When we layer plants on and around each other in the garden, we create something of a miniature ecosystem, where all of the plants interact with each other. Hopefully, for the better! This can be as elaborate as a permaculture system or as simple as a couple of companion plants.

No matter how you execute it, the benefits of tucking plants into the shade of others, such as around trees or beneath taller plants, are clear.


They can protect the soil, invite beneficial bugs, and add to the overall aesthetic of the garden. In fact, even if you aren’t pairing them with other plants at all, adding colorful plants to shady areas is a beautiful addition to your landscape. These in particular will also help to support bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, which your garden (and neighbors) will thank you for!

Shade Tolerant Perennials for Pollinators

Bee Balm (Monarda). Aptly named, this one does not disappoint. Bee balm is covered in bright tufted flowers that attract not only bees but ruby-throated hummingbirds, as well. In the cool lighting of a part-shade garden spot, bee balm stands out as vibrant and lovely. As a perennial, watch to be sure it does not overtake its area. Otherwise, enjoy clusters that grow up to four feet tall! Hardy to zones 4-9.

Coral Bells (Heuchera). Because they are so cold hardy, heuchera are sometimes considered evergreen, though “green” is only a small part. Few plants can boast such colors as vibrant as the heuchera.

Foliage ranges from deep purples and reds to vivid green and combinations, with flowers spiking up throughout. It’s no wonder they attract pollinators!

Asters are very similar to daisies but in perennial form, and their colorful petals make beautiful “daisy” chains. Asters grow to be tall, casting plenty of shade on their own, but they also enjoy being tucked into part shade areas. Hardy to zones 3-8.

Annuals for Pollinators in the Shade

Columbine (Aquilegia). The columbine is a classic addition to the flower garden, and in the shade it is even more likely to stand out. A little bit of deadheading will keep the blossoms coming, along with pollinators attracted to star shaped petals and vibrant colors. As an added benefit, columbines tend to be deer resistant, so be sure to tuck them along fences and borders to shoo the deer away!

Lenten Rose (Helleborus). Adding some depth of rich color to the garden, the Lenten rose is actually best suited to the cold, emerging as a late fall bloom. It’s sometimes called the Christmas Rose for this reason. Once planted in a nice shady area, the Lenten Rose needs very little else.

Lantana. Peeking out from the shade a bit, into part sun, is the Lantana. Even though it’s not a true shad plant, who can resist what looks like tiny bouquets covering the plant? Tiny flowers are clustered together into a bouquet shape, no doubt intriguing children for generations – as well as the bees and butterflies.

Purslane. Easy to grow and maintain, purslane is a succulent that adapts well in many circumstances. Small, glossy leaves frame larger, open blossoms in purples and yellows. In addition to attracting bees and butterflies to your garden, purslane has a history of herbal use as a remedy.