12 Best Plants for North-Facing Gardens

What are the best plants and flowers for north-facing gardens?

If you have a north-facing garden that sees more shade than sunlight, you might often find it tricky to find plants that can survive, let alone thrive – but, you’re not alone in this shady situation! Such gardens, often shadowed for the majority of the day, require a thoughtful selection of plants so that you can enjoy your garden without worrying. Believe it or not, not all plants need lot’s of sun!

Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting to get into gardening, selecting the best plants for north-facing gardens can make all the difference in creating a stunning summer landscape. From balconies and patios to bigger gardens, our top 12 selection caters to all types of north-facing spaces and will give your garden the boost you’ve been looking for – some may have a red flower colour, some are great for a coastal garden or just giving you a bit more ground cover in a raised bed.

Pros and Cons of a North-Facing Garden

A north-facing garden often causes hesitation among property buyers and home owners, however, ruling out a a luscious garden for this reason alone, might mean missing out on hidden opportunities. While these gardens won’t provide day-long sunlight, they have several benefits worth considering…

Advantages

• Offers protection from the harsh afternoon sun, beneficial for shade-loving plants
• Soil retains moisture longer, reducing the need for frequent watering
• Buildings and structures that create the shade can also protect plants from strong winds
• Fewer pests are attracted to cooler, shaded areas, potentially reducing pest infestations
• Provides a unique opportunity to design a lush, green, woodland-style gardens

Disadvantages

• May result in slower growth rates due to reduced light exposure
• Can be challenging to grow sun-loving plants that require full sun conditions
• Soil in shaded areas can become overly damp, increasing the risk of root rot
• Less heat can delay the blooming period of certain plants
• Might necessitate more frequent pruning to manage plant health and air circulation

Bedding Plants for Shade and North-Facing Gardens

From the lush foliage of hostas to the delicate blooms of forget-me-nots these plants are perfect for under trees, along north-facing walls or in any garden spot that receives limited sunlight.

1. Hostas
2. Ferns
3. Primroses
4. Forget-me-nots
5. Hydrangeas
6. Foxgloves
7. Rhododendrons
8. Camellias
9. Bleeding Hearts
10. Astilbes
11. Erysimum
12. Bergenia

1. Hostas

Renowned for their lush, sculptural foliage, hostas are ideal for shaded or north-facing gardens. They come in a variety of greens, blues, and variegated patterns, providing a vibrant backdrop even in low light conditions. Thriving in moist, well-drained soil, these hardy perennials are perfect for underplanting beneath taller shrubs or in woodland garden settings, adding texture and depth to the understory.

2. Ferns

The quintessential shade garden plant, ferns bring an elegant, prehistoric charm to any north-facing garden. With their feathery, green fronds, they excel in damp, shady spots where few other plants can thrive. Ferns are excellent for filling out dark corners, lining pathways, or creating a lush undergrowth that evokes a calming and ancient woodland feel.

3. Primroses

Bright and cheerful, primroses are one of the first splashes of colour in early spring, signalling the end of winter. They prefer indirect light and cooler temperatures, which makes them suitable for north-facing gardens. Available in a range of colours, from whites and yellows to pinks and purples, primroses can brighten up shadowy spots with their delightful blooms and are ideal for borders or as part of a mixed container.

4. Forget-me-nots

Charming and delicate, forget-me-nots offer dainty clusters of sky-blue flowers that create a sea of soft colour in the springtime. These woodland natives thrive in shady conditions where they can moisten consistently damp soil, making them ideal companions for other shade lovers in north-facing gardens. Their spreading habit and self-seeding nature ensure a continual presence, making them perfect for naturalistic or cottage garden styles.

5. Hydrangeas

Known for their large, show-stopping blooms, hydrangeas are a favourite for any shady garden. These robust shrubs prefer morning sun and afternoon shade, making north-facing gardens an ideal location. Their flowers can range from vibrant blues and pinks to serene whites and greens, depending on the soil’s pH level. Hydrangeas add a voluminous and colourful presence to any garden, excelling in borders or as standalone features.

6. Foxgloves

With their tall, striking spikes of tubular flowers, foxgloves are a bold choice for a shaded garden. They excel in the dappled light of a north-facing garden, providing vertical interest and a touch of wildness. Available in an array of colours from pinks to whites, they attract pollinators such as bees, adding life and vibrancy to the garden. Note their toxicity, which should be considered if children or pets are present.

7. Rhododendrons

These evergreen shrubs are perfect for adding structure and year-round interest to shaded areas. Rhododendrons thrive in filtered light and well-drained acidic soil, making them suited to north-facing gardens sheltered from cold winds. Their spectacular spring blooms bring vibrant colour and are available in a wide range of shades, from pale pinks to deep purples.

8. Camellias

Elegant and sophisticated, camellias bloom with glossy leaves and stunning flowers during the cooler months, providing color and interest when most other plants are dormant. They prefer acidic soil and partial shade, where their delicate blooms are protected from early morning sun. Perfect for adding a splash of winter and spring colour to a north-facing garden.

9. Bleeding Hearts

Known for their unique, heart-shaped flowers that dangle from arching stems, bleeding hearts are a captivating addition to any shady garden spot. They thrive in cool, moist conditions typical of north-facing gardens and are ideal for creating colour underplantings beneath larger shrubs or trees.

10. Astibles

Astilbes are prized for their feathery, plume-like flowers that rise above fern-like foliage in mid to late summer. They excel in moist, shady conditions, making them a perfect match for the consistent shade of north-facing gardens. Their range of colours, from soft pinks to vibrant reds, adds a bright, airy feel to any shaded area.

11. Erysimum

While often associated with sunnier spots, certain varieties of Erysimum (wallflowers) can adapt to less intense light, making them versatile for north-facing borders. Their long-lasting and highly fragrant blooms provide a splash of colour in early spring, offering shades of yellow, orange, and deep mauve.

12. Bergenia

Robust and resilient, Bergenia plants are known for their large, glossy leaves that turn bronzy in winter, adding year-round interest. The pink or white flowers emerge in spring, standing boldly against the dark foliage. Bergenias are excellent ground cover for shady areas and thrive in the cool, moist conditions of north-facing gardens.

How Alsoils Can Help

Our team of experts are ready to offer tailored advice and provide high-quality beds and border topsoil, manure, and compost products to ensure your north-facing plants and flowers thrive. Whether you need the perfect compost mix, tips on plant selection, or a consultation on your garden’s specific needs, Alsoils is here to support your gardening journey!