbirds.

These unique evergreen plants grow about 12 to 18 inches tall and wide and can brighten any garden or shady spot. They require very little maintenance beyond regular watering and maintain their beauty year-round.

Corydalis

	botanical name Corydalis yanhusuo (Asia)
	plant type Perennial
	sun requirements Partial shade
	height 12 – 18 inches
	hardiness zones 5 – 7

Historically, this herbal plant has been used in traditional Chinese remedies. It is a relative of the bleeding heart and lasts from spring until the first frost. In North America, blue and yellow corydalis are the most common. These colorful, mound-shaped plants make excellent garden borders or ground covers beneath trees.

With clusters of flowers held above long, thin stems, corydalis can grow up to 18 inches tall. These zone 6 shade perennials prefer moist, alkaline soil and partial shade, but they can tolerate some sunlight as long as you water them regularly.

Country & Western Astilbe

	botanical name Astilbe ‘Country and Western’ (garden origin)
	plant type Perennial
	sun requirements Full sun to full shade
	height 1-2′
	hardiness zones 3 to 8

‘Country & Western’ astilbe has green compound leaves and clusters of soft, fuzzy pink flowers held on long stems that bloom in early summer. These perennials tolerate full sun to full shade and typically grow 18 to 24 inches tall and wide.

You can plant them in containers, flower beds, or use them as border plants in shady areas. They look especially beautiful near streams or ponds. Planting them in groups will make an even greater impact in the garden. As a bonus, they attract butterflies while repelling deer and rabbits.

Astilbes need moist, well-drained soil and frequent watering. Applying mulch is an excellent way to help the soil retain moisture and prevent it from drying out.

Creeping Myrtle

	botanical name Vinca minor (Europe)
	plant type Perennial
	sun requirements Full sun to partial shade
	height 3-6″
	hardiness zones 4 to 9

If you have seen periwinkle, then you know what creeping myrtles look like. Growing only 3 to 6 inches tall and about 18 inches wide, their purple pinwheel-shaped flowers and glossy, flat leaves make them excellent ground covers under trees and in areas where grass will not grow.

As they spread, these zone 6 shade perennials naturally suppress weeds. Blooming lasts from spring through summer.

Native to Europe, creeping myrtles were once known as flowers of death during medieval times. These plants can be invasive in some regions, but they are tough and low-maintenance. They are drought-tolerant, though they will need watering at first to establish strong roots.

As long as the soil drains well, they do not require regular watering. They also repel many pests but are toxic to pets, so keep dogs away from beds planted with creeping myrtle.

English Daisies

	botanical name Bellis perennis (Europe)
	plant type Perennial Grown as Biennial
	sun requirements Full sun to partial shade
	height 3-6 inches
	hardiness zones 4 to 8

Other names for English daisies include lawn daisies and European daisies. You can recognize these zone 6 shade perennials by their yellow centers and thin, delicate, colorful petals.

Their stems typically reach 3 to 6 inches tall. These small, dainty flowers flourish in cooler temperatures and are ideal for filling in bare spots in the garden. They prefer lean, moist soil and will often perform better in poor soil than in rich, heavily amended beds.

Ferns

	botanical name Polypodiophyta group (Variety Dependent)
	plant type Perennial
	sun requirements Full sun to full shade
	height Varies
	hardiness zones Varies

There are many fern varieties that are tough and well-suited to shady locations. What sets ferns apart from other plants is that they do not flower. They have roots, stems, and leaves, but they reproduce by spores rather than seeds. The small dots on the backs of their leaves are spore cases that release those spores.

Many ferns are tolerant of cold temperatures but sensitive to over-fertilization. They tend to grow slowly and can take years to mature. Most prefer well-drained, organic soil in moist, shady areas such as woodland settings or the north side of buildings. However, a few varieties can tolerate drier soil and even some sun.

Foam Flowers

	botanical name Tiarella cordifolia (North America)
	plant type Perennial
	sun requirements Partial full shade
	height 12-18 Inches
	hardiness zones 3 to 8

Native to the eastern regions of North America, foam flowers make excellent ground covers for flower beds and borders. At maturity, they grow up to 18 inches tall and 1 to 2 feet wide.

Foam flowers are easy to recognize by their maple-shaped green leaves, sometimes marked with burgundy veins, and their long spikes of small, foamy white star-shaped blooms that rise above the foliage in spring.

The flowers last about four to six weeks before you will need to deadhead them. The foliage remains attractive throughout the year thanks to its distinctive shape and coloring. These zone 6 shade perennials prefer cool, moist, well-drained soil and need at least four hours of shade to stay healthy. They are also deer and rabbit-resistant.

Hosta

	botanical name Hosta spp. (Asia)
	plant type Perennial
	sun requirements Partial to full shade
	height 2 to 4 feet
	hardiness zones 3 to 9

Hostas are among the most popular problem-free perennials for shade. Their beautiful foliage adds color and texture to any garden. Depending on the variety, they can grow from about 6 inches tall to nearly 4 feet and often take several years to reach full maturity.

With more than 2,500 cultivars available, hostas vary widely in leaf shape, size, and color. They thrive in shade but still need some sunlight. Lighter or striped leaves need more sun than solid, deeper colored varieties. Hostas pair well with many other plants and are famously easy to grow.

In early spring or early fall, when temperatures are mild, they produce white, lavender, or pink blooms on tall stalks that rise above the glossy foliage. They require very little care and only need moderately moist, well-drained soil.

Hostas do attract deer and slugs, but there are effective ways to deter both. If you enjoy pollinators, hostas are popular with bees and butterflies. Keep in mind that they are toxic to pets and horses.

Brunnera

	botanical name Brunnera macrophylla (Eastern Europe)
	plant type Herbaceous Perennial
	sun requirements Partial to full shade
	height 12 to 18 inches
	hardiness zones 3 to 8

For a one of a kind look in your landscaping, brunnera delivers. This partial to full shade perennial has heart-shaped, velvety leaves with a silver overlay and green veins, along with delicate, light blue flowers that bloom in early spring.

Brunnera typically grows 12 to 18 inches tall and 18 to 24 inches wide. Many gardeners note that its tiny blooms resemble forget-me-nots. The flowers last for three to four weeks before gradually fading back into the thick mound of foliage.

These plants work beautifully in flowerbeds, either solo or in clusters, and they blend well with other shade lovers. Brunneras are more heat-tolerant than many related varieties and enjoy morning sun, but they prefer partial to full shade in the afternoon. They need moist, well-drained soil.

Overall, brunnera is low maintenance, but consistent watering is important unless you use mulch to help retain soil moisture. Leaves may develop brown spots if the plant becomes too dry. Brunneras also repel pests, deer, and rabbits.

Japanese Spurge

	botanical name Pachysandra terminalis (Asia)
	plant type Evergreen Perennial
	sun requirements Partial to full shade
	height 6-12 inches
	hardiness zones 4 to 9

Japanese pachysandra is an evergreen shade perennial for zone 6 and an excellent ground cover. It has leathery, dark green, glossy leaves and produces small white flowers in early spring. Mature plants can reach about 1 foot tall.

After the bloom season ends, the foliage turns yellow rather than dying back completely, and the roots remain alive beneath the soil. Once established, Japanese pachysandra spreads readily and can intrude on nearby plants if not given enough space.

The best place to plant it is in partially to fully shaded beds with poor soil, and it is especially useful in those difficult, hard-to-grow areas. Keep in mind that pachysandra is considered invasive in many states, so check your local regulations before planting.

Japanese Toad Lilly

	botanical name Tricyrtis spp. (Asia)
	plant type Perennial
	sun requirements Partial to full shade
	height 2-3′
	hardiness zones 4 to 9

Another Asian native, the Japanese toad lily grows naturally on rocky hillsides and near streams. It makes a beautiful border plant in shaded landscapes. Its flowers are truly unique, with six white petals covered in lavender speckles held on thin, velvety stems that rise from textured leaves.

Flower shape varies slightly from species to species. Japanese toad lilies need moist soil, plenty of organic matter, and consistent shade. Feeding with a half-strength liquid fertilizer in spring will help keep them healthy.

The flowers bloom in late summer and fall and attract hummingbirds along with pollinators such as bees and butterflies. This zone 6 shade perennial also performs very well in containers or planters.

Lenten Rose

	botanical name Helleborus x hybridus (Europe)
	plant type Perennial
	sun requirements Partial to full shade
	height 12-18″
	hardiness zones 4 to 9

The Lenten rose is an evergreen perennial that blooms around Lent in late winter, producing rose-like flowers in shades of white, pink, and rose purple, along with leathery green foliage. This shade-friendly plant is a favorite in shade gardens for its early color and elegant form.

The 2 to 3 inch flowers may face downward or upward, depending on the variety, and are held on thick stems that rise above the foliage. Each cultivar has its own markings and either smooth or ruffled petals. Colors are most vibrant in spring and fade by fall, which makes Lenten roses perfect for brightening shade gardens early in the season.

Lenten roses take two to three years to reach full size. When planted in early fall or late spring, they take about 8 to 10 weeks to bloom. They do well in partial to full shade, especially beneath trees or in sheltered spots protected from summer winds.

These perennials prefer moist, loamy soil and benefit from increased sunlight during winter. Mulching in early winter helps keep the soil from drying out. While beautiful and symbolic, these zone 6 shade perennials are toxic to humans, pets, and horses, and they are naturally deer resistant.

Leopard’s Bane

	botanical name Doronicum columnae (Europe)
	plant type Perennial
	sun requirements Bright, indirect light
	height 12-18″
	hardiness zones 3 to 8

This pretty plant is one of the first to bloom in spring and grows from tubers. Its yellow, daisy-like flowers and green, heart-shaped foliage prefer moist, well-drained soil and partial to full afternoon shade in warmer climates. In cooler regions, it performs better in full sun. Mature plants typically reach 12 to 18 inches tall.

These cold-hardy perennials survive well in most areas of Utah. They bloom twice a year, in spring and again in fall. They need frequent watering because they do not tolerate dry soil, and they go dormant during summer. They pair beautifully with tulips, daffodils, and other shade-loving plants.

Lungwort

	botanical name Pulmonaria spp. (Europe, Asia)
	plant type Perennial
	sun requirements Partial shade
	height 6–12″
	hardiness zones 3 to 8

This perennial has an unusual name that reflects its history. Lungwort was once used as a remedy for lung disorders. Today, it is prized in gardens for its distinctive appearance. Some gardeners call it the spotted dog plant because of the white speckles scattered across its green leaves.

For the best results, plant lungwort in fall. It blooms in early spring and often produces clusters of flowers in different colors on the same plant. It can grow up to 18 inches tall and spreads quickly. Lungwort thrives in full shade to partial sunlight, often beneath trees.

Choose a planting spot that retains moisture. Shaded flowerbeds along fences or walls are excellent locations. This perennial attracts bees and butterflies but is toxic to humans and pets.

Indian Pink 

	botanical name Spigelia marilandica (Southern United States)
	plant type Perennial
	sun requirements Partial shade
	height 1-2′
	hardiness zones 5 to 9

Indian pink is native to the southeastern United States and is considered a rarity. It is the only perennial on this list that is also tropical. This shade-loving plant appreciates heat and grows 1 to 2 feet tall.

In summer, it produces long tubular red flowers tipped with yellow star-shaped openings that attract hummingbirds and butterflies. The leaves are dark green and lance-shaped, creating a beautiful contrast with the bright blooms.

This wildflower prefers moderately wet, well-drained soil. You will often find it growing in woodlands and other naturally shaded areas.

Sun King Aralia

	botanical name Aralia cordata ‘Sun King’ (garden origin)
	plant type Herbaceous Perennial
	sun requirements Partial Shade
	height 3-6′
	hardiness zones 4 to 8

As the name suggests, ‘Sun King’ aralia produces bright yellow shoots in spring and clusters of white flowers in summer. The foliage remains a rich golden color as long as the plant receives light shade. Mature plants can reach up to 6 feet tall and grow quickly.

If you need height in a shade garden, this is an excellent choice. ‘Sun King’ aralia produces little to no suckers or reseeding and eventually forms small, dark, inedible berries.

Light pruning in spring can help encourage branching in these zone 6 shade perennials. Plant it with other perennials to add bold color and contrast. To prevent dehydration, be sure to water it regularly during summer.

Wind Flower

	botanical name Anemone spp. (China)
	plant type Perennial
	sun requirements Full sun to partial shade
	height 1-4′
	hardiness zones 4 to 9

Several species of windflower exist, with some blooming in spring and others in fall. These unique plants grow from tubers beneath the soil. Their stalks rise anywhere from 6 inches to 4 feet tall and sway gently in the wind.

These fast-growing zone 6 shade perennials produce poppy-like flowers about 2.5 inches across in shades of pink, white, red, purple, and yellow. Some varieties have single blossoms, while others produce double blooms on each stem.

Windflowers thrive in rich, moist soil. They are toxic to humans and pets if ingested.