Plants for Shade

Clivia – Indigenous Spring Bloomer for Shade or Under Trees

The Clivia is a beloved South African classic, ideal for planting beneath trees or in shaded spots where few other plants thrive. With vibrant trumpet-shaped blooms in spring and bold, strap-like leaves year-round, it makes a striking feature plant for any garden.

Once established, it’s low maintenance and drought-tolerant, making it perfect for Cape Town’s waterwise gardeners.

• Indigenous and shade-loving
• Spring-flowering with bold blooms
• Excellent in mass plantings or containers
• Grows well with minimal care
• Ideal for Western Cape’s winter rainfall gardens

The Bamboo Palm is a beautiful, evergreen, multi-stemmed palm with feathery, arching leaves. One of the most popular houseplants and adds a tropical touch to living rooms, office reception areas and patios. Does well in bright light indoors and on patios and needs moderate watering. The Bamboo palm benefits with occasional misting to increase humidity. 

A quick-growing, magical, perennial shrub forming a lovely, rounded, dense bush. It has dark green, glossy leaves with intensely purple undersides and sprays of lavender flowers. Developed at Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden in South Africa. Indigenous. Flowers in autumn and spring. Morning sun is best. Ideal in pots or flower beds. 

The large-lobed, evergreen leaves of Philodendron'Hope',also known as 'Tree Philodendron', add a tropical flair to any space. This versatile beauty can be used as a solitary specimen, in lobbies, on patios or in the garden. An easy-care plant that filters toxins from the air when used indoors. Great in containers -indoors or outdoors. Plant Philodendron 'Hope' in well drained soil to ensure optimal growth.

A showstopper with its thick, round, smooth and curly foliage that is very suitable to be used in containers or in mixed beds. Heavenly fragrant flowers in spring and autumn. The orange blossom fragrance alone makes it an essential for a small to medium-sized garden. The flowers are also often seen in flower arrangements.

Exotic looking. Ideal for large shady areas. Magnificent in containers. This medium to large tree fern from Australia is single-stemmed, with a tall trunk and an umbrella-like crown of large fronds. Young fern leaves are rolled up and beautiful to watch unfold. Tolerates quite a bit of sun. Water often into the crown, but not into the crown during the winter. Keep soil moist. If grown indoors, ensure that it is placed in a light and airy room.

Gardenias, renowned for their captivating fragrance and beautiful white or yellow flowers that bloom during spring and early summer, are suitable for gardens or indoor pots. This evergreen shrub thrives in warm climates with indirect sunlight. It requires well-drained, acidic soil enriched with organic matter. Regular watering is essential, but take care not to overwater, as their roots are sensitive to waterlogged conditions. Plant them near a patio, garden bench, or window to fully enjoy their fragrance. They do best with morning sun and afternoon shade.

This dwarf cultivar of Carissa macrocarpa is a popular groundcover which seldom grows more than knee height. It forms a dense mat of attractive, glossy emerald green foliage. Fragrant, starry white flowers and edible red fruit occasionally throught the year. Also looks great in a container. Due to its hardiness, drought-resistance and evergreen nature it is widely used in commercial landscapes, along road sides and in parking areas under trees. Indigenous.

Magic Mona will delight with a profusion of large, beautiful purple flowers during Autumn. A compact grower. A perennial bee magnet to any garden. Ideal in pots or flower beds. Indigenous.

Black Mondo grass, also known as' Black Dragon', is a dramatic ornamental grass that captivates with its deep-purple to nearly jet-black leaves. In summer, it surprises with small, bell-shaped, pale pinkish-white flowers that emerge on dark stems, later transforming into glossy dark-purple berries.

Notably, it is also remarkably low-maintenance and thrives in partial to full shade, making it an ideal choice for shaded garden areas. Additionally, the striking dark foliage of Black Mondo grass provides a stunning colour contrast in mixed plantings.

A best-seller. Popular due to its attractive foliage, drought tolerance and pest free nature this plant looks fantastic in hanging baskets or containers. Widely used as a quick spreading ground cover for outdoor garden landscaping. The variegated leaves brighten up a shady area. This favourite prefers partial shade, especially in hot climates.  The plant produces long, slender stems which carry white flowers and plantlets at the tip of the flowers.  A single plant with its stems soon become a mother plant surrounded by its 'babies' and therefore the name 'hen and chickens' Water regularly during the growing season but sparingly in winter when the plant is dormant. They prefer being watered from the bottom and not from above. Indigenous. 

This variety has a compact form, ideal for flower beds, patio pots and stunning when planted in groups for a mass flowering display. Beautiful, trumpet-shaped white flowers are on show throughout the warmer months over shiny green foliage. Flowers abundantly and continuously from Spring into early autumn. Grows best in a sunny position in moist, free draining soil. Maximum size when mature:45cmH×45cmW.

An elegant, fast-growing evergreen shrub indigenous to South Africa. Ideal for semi-shade or filtered sun, it produces masses of mauve to white, bell-shaped flowers in spring and summer that attract birds, butterflies, and carpenter bees. Its glossy green leaves form a lush, informal screen—perfect for small gardens, along stream banks, or in containers.

Water wise, with non-invasive roots and a soft, graceful form, the River Bell is easy to prune and thrives in shaded spots. A top choice for adding gentle colour and movement to sheltered garden areas.

Long leaves unfold from the heart of the fern which is covered in chocolate coloured hairs resembling a bird's nest.  One of the best places to keep this fern is near a shower or bath where it will receive optimal humidity. It is best to keep sufficient space around the leaves as the edges are easily damaged. Can also be grown in the garden in filtered light. Do not water directly into the rosette to prevent rot. This low-maintenance beauty performs best in well-draining soil. 

A hardy, evergreen creeper traditionally used to make jam and rope. Attractive foliage. Indigenous, fast grower for covering fences or pergolas. Can also be used as a ground-cover. Small green-yellow flowers in late summer, followed by tart ‘grape-looking’ berries. The flowers will attract insects to your garden. It can be used as a screen.

A magnificent shrub that will flower continuously from spring to autumn. Fantastic in pots as well as flower beds. Dipladenias dislike being planted against a hot wall. It is best to let them climb up an airy trellis next to the wall if necessary. An absolute favourite of ours.

This variety is compact and blossoms abundantly from summer into early autumn.The unique, pink , star-shaped flower is very large and has a striking,shimmery, pale pink colour. Ideal for smaller gardens, containers and patio pots to add beauty and colour contrast to your summer garden.

Chlorophytum comosum vittata stands out with its green-edged leaves, a deviation from the typical yellow variegation.

This indoor favorite excels in air purification and adapts beautifully to hanging baskets, containers, or as a ground cover in outdoor gardens, especially in partial shade.

Its slender stems produce delicate white flowers and 'babies,' earning it the endearing name 'hen and chickens.' Keep the soil consistently moist, avoiding waterlogged conditions, and water from the bottom. As an indigenous plant, it effortlessly blends into its environment

Known as Christmas roses because this is when they flower. Hydrangeas are undoubtedly among the showiest flowers in the summer garden, with a mop of pom-pom flowers. The soil acidity determines the colour of the flowers. Great cut flowers.

A magnificent shrub that will flower continuously from spring to autumn. Fantastic in pots as well as flower beds. Dipladenias dislike being planted against a hot wall. It is best to let them climb up an airy trellis next to the wall if necessary. An absolute favourite of ours.

Camellia's are the  queen of winter. A beautiful evergreen and compact shrub with glossy, leathery dark green leaves. Once established, this shrub will produce masses of beautiful flowers from late winter until spring. Cut to shape and size. Likes acidic soil.

Known as Christmas roses because this is when they flower. Hydrangeas are undoubtedly among the showiest flowers in the summer garden, with a mop of pom-pom flowers. The soil acidity determines the colour of the flowers. Great cut flowers. Endless Summer is an outstanding variety as it blooms, as its name says, endlessly.

A popular evergreen garden solution for edging paths or underplanting around trees. During summer to autumn the foliage provides a perfect base to a profusion of violet-purple flowers held high on spikes. Undoubtedly one of the most stunning "ornamental grasses" in the world. This groundcover will crowd out weeds and can spread to fill in bare spots with no effort from you.  Easy to grow,

A low and fast-growing, mat-forming plant with green succulent leaves and sprays of pink star-shaped flowers on long stems. Ideal as ground cover in a shady corner.  This drought resistant, indigenous beauty will attract birds to the garden.

The foliage of this stunning fern looks like emerald green flames.  An easy to care for houseplant, but do water regularly.  Ideal for a window sill with filtered light or a humid spot in the house or office.

A lovely landscape shrub, bearing graceful and fragrant flowers in autumn. A beautiful evergreen and compact shrub with glossy, leathery dark green leaves. Bears semi-double pink flowers.  Prefers semi-shade to shade and acidic soil.

This tropical epiphyte succulent prefers to grow in shade or partial shade and can also be grown as a houseplant. It has pencil-thin succulent stems with little bumps on them. Small white flowers are produced in winter, followed by white berries in spring.  It cascades beautifully and is easy to grow. Prefers a warm and light position. Requires hardly any water until the buds are visible. 

A hardy, evergreen ground cover with lush, grass-like foliage that forms dense, low-growing clumps. Ideal for borders, pathways, and rock gardens, it thrives in shade to partial sun and is drought-tolerant once established. Low-maintenance and versatile, it provides year-round greenery and is perfect for erosion control or lawn alternatives. Ideal planted in mass or in groups. 

Persian Shield (Strobilanthes dyerianus) is a striking tropical plant with iridescent purple foliage and silver undertones. Thriving in warm, humid conditions, it adds bold color to gardens, borders, and containers. Low-maintenance and easy to grow, it flourishes in partial shade, occasionally producing delicate purple flowers in late fall. A high-impact choice for any landscape!

The vibrant green leaves have a veined pattern resembling the skin of a crocodile.  A densely clumped fern with upright fronds.  This unique fern will thrive in a humid space.

These begonias have stout stems to 40cm tall. They have large green leaves and are easy-to-grow plants with stunning flowers that should be a must for every shaded garden. They flower for most of the year.

The 'Shiva' Fern is a lush, tropical houseplant known for its full, upright shape and finely textured, arching fronds. Its rich green foliage creates a soft, elegant look that instantly adds freshness to indoor spaces. More structured than the common Boston Fern, the 'Shiva' stands out with its tidy growth habit and vibrant color, making it a striking feature in any pot or hanging basket.

Foxglove remains a favourite for shady gardens. These easy-to-grow beauties with their large spikes of trumpet flowers, will provide striking colour and height to the flower border. The velvety flowers will also last long in a vase. The plants will bloom through summer if their spikes are regularly picked *Just be aware that the plant does contain the chemical digitalis and all parts of the plant is toxic if eaten.

A magnificent shrub that will flower continuously from spring to autumn. Fantastic in pots as well as flower beds. Dipladenias dislike being planted against a hot wall. It is best to let them climb up an airy trellis next to the wall if necessary. An absolute favourite of ours.  Jade is a semi-compact variety.

Digitalis or better known as Foxglove is a firm favourite for shady gardens. These easy-to-grow beauties with their large spikes of white trumpet flowers, will provide striking contrast and height to the flower border. Ideal cut-flower. The plants will bloom through summer if their spikes are regularly picked *Just be aware that the plant does contain the chemical digitalis and all parts of the plant is toxic if eaten.

The Philodendron Black Cardinal is a striking tropical plant with dark, deep burgundy to black leaves that intensify in colour as it matures. Known for its dramatic appearance, it thrives in bright, indirect light and needs regular watering to maintain its lush, bold foliage. This low-maintenance plant makes an excellent choice for adding an exotic touch to indoor spaces.

A marvelous mix of white and pink flowers on one plant.  Beautiful plant that blooms all year round from spring to fall. Perfect for both containers and flower gardens. Dipladenias do not thrive when planted against a warm wall, so it is recommended to allow them to grow on a breezy trellis near the wall, if needed. An absolute favourite of ours.

With its striking, architectural form, the Triangle Palm is a true statement plant. Its unique fronds fan out in three elegant rows, forming a perfect triangle at the base.

Slow-growing and low-maintenance, it's ideal for adding a tropical touch to gardens or large containers. Prefers full sun and well-drained soil. A must-have for collectors and design-conscious gardeners.

A magnificent shrub that will flower continuously from spring to autumn. Fantastic in pots as well as flower beds. Dipladenias dislike being planted against a hot wall. It is best to let them climb up an airy trellis next to the wall if necessary. An absolute favourite of ours.

The Philodendron Bipinnatifidum ‘Narrow’ is a bold, tropical stunner with sleek, deeply lobed leaves that add a lush, sculptural look to any space. Easy to care for, it thrives in bright, indirect light and brings a vibrant, jungle feel to homes and offices. With its narrow, elegant foliage, this low-maintenance plant is perfect for those wanting a statement piece with minimal effort. 

 Fatsia Japonica is a tropical plant that can be grown in the garden, outdoor containers or as an indoor plant. Spider's Web has broad, dark green, palmate leaves with white speckles. Bears clusters of white flowers and glossy black berries. 

Resilient yet refined, Aspidistra 'Starry Night' thrives in deep shade and low-light spaces with minimal care. Its rich, dark green leaves are dusted with delicate speckles, resembling a starry night sky—bringing a touch of celestial beauty indoors or out. Tough as its name suggests, it handles neglect, drought, and draughts with ease. Let the soil dry out between waterings and wipe the leaves with luke warm water to keep their natural shimmer.

A favourite of the shady summer garden. These easy-to-grow beauties with their large spikes of pink trumpet flowers, will provide striking colour and height to the flower border. The velvety flowers will also last long in a vase.  Pick flowers regularly to encourage blooming throughout summer.

 *Just be aware that the plant does contain the chemical digitalis and all parts of the plant is toxic if eaten.

A favourite of the shady summer garden. These easy-to-grow beauties with their large spikes of purple trumpet flowers, will provide striking colour and height to the flower border. The velvety flowers will also last long in a vase.  Pick flowers regularly to encourage blooming throughout summer.

 *Just be aware that the plant does contain the chemical digitalis and all parts of the plant is toxic if eaten.

This compact, evergreen shrub with its beautiful dark green leaves and sweetly fragranced pure-white blooms has an extremely long blooming season. They also make wonderful container plants.

Magic Mona will delight with a profusion of large, beautiful pink-purple flowers during Autumn. A compact grower. A perennial bee magnet to any garden. Ideal in pots or flower beds. Indigenous.

This evergreen, tropical beauty is ideal as an indoor statement plant.  Avis has glossy, smooth and broad strap-like leaves in a vibrant apple-green.  The leaves grow in a rosette pattern and resembles a bird's nest.  Prefers a humid environment in bright, indirect light.  Keep soil moist and well-drained.

Shade-Over is the perfect lawn seed for shaded spots, such as beneath trees. It features a mix of grasses specially suited to grow well in shady areas. With proper mowing, never cutting shorter than 6 to 7 cm in shaded areas—this lawn will flourish year after year.

Shade-Over remains green throughout the seasons and withstands heat effectively.

Philodendron Narrow Golden features striking large-lobed foliage in vibrant lime-green to golden-yellow hues, bringing tropical elegance to any environment. Perfect for both indoor spaces and patios, this evergreen plant requires minimal maintenance while purifying indoor air by removing toxins. Thrives in containers whether placed inside or outside. Requires well-drained soil and moderate watering to maintain its lush, eye-catching appearance.

This attractive plant is a type of Bird's nest Fern, renowned for its narrow, vibrant fronds that stretch out from a compact rosette core. To promote healthy growth, ensure the soil stays slightly damp, but refrain from excessive watering which may cause root-rot.

This highly sought-after tropical plant is prized for its unique yellow flowers. It features stunning, trumpet-shaped blooms with a golden center against glossy, dark green foliage. Unlike traditional Mandevilla, Dipladenia varieties have a bushy, trailing habit, perfect for containers, hanging baskets, and garden beds. Diamantina® Citrine Yellow thrives in full sun, is drought-tolerant once established, and blooms from spring to fall, attracting bees and butterflies while adding a bright, cheerful touch to any outdoor space.

The Nephrolepis ‘Boston Teddy Junior’ is an adorable, compact fern with soft, fluffy fronds, perfect for small spaces, tabletops, and hanging baskets. It loves humidity, making it an ideal bathroom plant, where steam keeps it lush and happy. Unlike larger ferns, Teddy Junior stays neat and low-maintenance, adding a fresh, green touch to any space.