In May 2003 the PBS list topic of the week was Bulbs for Shade. Participants mentioned their favorite bulbs to grow in the shade. Bulbs to grow in the shade were also suggested other times as well. In choosing bulbs for shade you would naturally think of bulbs that grow in woodland or forests. Some bulbs that need sun to flower well can be grown under deciduous trees where they get light while in growth and shade while dormant. What might be a good choice to be planted in the shade in one climate, might not bring success in another. Factors determining that include when it rains (summer or winter), how much it rains, how cold it gets in winter (when bulbs are dormant or growing), and whether winter dormant bulbs are protected under snow (a moderating influence). Summer temperatures are also important, both day and night highs and lows. Some of these choices may seem surprising as these bulbs may do fine being grown in the sun or in some climates not do well being grown in the shade. For all these reasons it is important to note the location of the person recommending the genus or species.
This page lists alphabetically in a table the species or the genus, if a specific species was not noted, sometimes with comments, followed by the name and the location of the person who mentioned them, usually from experience growing them. There are links to more information about the plants discussed and there are photos from our wiki (when they are available) of these plants.
Bulbs for Shade A-B - Bulbs for Shade Ca-Cl - Bulbs for Shade Co-Cy - Bulbs for Shade D-G - Bulbs for Shade H-Lu - Bulbs for Shade Ly-O - Bulbs for Shade P-Z