19 Plants That Handle Both Shade and Rain in Pacific Northwest Yards

live on in thePacific Northwestmeans learning to garden incool temps , frequent rain , and lots ofdappled shade . While the exuberant green landscape painting is stunning , not all plant are up for the challenge of boom beneath mirky skies and damp soil .

These 19 plants aretrue regional champions — they actuallyprefer shady , moist environments , stool them complete for yards in areas likeSeattle , Portland , or anywhere the moss grows thick . From bold ferns to upbeat flowering ground pass over , they ’ll bring life to even your darkest garden corners .

With theseshade - eff , rain - happy picks , you could turn your swampy yard into athriving timberland oasis , no sunshine require .

19 Plants That Handle Both Shade and Rain in Pacific Northwest Yards

Sword Fern

know for its robust , arching frond , the Sword Fern is a staple fiber in many Pacific Northwest gardens . These evergreens unfurl their frond in a classifiable sword - alike shape , providing a lush backdrop throughout the year . In dimly lit corner , they call forth a sense of deep woodland repose .

The Sword Fern thrives in moist , well - drain grime and is fantastically liberal of weighty rainfall . Its power to retain its vivacious green chromaticity even in the deepness of winter stool it a worthful plus . To maintain its vigor , simple seasonal pruning is all it needs , making it a small - maintenance choice .

Hosta

celebrate for their broad and various foliage , Hostas are the unknown grinder of shade gardens . Their leaves come in an raiment of color , from deep blue - greens to vibrant variegated patterns , add visual interest where it ’s postulate most .

Hostas wave in shady , damp areas , absorbing the abundant Pacific Northwest rain to conserve their lush appearance . These plant life are ideal for adding grain and structure beneath grandiloquent trees . Due to their hardy nature , they can withstand the realm ’s winter thrill , emerge each springiness with reincarnate vigour .

Japanese Maple

With its lacy leaves and graceful physique , the Japanese Maple is a stunning focal point in any shaded garden . Its leaves , which change from green to glorious red or orange in fall , provide a striking contrast against the verdant backdrop .

These Tree are well - suit to the rainy Pacific Northwest , as they favor moist , well - drained soil and can tolerate partial shade . Their graceful outgrowth offer a year - rotund ocular prayer , making them a timeless addition to any landscape . Pruning helps maintain their shape and encourages good for you increase .

Bleeding Heart

decorate with marrow - mould blossoms , the Bleeding Heart add together a jot of whimsy to the garden . Its arching stem carry wrangle of soft pink and whitened flowers , resemble a drawing string of hearts rock lightly in the child’s play .

Perfect for shaded domain , this plant flourish in the moist , productive soils typical of the Pacific Northwest . It enjoys coolheaded temperatures and can tolerate heavy rainfall , clear it an ideal option for timber garden . Once found , it requires minimal care , delighting nurseryman each spring with its enchanting efflorescence .

Ferns of Maidenhair

The Maidenhair Fern is synonymous with elegance , featuring fan - shaped fronds that flutter graciously in the breeze . Its delicate bodily structure belies a surprisingly robust nature , perfectly suitable to the Pacific Northwest climate .

This fern thrives in the shade and adores the region ’s high humidness and frequent rainfall . It requires consistently damp soil , making it an excellent option for damp , low - Inner Light areas . As a bonus , it add a soupcon of sophistication to any garden . Regular lacrimation and occasional trimming keep this fern in prime condition .

Coral Bells

Coral ship’s bell are notable for their sensational foliage , available in a spectrum of colors , from deep Bourgogne to pictorial lime . These hardy perennials add together a soda pop of coloring material to shaded gardens , contrasting attractively with more muted greens .

In the Pacific Northwest , Coral Bells prosper in the fly-by-night , moist conditions provided by the frequent rainfall . They opt well - drain soil and can handle the realm ’s cooler temperature with easiness . Their versatility prepare them a wondrous earth natural covering , and they ’re especially eye - catching when found en masse .

Astilbe

Astilbes are celebrated for their feathery plume of flowers that ascend above fern - like foliation . These perennials bring grain and vibrant hues , ranging from soft pinks to productive purples , brightening shaded areas .

absolutely conform to the Pacific Northwest ’s pissed climate , Astilbes thrive in moist , shaded localization . They have it away the abundant rain and require little maintenance once found . Regular watering and a bit of mulch help them flourish . Their rosiness attract pollinators , adding an ecological welfare to their aesthetic appeal .

Japanese Forest Grass

Japanese Forest Grass adds move and elegance with its cascading golden - green steel . This decorative pasturage thrive in shady spots , providing a graceful contrast to bolder plants .

In the Pacific Northwest , it enjoys the moist , fertile conditions and can withstand the region ’s frequent rain . While it prefer consistent moisture , it is surprisingly low - maintenance , requiring minimal attention beyond occasional trimming . Its mild grain and gentle sway bring a comfort , zen - corresponding quality to gardens .

Lady’s Mantle

Lady ’s Mantle is cherish for its scalloped leaves that becharm rain droplets like tiny jewels . This perennial adds a gentle , amorous touch to shaded garden .

expand in the cool , smashed mood of the Pacific Northwest , Lady ’s Mantle opt well - drain yet damp soil . It is a versatile works that can fill gaps between larger shrubs and tree diagram , offer a delicate backdrop with its chartreuse blooms . Its resiliency and easy concern make it a favorite among gardeners looking for true beauty .

Hellebore

hellebore , often called the “ Christmas Rose , ” blossom when piddling else does , showcasing their enamor peak in tardy wintertime to other spring . Their muted colors , from tusk to purple , take subtle beauty to shaded area .

In the Pacific Northwest , they thrive under canopy in rich , moist soil , benefiting from the gentle rains . Once established , they require minimum upkeep , rewarding gardener with long - live on bloom . This perennial is not only a optic delight but also deer - repellent , making it a practical alternative for many gardens .

Heather

Heather is a magical ground cover , known for its cornucopia of tiny blooms that paint the garden in shades of purple , pink , or white . Its evergreen plant foliage adds class - one shot interest , even in the grim corners .

This dauntless industrial plant thrives in the Pacific Northwest ’s acidic , well - drain soils , enjoying the frequent pelting and occasional sun break . Heather need piddling maintenance beyond pruning to encourage bushy growth . Its ability to attract pollinators adds ecological time value , making it a profits - profits for gardeners and wildlife alike .

Toad Lily

Toad Lilies bring an alien flair to shaded gardens with their orchid - like flowers , bespeckle in intricate rule . Blooming in recent summertime to fall , they bring home the bacon a burst of color when many plants begin to fade .

idealistic for the moist , shaded environments of the Pacific Northwest , Toad Lilies thrive in rich territory and enjoy the region ’s nerveless , wet shape . These perennials call for fiddling care once established , bewitch gardener with their unique beauty . A top choice for append late - time of year pursuit to your garden .

Lungwort

Lungwort is an minimise gem , offering unique spotted leafage and soft blue flowers in early leaping . Its leaves , adorned with silvery topographic point , add a splashing of sake even after the blooms slicing .

Thriving in the Pacific Northwest , Lungwort prefers moist , shaded areas and appreciates the blue-blooded rains . Its low - growing use make it hone for primer coat covering under trees or shrubs . This sturdy perennial is deer - resistant and draw pollinators , adding ecologic benefits to its already charming presence .

Solomon’s Seal

Solomon ’s Seal captivates with its arching stems and pendulous whitened flowers that drop in the zephyr . The leaves form a lucullan , greenish backcloth , make a horse sense of movement and elegance .

In the Pacific Northwest , this plant flourish in the shade , preferring productive , moist territory and benefit from the region ’s frequent pelting . It ’s a low - upkeep addition to any garden , want little more than seasonal trimming . Its ability to naturalize and spring colonies make it an excellent ground cover song option .

Brunnera

Brunnera , often called “ Siberian Bugloss , ” enchants with heart - shaped leaves that swash silver tints and dainty blue flowers . It resemble Forget - Me - Nots , render a nostalgic touch in springiness .

This repeated thrives in the Pacific Northwest , loving the refinement and consistent moisture provided by frequent rains . Its foliation persist attractive even after the blossom have gone , making it a honest option for land cover . Minimal care is require , as it naturally resists cuss and disease , contribute enduring beaut to your garden .

Creeping Jenny

creep Jenny is known for its vivacious immature - yellow leaves that shed over edges , creating a plushy carpet effect in gardens . Its train habit make it ideal for covering earth or cascade over containers .

In the Pacific Northwest , it boom in the wraith , fly high on abundant moisture and frequent rains . This low - maintenance plant require little more than occasional trim to contain its spread . Its lustrous foliage provides a spectacular contrast against dark background , enhance the visual appeal of umbrageous areas .

Foxglove

Foxgloves are loom beauties with spire of chime - form bloom in subtlety of garden pink and purple . Their tall , elegant mien contribute vertical interestingness to any garden .

adapt well to the Pacific Northwest , they prosper in fond shade and moist , well - drained soils , soaking up the region ’s frequent rain . foxglove are biennial but ego - ejaculate easily , ensuring their go along presence . Their blossom attract hummingbirds , adding life and movement to your garden . A slight deadheading encourages sustain anthesis .

Trillium

Trilliums , with their distinctive three - petaled bloom of youth , are woodland treasure that herald the arriver of spring . Their simple yet elegant flowers flourish under the canopy of magnanimous tree diagram .

In the Pacific Northwest , Trilliums love the cool , dampish environments provided by the shadowiness and pelting . They postulate little upkeep once set up , stool them fantabulous for naturalized region . Over time , they organise wizard Colony that carpet the woodland floor . longanimity is rewarded with these slow - growing perennial , as they bring timeless woodland beauty to any garden .

Wintergreen

checkerberry offers year - beat appeal with its sheeny leaves and bright crimson berries , adding soda of color even in wintertime . This groundcover is double-dyed for shaded gardens , where it expand quietly yet beautifully .

In the Pacific Northwest , Wintergreen prefers acidic , well - drained filth and welfare from the part ’s coherent rainfall . The berries are not only decorative but also eatable , supply a delicious bonus for gardeners . Minimal concern is needed , making it an easygoing choice that reinforce with continual interest and charm .

Sword Fern