THE PLANTS IN THIS SECTION ARE SHADE LOVERS. Some may thrive in the deep shade provided by evergreen trees and shrubs, or the north side of buildings. Others might need a touch of sun, thriving with perhaps just an hour or two of morning rays or the dappled light provided by tall, openly branched deciduous trees or shrubs. Keep in mind that many of these plants may be able to tolerate more sun in cool areas or with extra moisture, but they are placed in this section due to their primary need to be out of bright, hot sunlight. “Partial shade to full shade” means that the plant will do best with a little direct—especially morning—sun but will tolerate all-day shade. “Full shade to mostly shade” is reserved for those that do best with very little or no direct sunlight.
PLANT TYPE: Deciduous perennial
SIZE: 1 foot tall
LIGHT REQUIREMENTS: Shade to mostly shade
WATER REQUIREMENTS: Medium
HARDINESS ZONES: 6a to 9b
A graceful, gently spreading perennial that forms a lush, green, delicate carpet under forest trees. Large, stalked leaves divided into 3 horizontal leaflets arise at close intervals from creeping rhizomes. Dried leaves offer a vanillalike fragrance. Small but showy spikes of tiny white flowers emerge above the leaves. Grow this lovely ground cover under shade trees and shrubs, or near shaded ponds or streams. With its demure demeanor, vanilla leaf may not compete well with more vigorous ground covers.
How big: 1 foot tall; spreads slowly.
Bloom traits: Blooms in late spring to early summer with little bottlebrush panicles composed of many small white flowers without petals. Fruits are small achenes that contain the seeds.
Sun and soil: Full shade to mostly shade. Moist soil rich in organic matter.
Where it grows: Shady, moist forests and along streams, at low to middle elevations.
How to space it: 2–3 feet apart.
Help it thrive: Moderate summer water.
Associates: Douglas-fir, western hemlock, western azalea, thimbleberry, western white anemone, western maidenhair fern, deer fern, false solomon’s seal, bunchberry, oxalis, and others.
Benefits to wildlife: Flowers provide for bees and other beneficial insects. Provides cover for small creatures.
Substitute for: Bishop’s weed (Aegopodium podagraria), arum (Arum italicum).
How to propagate: From seed collected when ripe and planted outdoors soon afterward, or division of rhizomes in spring.
Related species: California vanilla leaf (Achlys californica) grows naturally near the coast and has more deeply lobed leaves.
PLANT TYPE: Deciduous fern
SIZE: 1–3 feet x 1–2 feet
LIGHT REQUIREMENTS: Shade to mostly shade
WATER REQUIREMENTS: Medium
HARDINESS ZONES: 3b to 9b
An airy, perennial fern with delicate-looking structure and fine texture. Thin black stems support fan-shaped fronds with small, compound, bright-green leaflets. An unusual horizontally layered branching pattern creates a soft contrast to other woodland natives. Grow it in a moist understory, near a shaded pond, or in containers with ample moisture.
How big: 1–3 feet tall x 1–2 feet wide.
Sun and soil: Full shade to mostly shade. Moist soil rich in organic matter.
Where it grows: Shady, moist woods and ravines, along stream banks, and in rock crevices near waterfalls, at low to middle elevations.
How to space it: 2 feet apart.
Help it thrive: Moderate summer water, more in hot areas.
Associates: Douglas-fir, western hemlock, vine maple, thimbleberry, deer fern, sword fern, Scouler’s corydalis, piggyback plant, goatsbeard, oxalis, and others.
Benefits to wildlife: Provides food and cover for birds and small mammals.
Substitute for: Yellow archangel (Lamiastrum galeobdolon).
How to propagate: Spores, or clump division in early spring.
Related species: Southern maidenhair fern (Adiantum capillus-veneris) is found only near hot mineral springs in British Columbia and south of our region. Northern maidenhair fern (A. pedatum), of which A. aleuticum was once considered a subspecies, has subtle differences and occurs mostly in the eastern United States.
PLANT TYPE: Deciduous perennial
SIZE: 1 foot x 1 foot
LIGHT REQUIREMENTS: Shade to mostly shade
WATER REQUIREMENTS: Medium
HARDINESS ZONES: 6b to 9b
A charming little deciduous perennial with 1 conspicuous pure-white flower and 3 oval, toothed leaflets. Also known as Columbia windflower, this delicate woodlander is a spring bloomer that spreads politely by rhizomes to mingle with other understory plants. Grow it in the understory of woodland gardens with other ground covers, or in pots.
How big: 1 foot tall x 1 foot wide.
Bloom traits: Flowers have 5 white, petallike sepals that bloom from midspring to early summer. Fruits are clusters of spherical achenes.
Sun and soil: Full shade to mostly shade. Moist soil rich in organic matter.
Where it grows: Moist to dry, open to deep woodlands, at low to middle elevations.
How to space it: 1–2 feet apart.
Help it thrive: Low to moderate summer water.
Associates: Serviceberry, trillium, stream violet, star-flowered false solomon’s seal, wild ginger, foamflower, bunchberry, and others.
Benefits to wildlife: Flowers provide nectar and pollen for native bees and other insects. Foliage creates cover for other species.
Substitute for: Nonnative anemones, arum (Arum italicum).
How to propagate: From seed collected in late summer or fall and sown outdoors soon after harvest, or by division in late fall or early spring.
Related species: Blue windflower (Anemone oregana) has larger bluish-purple, pink, or rarely, white flowers and needs similar conditions.
PLANT TYPE: Perennial
SIZE: 3–6 feet x 3–5 feet
LIGHT REQUIREMENTS: Partial shade to shade
WATER REQUIREMENTS: Medium
HARDINESS ZONES: 4a to 9b
This elegant perennial is a graceful addition to woodland gardens and even sunnier spots. Eye-catching, misty plumes of tiny, delicate white flowers light up upright branches that support compound, ferny green leaves. Eventually forming a large clump, this is a plant with an outstanding presence for the back of a shady border, under tall trees, or as a beautiful screen or hedge.
How big: 3–6 feet tall x 3–5 feet wide.
Bloom traits: Large, feathery plumes of tiny, creamy white flowers bloom in early to midsummer. Seeds are produced in follicles on female plants, which tend to be slightly less showy.
Sun and soil: Partial shade to full shade, or even sunny spots in the cooler, northern reaches of the region. Not fussy, but thrives in slightly acidic soil rich in organic matter that is kept moist.
Where it grows: Moist forests, slopes, and along streams and shady roadsides, at low to middle elevations.
How to space it: 4–5 feet apart.
Help it thrive: Somewhat drought tolerant in cool, shady areas, but supplemental summer water is beneficial, especially in sunny or hot areas.
Associates: Douglas-fir, western hemlock, vine maple, Scouler’s corydalis, deer fern, northern maidenhair fern, inside-out flower, stream violet, and others.
Benefits to wildlife: Attracts many insect species, including bees and mourning cloak butterflies, and hummingbirds. Seeds provide forage for small birds in winter. Provides cover for birds and other small animals. Leaves are browsed by deer and elk.
Substitute for: Knotweed (Polygonum spp).
How to propagate: From seed collected from follicles and planted outdoors in fall or spring. Seedlings will result naturally if both male and female plants are present.
Related species: No closely related species occur in the Northwest.
PLANT TYPE: Deciduous or evergreen perennial
SIZE: 3–6 inches
LIGHT REQUIREMENTS: Shade to mostly shade
WATER REQUIREMENTS: Medium
HARDINESS ZONES: 4b to 9b
A lush, evergreen perennial ground cover plant with lustrous, deep-green leaves and a wonderful ginger scent. Extraordinary 3-lobed burgundy flowers bloom secretively for several months beneath the foliage. Spreads fairly quickly by rhizomes to carpet the soil with its charming heart-shaped leaves. Makes a lovely edging along pathways in shady situations. Wild ginger is not closely related to tropical culinary ginger (Zingiber officinale).
How big: 3–6 inches tall; spreads slowly.
Bloom traits: Burgundy and brownish flowers have long, tapered lobes with twisted “tails,” and bloom from midspring to midsummer. Fruit is a large capsule containing several angled seeds.
Sun and soil: Full shade to mostly shade. Consistently moist, slightly acidic soil, rich in organic matter.
Where it grows: Moist, shaded forest floors, at low to middle elevations.
How to space it: 1–2 feet apart.
Help it thrive: Moderate summer water, especially in warm areas.
Associates: Western hemlock, Douglas-fir, vine maple, hazelnut, trillium, western white anemone, ferns, bunchberry, and others.
Benefits to wildlife: Provides a protective cover for overwintering insects and other small creatures. Flowers probably self-pollinate. Seeds are dispersed by ants. Garden slugs may be attracted to wild ginger, but any slug poison used will also kill native slugs that do not harm the plant.
Substitute for: Bishop’s weed (Aegopodium podagraria).
How to propagate: From seed collected from ripe capsules in late summer, or by rooting sections of rhizome in spring or fall when plant is dormant.
Related species: Marbled wild ginger (Asarum marmoratum), with mottled leaves, is native to southwestern Oregon and northwestern California.
PLANT TYPE: Evergreen fern
SIZE: 2 feet x 2 feet
LIGHT REQUIREMENTS: Shade to mostly shade
WATER REQUIREMENTS: Medium to high
HARDINESS ZONES: 5b to 9b
A strongly textured, mostly evergreen, medium-sized fern that adds lushness to the woodland garden, as well as color—new fronds are often a coppery red in springtime. Somewhat unusual in that it produces 2 types of fronds: evergreen, sterile fronds that arch horizontally, and spore-bearing (fertile), upright fronds with more narrow leaflets. Grow this beauty next to rotting logs, stumps, and where it can be admired—at the front of shaded beds, tucked into moist rock walls, or along paths.
How big: 2 feet tall x 2 feet wide.
Sun and soil: Full shade to mostly shade. Soil needs to be rich in organic matter and kept moist.
Where it grows: Moist conifer forests, at low to middle elevations.
How to space it: 2 feet apart.
Help it thrive: Moderate summer water. Transplanting appears to cause little stress to the plant.
Associates: Sitka spruce, western hemlock, Western redcedar, red alder, noble fir, red huckleberry, thimbleberry, salal, bunchberry, foamflower, sword fern, oak fern, wild ginger, trillium, stream violet, and others.
Benefits to wildlife: Provides year-round cover for small animals and soil-dwelling creatures. Birds may use leaves as nesting material. Rabbits, deer, and elk browse the leaves, especially during winter.
Substitute for: English ivy (Hedera helix), bittersweet nightshade (Solanum dulcamara).
How to propagate: Spores, cultivated on moist soil.
Related species: Most other Blechnum species are native to tropical regions of the southern hemisphere.
PLANT TYPE: Deciduous perennial
SIZE: 3–6 feet x 3 feet
LIGHT REQUIREMENTS: Partial shade to shade
WATER REQUIREMENTS: Medium
HARDINESS ZONES: 5b to 8b
A rare, deciduous, flowering perennial with a woody rhizome. Blooms in a narrow, bottle-brush-like panicle of flowers. Leaves are dark green, compound, and coarsely lobed. Fruit is a small, poisonous follicle. Grow this woodland plant under large trees or next to tall shrubs in rich, moist soil. An uncommon species with unstable wild populations due to disturbances such as logging, fire suppression, recreation, invasive species, wild collection, and pollinator decline, it is also known as Actaea elata. Red-listed in British Columbia and a species of concern in Washington and Oregon.
How big: 3–6 feet tall x 3 feet wide.
Bloom traits: Inflorescences composed of many white to pale-pink flowers are several inches long and bloom from early to late summer. Fruit is a flattened follicle containing many seeds.
Sun and soil: Partial shade to full shade; flowers better with dappled sunlight during spring. Best in slightly acidic, well-drained, moist soil rich in organic matter.
Where it grows: Moist, shady, mature woodlands, north-facing slopes, and old-growth forest at mainly low elevations.
How to space it: 3–4 feet apart.
Help it thrive: Moderate summer water.
Associates: Douglas-fir, bigleaf and vine maple, Western redcedar, red alder, hazelnut, western sword fern, inside-out flower, oxalis, and others.
Benefits to wildlife: Flowers provide for bumblebees and other bees, syrphid flies, and beetles. Provides cover for many small forest animals.
Substitute for: Black bugbane (Cimicifuga racemosa).
How to propagate: From seed collected in late summer or fall. May self-sow but is not assertive.
Related species: Red baneberry (Actaea rubra) needs the same conditions and grows to 3 feet tall. Flower clusters are round and are followed by glossy red (or sometimes white) berries.
PLANT TYPE: Deciduous ground cover
SIZE: 4–8 inches
LIGHT REQUIREMENTS: Shade to partial shade
WATER REQUIREMENTS: Medium to high
HARDINESS ZONES: 3b to 9b
One of the most beautiful plants to grace the forest floor, this little dogwood is a perfect addition to a moist woodland garden. Bright-green, conspicuously veined leaves are sometimes evergreen and always lovely, and may turn bright shades in autumn when subjected to cold temperatures. Pincushionlike early summer flowers brighten shady areas and later offer fruits for wildlife. Grow this treasure that spreads politely to form a luxurious green carpet, with other moisture-loving plants where it can be appreciated close-up—along pathways, next to sitting areas, or near ponds or water features.
How big: 4–8 inches tall; spreads slowly by rhizomes in moist conditions.
Bloom traits: Tiny greenish-white flowers with a purple tinge grow in clusters and are surrounded by 4 much larger, creamy white, petallike bracts that fall as the fruits develop; they bloom in early to midsummer and sometimes autumn. Bunches of glossy, berrylike red fruits called drupes, each with a single seed, ripen in late summer or autumn.
Sun and soil: Full shade to partial shade in cool areas, with ample moisture throughout the year. Requires acidic soil (pH 4–5) rich in organic matter. Not very easy to establish; try growing it on or near moist stumps or down wood, as found in nature.
Where it grows: Moist forests, bogs or meadows, at low to high elevations.
How to space it: 2 feet apart.
Help it thrive: Supplemental summer water will be necessary, unless grown in a naturally moist area.
Associates: Douglas-fir, western hemlock, vine maple, red huckleberry, maidenhair fern, deer fern, woodland strawberry, false solomon’s seal, fairy bells, oxalis, and others.
Benefits to wildlife: Flowers attract bees and other insects. Fruit is eaten by birds such as thrushes, sparrows, vireos, and grouse.
Substitute for: English ivy (Hedera helix).
How to propagate: From seed collected in fall, cleaned of pulp, and planted outdoors.
Related species: Cornus canadensis is one of the parents of C. unalaschkensis but has a smaller range in the Northwest. Its extremely slight differences make cultivation the same.
PLANT TYPE: Deciduous perennial
SIZE: 3–4 feet x 3–4 feet
LIGHT REQUIREMENTS: Shade to mostly shade
WATER REQUIREMENTS: Medium
HARDINESS ZONES: 7b to 9b
The darling of the moist woodland set, this deciduous perennial is delicate in texture and lush in form. Lacy foliage of the freshest green adorns hollow stems. Tall inflorescences of enchanting pink flowers bloom in spring and early summer. An exquisite choice for the understory in cool, moist, shaded woodland gardens. If conditions are adequate, will spread slowly by rhizomes to form large colonies. This plant is Blue-listed (at risk) in British Columbia.
How big: 3–4 feet tall x 3–4 feet wide.
Bloom traits: Spurred, deep-pink to lavender-pink flowers bloom in late spring to early summer. Fruit is a pear-shaped capsule that encloses small black seeds.
Sun and soil: Full shade to mostly shade. Moist soil rich in organic matter.
Where it grows: Cool, moist woodlands near streams and shaded roadside ditches, at low to middle elevations.
How to space it: 3–4 feet apart.
Help it thrive: Moderate summer water.
Associates: Sitka spruce, western hemlock, Western redcedar, bigleaf maple, red alder, red elderberry, salmonberry, western maidenhair fern, deer fern, and others.
Benefits to wildlife: Flowers attract bees and butterflies. Seeds are eaten by birds such as song sparrows and finches.
Substitute for: Bittersweet nightshade (Solanum dulcamara), nonnative, garden-variety corydalis.
How to propagate: From seed collected when capsules are dry (but before they explode!), and planted outdoors.
Related species: Golden corydalis (Corydalis aurea) is a biennial that needs similar conditions.
PLANT TYPE: Deciduous perennial
SIZE: 2–5 feet x 1–2 feet
LIGHT REQUIREMENTS: Shade to partial shade
WATER REQUIREMENTS: Medium
HARDINESS ZONES: 6b to 9b
An old-fashioned charmer, this deciduous perennial is upright and has large, deeply dissected leaves. Showy, deep-blue flowers bloom along tall spikes, creating a colorful show in late spring. Perfect in moist, shady, cottage gardens, perennial borders, or woodland gardens, or near ponds or streams. All larkspurs are toxic if ingested.
How big: 2–5 feet tall x 1–2 feet wide.
Bloom traits: Deep-blue and white, spurred flowers bloom in late spring to early summer. Fruit is a follicle that encloses winged, dark brown seeds.
Sun and soil: Full shade to partial shade. Moist soil rich in organic matter.
Where it grows: Moist forests and along streams, at low to middle elevations in southern Washington and Oregon.
How to space it: 1–2 feet apart.
Help it thrive: Moderate summer water.
Associates: Indian plum, snowberry, red baneberry, fairy bells, foamflower, fringecup, woodland strawberry, and others.
Benefits to wildlife: Flowers are very attractive to native bees, hummingbirds, and butterflies. Seed-eating birds may consume the seeds.
Substitute for: Bittersweet nightshade (Solanum dulcamara).
How to propagate: From seed collected when follicles dry and planted outdoors in fall; protect from slugs. Stems are fragile, so use extreme care when transplanting. May hybridize with other delphiniums.
Related species: Sierra larkspur (Delphinium glaucum) grows at middle to high elevations. Nuttall’s larkspur (D. nuttallii) is on the watch list in Washington.
PLANT TYPE: Deciduous perennial
SIZE: 8–16 inches
LIGHT REQUIREMENTS: Partial shade to shade
WATER REQUIREMENTS: Medium
HARDINESS ZONES: 7a to 9b
With delicate, finely divided foliage and puffy little flowers, this succulent perennial ground cover will steal your heart. Be careful in small gardens, though: With rich soil and enough moisture, this assertive little charmer tends to take all the space it can get and may shade out perennials that don’t appear until later in spring. Makes an enchanting carpet under trees, shrubs, and taller perennials.
How big: 8–16 inches tall; spreads by rhizomes.
Bloom traits: Heart-shaped pink flowers with little spurs bloom in leafless stems from early spring to midsummer. Fruits are slender capsules that contain a few black seeds.
Sun and soil: Partial shade to full shade. Moist, light soil rich in organic matter.
Where it grows: Moist forests, ravines, and along streams, at low to middle elevations.
How to space it: 2 feet apart.
Help it thrive: Moderate summer water.
Associates: Western hemlock, Douglas-fir, bigleaf and vine maples, Indian plum, red-twig dogwood, salmonberry, false solomon’s seal, fairy bells, Scouler’s corydalis, sword fern, western maidenhair fern, and others.
Benefits to wildlife: Flowers attract insects like bees and bee flies. Host plant for clodius parnassian butterfly larvae. Ants are lured to seeds with a fatty substance to assist seed dispersal.
Substitute for: Herb Robert (Geranium robertianum), yellow archangel (Lamiastrum galeobdolon).
How to propagate: From seed collected when capsules are ripe and planted outdoors in fall, or by division of rhizomes in early spring.
Related species: Dutchman’s breeches (Dicentra cucullaria) has spring-blooming white to pale-pink flowers with yellow tips; it occurs in northwest Oregon and southern Washington near the Columbia River.
PLANT TYPE: Deciduous fern
SIZE: 1 foot tall
LIGHT REQUIREMENTS: Shade
WATER REQUIREMENTS: Low to medium
HARDINESS ZONES: 3b to 9b
Delicate in appearance, this low, deciduous fern forms a lush carpet in mostly shady conditions. Soft green fronds unfurl in the cool of early spring. Grow this lovely ground cover under shade trees, at the edge of woodland gardens, or near streams and other moist places.
How big: 1 foot tall; spreads slowly.
Sun and soil: Mostly shade to full shade. Moist to somewhat dry soil, acidic (pH 5–6.5) and rich in organic matter.
Where it grows: Cool, shady forests and along streams at low to middle elevations.
How to space it: 2–4 feet apart.
Help it thrive: Moderate summer water until established. Will do best with occasional water afterward, but can take some drought once established.
Associates: Alder, vine maple, red-twig dogwood, twinberry, devil’s club, highbush cranberry, thimbleberry, star-flowered false solomon’s seal, bunchberry, stream violet, and others.
Benefits to wildlife: Provides food and cover for small birds, mammals, and other wild animals.
Substitute for: Yellow archangel (Lamiastrum galeobdolon).
How to propagate: Spores scattered on moist soil.
Related species: Western oak fern (Gymnocarpium disjunctum) has larger leaves and needs similar conditions.
PLANT TYPE: Evergreen low shrub
SIZE: 2 feet x 2 feet
LIGHT REQUIREMENTS: Shade to mostly shade
WATER REQUIREMENTS: Low
HARDINESS ZONES: 5a to 9b
A low, handsome evergreen shrub with thick leaves on foot-long branches that grow in a rosette. Flower stalks rise above foliage and put on a showy display from early to late spring, followed by berries that ripen to a deep, dusty blue. Older foliage may turn burgundy during the cold months. A popular horticulture plant for nearly 200 years, it makes a wonderful addition to dry woodland settings, especially when grown en masse or among ferns in shaded borders. Though slow to establish, it will eventually form a colorful, dense ground cover over many years.
How big: 2 feet tall x 2 feet wide; spreads very slowly by rhizomes.
Bloom traits: 8-inch-long panicles of fragrant, yellow flowers begin blooming in early spring. Fruits are deep blue, tart, edible berries that ripen in late summer to fall.
Sun and soil: Full shade to mostly shade. Moist to dry soil rich in organic matter.
Where it grows: Moist to dry forests, at low to middle elevations.
How to space it: 2–3 feet apart.
Help it thrive: Supplemental summer water may be beneficial in hot areas. Spreading is easily controlled by root pruning if necessary.
Associates: Douglas-fir, western hemlock, redwood, Garry oak, madrone, oceanspray, Pacific rhododendron, Indian plum, vine maple, salal, Oregon boxwood, sword fern, vanilla leaf, oxalis, and many more.
Benefits to wildlife: Flowers attract Anna’s hummingbirds, bees, and painted lady butterflies. Host species for brown elfin butterfly larvae. Berries are eaten by birds such as towhees, robins, sparrows, and waxwings. Browse species for deer and elk. Provides cover for small birds, mammals, and other wildlife.
Substitute for: English ivy (Hedera helix), lesser celandine (Ranunculus ficaria).
How to propagate: From seed collected from fruit in late summer, cleaned of pulp, and planted outdoors.
Related species: Low Oregon grape (Mahonia repens) is another evergreen spreader that grows to about 3 feet tall. It is perfect for dry, shady conditions and can take some sun.
PLANT TYPE: Deciduous perennial
SIZE: 3–5 inches
LIGHT REQUIREMENTS: Shade to mostly shade
WATER REQUIREMENTS: Low to medium
HARDINESS ZONES: 7a to 9b
This low understory plant forms lush carpets in moist to dry woodlands with cloverlike leaves. White to pink flowers peek out from soft, dark foliage that may fold inward at night and in sunlight. Plant this charming woodlander and pollinator plant if you want fairly quick ground cover that will keep weeds at bay in shady places where it won’t be walked on. May be most suitable in large gardens, or where it can be contained due to its enthusiastic growth. This plant is a species of concern in British Columbia.
How big: 3–5 inches tall; spreads readily by rhizomes.
Bloom traits: 5-petaled pink or white flowers bloom on short stems from midspring to midsummer. Fruit is a capsule.
Sun and soil: Full shade to mostly shade. Moist, acidic (pH 5–6.5) soil rich in organic matter preferred; can tolerate drought in full shade.
Where it grows: Moist shady forests and drier open or shrubby areas, at low to middle elevations.
How to space it: 1–3 feet apart for quick coverage.
Help it thrive: Moderate summer water preferred. Spread may be controlled by less than optimal conditions.
Associates: Douglas-fir, redwood, huckleberries, goatsbeard, false solomon’s seal, Cascade Oregon grape, sword fern, western maidenhair fern, Scouler’s corydalis, fairy lantern, trillium, and others.
Benefits to wildlife: Flowers attract many native bees, syrphid flies, and butterflies. Seeds may be eaten by seed-eating birds like sparrows and juncos, as well as small rodents. Rabbits may browse on foliage. Plants provide shelter for insects and other small creatures.
Substitute for: Yellow archangel (Lamiastrum galeobdolon), periwinkle (Vinca minor).
How to propagate: From seed collected in summer or fall, or by division of rhizomes in early spring or fall.
Related species: Western yellow oxalis (Oxalis suksdorfii) has bright-yellow flowers, occurs in southwestern Washington and south into Oregon at low elevations, and spreads much more slowly. It is listed as a sensitive species in Washington. Trillium-leaved sorrel (O. trilliifolia) has clusters of white or pale pink flowers.
PLANT TYPE: Deciduous perennial
SIZE: 1–2 feet x 2 feet
LIGHT REQUIREMENTS: Partial shade
WATER REQUIREMENTS: Medium
HARDINESS ZONES: 7a to 9b
A charming, uncommon, deciduous, woodland perennial with lush, finely divided compound leaves in ladderlike arrangements. Lovely 5-petaled flowers bloom from late spring through mid- or late summer. Grow this plant with other partly shaded perennials in borders, cottage or woodland gardens, moist rock gardens, or near a stream or pond. Listed as a threatened species in Washington. Wild populations are threatened by grazing, logging, and pesticide use.
How big: 1–2 feet tall x 2 feet wide.
Bloom traits: Pale-peach, yellow, or lavender cup-shaped flowers bloom in loose clusters at the tips of stems in late spring to midsummer. Fruit is a small 3-celled capsule with several seeds.
Sun and soil: Mostly shade to partial shade. Thrives in moist, well-drained soil, rich in organic matter.
Where it grows: Moist, open forests and woodlands, prairie edges, roadsides, and along streams, at low to middle elevations in Oregon and Washington.
How to space it: 2 feet apart.
Help it thrive: Moderate summer water. May be somewhat drought tolerant in cool areas.
Associates: Serviceberry, western white anemone, false solomon’s seal, tall bugbane, fairy bells, woodland strawberry, and others.
Benefits to wildlife: Flowers attract bees, butterflies, and bee flies, and birds may eat the seeds.
Substitute for: Bachelor’s button (Centaurea cyanus).
How to propagate: From seed collected in late summer and planted outdoors soon afterward; may self-sow.
Related species: Showy Jacob’s-ladder (Polemonium pulcherrimum) grows to about 1 foot tall, with fragrant blue flowers; it tolerates more sun and is hardier (zones 3b to 9b).
PLANT TYPE: Summer deciduous fern
SIZE: 10–16 inches
LIGHT REQUIREMENTS: Shade to partial shade
WATER REQUIREMENTS: Low to medium
HARDINESS ZONES: 7a to 9b
This attractive, versatile fern stays green during the fall and winter months and dies back in spring. Spreading by rhizomes that taste like licorice, it has fronds that usually reach about 1 foot long. Often found growing on the bark of mature maples, it is also appropriate around mossy rocks and logs, where it is quite drought tolerant. Tuck it into shaded rock gardens and next to moist down wood for a winter splash of greenery.
How big: 10–16 inches tall; spreads slowly by rhizomes.
Sun and soil: Full shade to partial shade. Moist, rich soil is best, but can tolerate drought in full shade once established.
Where it grows: Moist shady forests and drier, rocky, open areas at low to middle elevations.
How to space it: 2–3 feet apart.
Help it thrive: Keep slightly moist year round, especially in hot areas.
Associates: Bigleaf maple, Douglas-fir, Garry oak, madrone, red-twig dogwood, red-flowering currant, salal, Indian plum, false solomon’s seal, fairy bells, Cascade Oregon grape, sword fern, vanilla leaf, wild ginger, foamflower, inside-out flower, trillium, and others.
Benefits to wildlife: Flowers attract many native bees, syrphid flies, and butterflies. Seeds may be eaten by birds like sparrows and juncos, as well as small rodents. Rabbits may browse on foliage. Plants provide shelter for insects and other small creatures.
Substitute for: Herb Robert (Geranium robertianum).
How to propagate: By spores, or rhizome division in spring or fall of nonwild specimens.
Related species: Western polypody (Polypodium hesperium) begins its growth in the spring, has shorter fronds, and is perfect for rock gardens and nooks and crannies of stone walls.
PLANT TYPE: Deciduous perennial
SIZE: 2–3 feet x 2–3 feet
LIGHT REQUIREMENTS: Partial shade to shade
WATER REQUIREMENTS: Medium
HARDINESS ZONES: 3b to 9b
This graceful deciduous woodland perennial, related to lilies, has soft green leaves and stems. Dainty, white bell-shaped flowers dangle from stem tips for many weeks, under leaves that protect them from rain. Also known as Disporum smithii, this is an excellent choice for moist woodland gardens or shaded perennial beds.
How big: 2–3 feet tall x 2–3 feet wide.
Bloom traits: Flowers are pendant, soft-white bells with 6 petallike tepals that often bloom in pairs. Fruits are brilliant orange to red oval berries that ripen in late summer.
Sun and soil: Partial shade to full shade. Moist soil rich in organic matter.
Where it grows: Shady, moist woodlands, at low to middle elevations.
How to space it: 3 feet apart.
Help it thrive: Although somewhat tolerant of drought once established, it does best with some summer water.
Associates: Douglas-fir, Western redcedar, Pacific rhododendron, evergreen huckleberry, sword fern, deer fern, vanilla leaf, Columbian larkspur, oxalis, small-flowered alumroot, evergreen violet, and others.
Benefits to wildlife: Flowers attract bees and other pollinators. Fruit is eaten by squirrels, chipmunks, and birds like robins and towhees. Plants provide shelter for insects and other small creatures.
Substitute for: Bittersweet nightshade (Solanum dulcamara).
How to propagate: From seed collected from berries in late summer or fall, cleaned of pulp and planted outdoors soon afterward, or by rhizome division in early spring; may self-sow.
Related species: Equally enchanting, Hooker’s fairy bells (Prosartes hookeri) has fuzzy leaves and stems, and white bell-shaped flowers that nod at stem tips.
PLANT TYPE: Evergreen shrub
SIZE: 10–20 feet x 10 feet
LIGHT REQUIREMENTS: Partial shade to shade
WATER REQUIREMENTS: Medium
HARDINESS ZONES: 7a to 9b
A large, evergreen shrub with an upright, open, spreading habit. Leaves are deep green, oblong, and leathery. The state flower of Washington, it offers a spectacular floral display for several months that rivals that of hybridized rhododendrons. Grows well in acidic soils in dappled shade under tall trees. May be toxic if ingested.
How big: 10–20 feet tall x 10 feet wide; may form a thicket.
Bloom traits: Showy, pale-pink to deep-magenta flower clusters occur at branch tips from late spring to midsummer.
Sun and soil: Partial shade to full shade; will produce more blossoms with some sun. Prefers moist, well-drained, moderately to slightly acidic soil (pH 4.5–6.5) high in organic matter, but may tolerate nutrient-poor soils.
Where it grows: Moist to dry forest margins, from sea level to middle elevations.
How to space it: 10–15 feet apart. Useful for erosion control.
Help it thrive: Summer water until established (2–5 years); will do best with some summer water afterward, especially in hot areas. Prune only to remove dead or broken branches; do not shear.
Associates: Douglas-fir, hemlock, redwood, salal, red elderberry, evergreen huckleberry, beargrass, sword ferns, inside-out flower, and other woodland plants.
Benefits to wildlife: Flowers provide for hummingbirds, bumblebees, and other insects. Seeds are eaten by birds. Plants offer nest sites for birds and cover for many animals.
Substitute for: English laurel (Prunus laurocerasus), Portugal laurel (Prunus lusitanica), English hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna).
How to propagate: From seed harvested in fall or cuttings in summer or fall.
Related species: The stunning western azalea (Rhododendron occidentale) grows to 10 feet tall and has very fragrant white to pink-and-yellow flowers that bloom from late spring to midsummer; it needs some sun and occurs in southwestern Oregon. Cascade rhododendron (R. albiflorum) grows to 6 feet tall, with creamy white flowers from early to late summer, at middle to high elevations. Both species may be difficult to establish.
PLANT TYPE: Perennial
SIZE: 1–3 feet x 1–3 feet
LIGHT REQUIREMENTS: Full shade to partial shade
WATER REQUIREMENTS: Medium
HARDINESS ZONES: 6b to 9b
The large, showy, fragrant plumelike flower clusters of this deciduous perennial brighten up shady woodlands. Arching 1- to 3-foot stems are graceful and slightly zigzagged. Grow this jewel in shaded woodland settings or under large trees. Also known as Maianthemum racemosum.
How big: 1–3 feet tall x 1–3 feet wide; spreads slowly by rhizomes.
Bloom traits: Large, branched panicles of fragrant, small white flowers bloom in spring to early summer. Fruit is a translucent berry with 1 to 2 seeds that turns from green to red in late summer to early fall. Edible, but with a bitter aftertaste.
Sun and soil: Full shade to partial shade; plants will be stunted with too much sun. Prefers moderately acidic soil (pH 5–6.5) with abundant organic matter. Does best with summer moisture, but will tolerate slightly dry conditions in cool areas.
Where it grows: Moist forests, ravines, and near streams at low to middle elevations.
How to space it: 2 feet apart.
Help it thrive: Summer water, especially in hot areas.
Associates: Western hemlock, Douglas-fir, Western redcedar, vine maple, goatsbeard, corydalis, maidenhair fern, sword fern, piggyback plant, bleeding heart, oxalis, trillium, vanilla leaf, and others.
Benefits to wildlife: Flowers are pollinated by a variety of small bees, flies, and beetles that collect or feed on pollen. Berries may be eaten by woodland birds and small rodents. Foliage is browsed occasionally by deer.
Substitute for: Bittersweet nightshade (Solanum dulcamara), arum (arum italicum).
How to propagate: From seed collected in late summer or fall and planted in shady conditions outdoors before they dry out; may take 2 years to germinate. Or by rhizome division in fall or early spring.
Related species: Star-flowered false solomon’s seal (Smilacina stellata) is a more diminutive, slowly spreading ground cover to 1 foot tall, with clusters of small, white starlike flowers in spring and early summer.
Related species Smilacina stellata
PLANT TYPE: Deciduous perennial
SIZE: 8–14 inches x 10–14 inches
LIGHT REQUIREMENTS: Shade to mostly shade
WATER REQUIREMENTS: Medium
HARDINESS ZONES: 5a to 9b
A delightful little woodland perennial with hairy, prominently veined green leaves divided into 3 leaflets. Sprays of delicate, tiny white to pale-pink flowers bloom for a very long period on leafy stems. Grow this charming plant en masse throughout a woodland garden, along shaded steps and pathways, or near ponds or streams.
How big: 8–14 inches tall x 10–14 inches wide; spreads very slowly by rhizomes.
Bloom traits: Panicles of white to very pale pink flowers bloom from late spring through late summer. Fruit is a capsule containing several seeds.
Sun and soil: Full shade to mostly shade. Moist, well-draining soil high in organic matter. Can handle drought only in cool areas.
Where it grows: Moist coniferous forests and along shaded streams, at low to middle elevations.
How to space it: 1 foot apart.
Help it thrive: Does best with some summer water, especially in hot areas.
Associates: Douglas-fir, western hemlock, Western redcedar, Sitka spruce, Pacific silver fir, vine maple, red elderberry, oceanspray, Pacific rhododendron, baldhip rose, sword fern, Cascade Oregon grape, salal, beargrass, and others.
Benefits to wildlife: Flowers provide nectar and pollen for bees and other insects. Seeds are eaten by birds. Plants provide shelter for insects and other small creatures.
Substitute for: Yellow archangel (Lamiastrum galeobdolon).
How to propagate: From seed collected in summer or fall when ripe and planted in fall or early spring, or by division of rhizomes in fall or spring.
Related species: Cutleaf foamflower (Tiarella trifoliata var. laciniata) has finely divided leaves and a smaller natural range. One-leaf foamflower (Tiarella t. var. unifoliata) has undivided palmate leaves and is native to middle to high elevations. Both species’ ranges overlap somewhat with that of Tiarella t. var. trifoliata.
PLANT TYPE: Semi-evergreen perennial
SIZE: 1 foot x 1 foot
LIGHT REQUIREMENTS: Partial shade to shade
WATER REQUIREMENTS: Medium
HARDINESS ZONES: 5b to 9b
This attractive, semi-evergreen woodland plant has fuzzy, scalloped leaves. Flowering stems with intriguing, graceful little flowers rise above the whorl of basal leaves and bloom throughout summer. Little plantlets may form on top of older leaves near their base. As falling autumn leaves and gravity press them to the soil, they take root; hence the common name. Grow it in a woodland setting for a wonderful ground cover, or tuck it into mostly shaded rock gardens or rock walls. May be grown in pots or even as houseplants.
How big: 1 foot tall x 1 feet wide; spreads very slowly by rhizomes.
Bloom traits: Flower stalks produce burgundy-chocolate colored blossoms from late spring into summer. Fruit is a capsule containing spiny seeds.
Sun and soil: Full to partial shade. Moist, well-drained soil rich in organic matter.
Where it grows: Moist forests, cliffs, and near streams, at low to middle elevations.
How to space it: 1–2 feet apart.
Help it thrive: Does best with some summer water, especially in hot areas.
Associates: Douglas-fir, western hemlock, Western redcedar, bigleaf and vine maple, red alder, salal, thimbleberry, trillium, false solomon’s seal, lady fern, maidenhair fern, oxalis, and others.
Benefits to wildlife: Flowers provide pollen and nectar for bees and other insects. Plants provide shelter for insects and other small creatures.
Substitute for: Periwinkle (Vinca minor or V. major), lesser celandine (Ranunculus ficaria).
How to propagate: From seed collected in autumn and planted outdoors, or perhaps more enjoyably by leaf propagules: detach a mature leaf with a little plantlet growing on top and press it into moist soil. Rhizomes may also be divided in spring.
Related species: This plant has no close relatives.
PLANT TYPE: Perennial bulb
SIZE: 1–2 feet x 1–2 feet
LIGHT REQUIREMENTS: Shade to mostly shade
WATER REQUIREMENTS: Medium
HARDINESS ZONES: 4a to 9b
Nothing says spring quite like trillium, and of the 5 species that grow in the region, this one is the most widespread and unmistakeable. Large white flowers—which should not be picked—bloom throughout spring above a whorl of 3 broad green leaves. Dormancy begins as summer approaches. Grow this lovely perennial in a shady or woodland setting, where it hopefully will self-sow to create a drift of indescribable elegance.
How big: 1–2 feet tall x 1–2 feet wide.
Bloom traits: Large white flowers bloom on short stems (called peduncles) from early to late spring, depending on elevation. Petals age to pink or burgundy. Fruit is a fleshy yellow capsule.
Sun and soil: Full shade to mostly shade. Moist, well-drained soil rich in organic matter, slightly acidic (pH 5–6.5).
Where it grows: In cool, moist forests and near shaded streams, at low to middle elevations.
How to space it: 1–2 feet apart.
Help it thrive: Can withstand minor droughts during summer dormancy but occasional supplemental summer water will sustain it. Don’t transplant mature trilliums unless the need is dire.
Associates: Grand fir, Sitka spruce, Douglas-fir, Western redcedar, western hemlock, coast redwood, bigleaf maple, red alder, Pacific rhododendron, sword fern, salal, vanilla leaf, oxalis, and more.
Benefits to wildlife: Seeds are dispersed by ants. Birds and mammals eat the fruit.
Substitute for: Lesser celandine (Ranunculus ficaria).
How to propagate: From seed collected when capsules begin to open in summer and sown in deep containers that are kept moist and left outdoors.
Related species: Giant white trillium (Trillium albidum) has fragrant flowers and often has mottled leaves. The delicate brook trillium (T. rivale) has white petals spotted with purple and occurs only in southwestern Oregon and northwestern California, along with the uncommon giant purple trillium (T. kurabayashii), an exciting and colorful addition. Small-flowered trillium (T. parviflorum), native in southwestern Washington and northwestern Oregon, isn’t quite as showy but is unusual and fragrant.
Related species Trillium kurabyashii
PLANT TYPE: Deciduous shrub
SIZE: 5–10 feet x 5–10 feet
LIGHT REQUIREMENTS: Partial shade to shade
WATER REQUIREMENTS: Medium
HARDINESS ZONES: 4a to 9b
An open, upright, deciduous shrub with oval, light-green leaves growing on angular, twiggy stems. Spring-blooming greenish-pink flowers are followed by brilliant red berries in mid- to late summer. Grow this lovely, graceful shrub in a woodland garden, preferably in close contact with decaying logs or stumps, which is how it is nearly always found in nature.
How big: 5–10 feet tall x 5–10 feet wide.
Bloom traits: Single, small, inconspicuous greenish-pink flowers bloom from midspring to early summer. Late-summer-ripening berries are bright red and edible, but tart.
Sun and soil: Partial shade to full shade. Moist, acidic soil rich in organic matter and decaying wood.
Where it grows: Moist, coniferous coastal forests and mixed evergreen forests, at low to middle elevations.
How to space it: 5–10 feet apart.
Help it thrive: Moderate summer water, especially during hot periods. Established plants do not respond well to transplantation.
Associates: Incense cedar, Pacific madrone, Douglas-fir, Western redcedar, western hemlock, red alder, salal, thimbleberry, bunchberry, oak fern, wild ginger, and others.
Benefits to wildlife: Flowers provide nectar for hummingbirds, bees, and other insects. Berries are consumed by many birds, including flickers, jays, thrushes, chickadees, towhees, and bluebirds. Many mammals, including deer mice, white-footed mice, raccoons, pikas, ground squirrels, chipmunks, foxes, and squirrels, also eat the berries. Important browse species for mountain beavers, deer, and elk. May form dense thickets that provide shelter or nesting sites for many small birds and mammals.
Substitute for: Himalayan blackberry (Rubus discolor).
How to propagate: From seed removed from berries in late summer or fall and sown outdoors, ground layering in spring, or by stem cuttings in spring; may self-sow.
Related species: Black huckleberry (Vaccinium membranaceum) has berries with spectacular taste, needs the same conditions, and typically grows to 6 feet tall and wide.
PLANT TYPE: Deciduous perennial
SIZE: 12–16 inches
LIGHT REQUIREMENTS: Shade to mostly shade
WATER REQUIREMENTS: Low to medium
HARDINESS ZONES: 7a to 9b
This deciduous perennial has airy leaflets, shaped like a duck’s footprint, that are a refreshing bright green in springtime. Nodding, delicate white flowers that appear to be turned inside-out arise from leafless stems and bloom for several months. Makes a lovely ground cover beneath tall trees or shrubs or other shaded areas.
How big: 12–16 inches tall; spreads slowly by rhizomes.
Bloom traits: White blossoms that resemble shooting stars grow on smooth stalks from leafless stems in late spring to early summer. Fruit is a follicle containing small black seeds.
Sun and soil: Full shade to partial shade. Moist to occasionally dry soil, rich in organic matter.
Where it grows: Moist, shady wooded sites and forest edges, at low to middle elevations.
How to space it: 2–3 feet apart.
Help it thrive: Drought tolerant once established, but does best with some summer water, especially in hot areas.
Associates: Douglas-fir, red elderberry, vine maple, evergreen huckleberry, red huckleberry, tall bugbane, goatsbeard, ferns, trillium, and others.
Benefits to wildlife: Provides cover and seeds for birds and other small animals. May be pollinated by bees, ants, or wasps.
Substitute for: English ivy (Hedera helix).
How to propagate: From seed collected in summer and kept warm and dry until fall, when they are planted outdoors, or by division of rhizomes in early spring.
Related species: Two other species occur naturally in southwestern Oregon but may be difficult to find and grow: Redwood inside-out flower (Vancouveria planipetala), is shorter; yellow inside-out flower (V. chrysantha), a species of concern in Josephine and Curry Counties in Oregon, has yellow flowers.
PLANT TYPE: Evergreen fern
SIZE: 4–6 feet x 6–8 feet
LIGHT REQUIREMENTS: Shade to mostly shade
WATER REQUIREMENTS: Medium
HARDINESS ZONES: 6a to 9b
The North American version of a tree fern, this exquisitely textured, very large fern usually stays evergreen. Growing up to 10 feet tall in the wild, it typically grows to about half that in garden settings. Under favorable conditions it forms large clumps that make a stunning and vividly green addition to moist, mostly shady places. Tolerates salt spray. Classified as a species of concern in British Columbia and a sensitive species in Washington, it is threatened by invasive species, logging, and wild collection.
How big: 4–6 feet tall x 6–8 feet wide.
Bloom traits: Spore-bearing sori are oval and located end to end, parallel to the underside of the midrib of the leaflets, resembling a chain.
Sun and soil: Full shade to mostly shade. Moist soil rich in organic matter. Can handle some sun with adequate moisture.
Where it grows: In moist forests, shaded coastal bluffs, and along streams and springs, at low to middle elevations.
How to space it: 4–6 feet apart.
Help it thrive: Moderate summer water. Easily overcome by invasive species and even some native species such as western sword ferns, so provide some protection.
Associates: Redwood, vine maple, huckleberries, baneberry, oak fern, wild ginger, trillium, oxalis, and others.
Benefits to wildlife: Provides year-round cover, food, and nesting material to birds and other animals.
Substitute for: Japanese aralia (Fatsia japonica).
How to propagate: Spores, or very careful clump division of cultivated plants in early spring. May self-sow under optimal conditions.
Related species: Two other Woodwardia species occur in North America, but neither is found in the Pacific Northwest.
Male catkins of coast silk tassel bush (Garrya elliptica) in winter. G. elliptica—and G. fremontii, which occurs over a wider range—can be used in large hedgerows.