Blooms come and go.
But there are also foliage plants that work well in sun.
These 12 options offer something for every situation and climate.
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
Warning
Some ground covers are pretty butinvasive.
An example is bishop’s weed (Aegopodium podagraria), one throw in of which hasvariegated leaves.
In warmer regions, it may remain evergreen year-round.
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Plant breeders have subsequently produced a number of cultivars that bear leaves with jaw-dropping beauty.
For example, ‘Solar Power’ foamy bells display fantastic golden leaves.
These plants are usually grouped together in perennial beds or as a ground cover.
Liriope spicata is a shade-tolerant ground cover.penboy/Getty Images
If you enjoy color contrasts,black mondo grassmakes an outstanding plant partner for ‘Solar Power’.
Artemisia
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Artemisiais another plant with colorful leaves.
The most common cultivar in this genus is ‘Silver Mound’ (Artemisia schmidtiana’Silver Mound').
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Hardiness range varies somewhat between species, so double-check to choose one rated for your region.
This plant does best in very well-draining soil; it won’t tolerate soggy conditions.
Although they are not especially showy, small pinkish-purple flowers will appear in late spring to early summer.
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To keep it attractive, this plant needs to be pruned down after flowering.
These foliage plants are also fragrant (although the aroma is an acquired taste).
Be careful not to overwater these plants, as too much moisture easily kills them.
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Hosta
Although they do bloom, hostas (Hosta spp.)
For instance, they are sometimes used asedging plantsfor a flower bed.
Leaves can range from tiny, smooth needle-like leaves to huge paddle-shaped leaves with the texture of seersucker.
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These ground-hugging plants have massive, crinkled glossy-green leaves up to 3 feet long.
Elephant ear looks especially nice nearwater features.
But be aware that these plants are quite toxic to pets and humans.
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Even nibbling on the leaves can cause considerable pain and swelling.
Once cultivated to make paper, papyrus now often functions as the centerpiece of a water garden.
Interrupted Fern (Osmunda claytoniana)
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Ferns are a classic choice for shade.
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As a group, they are easily recognized by their fine lacy leaves spreading out from long arching stems.
You’re not always restricted to shady areas with these ancient plants, though.
Do, however, keep its soil thoroughly moistened.
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It is suited for USDA zones 4 to 8.
It tolerates dryish soil fairly well, though it must be well-drained.
Lady fern grows up to 3 feet tall.
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It is one of the few ornamental grasses that do well in somewhat shady conditions.
Avoid too much hot direct afternoon sun.
In the northern part of the range, a layer of mulch may prevent winter kill.
Japanese forest grass, hakonechloa.Flickr member Megan E. Hansen
Newer cultivars and those with yellowish foliage are typically more tolerant of sun than those with deeper color shades.
Coleus plants form dense clusters of leaves along upward-growing stems.
Beyond Bedding Plants
Larger options for outdoor foliage include trees and shrubs.
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Look for types with flashy colors to inject added interest into your plantings.
North Carolina State Extension.
North Carolina State Extension.
