I used to have assorted hostas--Sum and Substance, Elegans, Frances Williams, Big Mammoth, Gold Standard, Great Expectations, Krossa Regal, Abiqua Drinking Gourd, etc.--planted around tree trunks in continuing shade beds throughout the yard. Finally I realized that each year they were smaller as they were gradually attacked and strangled by large tree roots below.
Now I have planted occasional rhododendrons, cypruses and false cypruses interspersed with container grown hostas. For grown covers and perennials so far I have used mostly astilbes, carex, vinca minor, trillium, Canadian ginger, daylillies, irises, and ferns.
What I would love to see--if possible--are pictures of some of your shade gardens identifying the plants used? It is perplexing for me to see gardens that have just exactly the perfect plants when those perfect plants are unlabeled.
Any takers?
Cynthia
