This tall perennial flowers best in dappled afternoon shade and rich soil. (Note: It may be invasive in certain zones.)

Choose from a wide variety of these stalwarts. They grow in tight mounds or in tall, loose stands. newer hybrids are more mildew resistant.

The easy-to-grow shade-loving tricyrtis looks almost like a tropical orchid that found its way into the shady corners of your backyard.

Unlike the short bedding varieties, the tall Begonia grandis will make an impressive display of flowers and angel-wing leaves in the shade garden.

Many think of these only as the squat, red bedding varieties. Seek elegant types like S. guaranitica and S. Indigo Spires.