For a more diminutive vertical accent, Juniperus communis Gold Cone is excellent. Daub s Frosted make good ground covers. Note size of internodes to determine growth rate. Miniature and dwarf garden conifers are ideal as foundation plants. Intermediate and large sizes would require more space in the landscape.
Many conifers go through seasonal changes and provide interest in the winter landscape.
New growth on conifers is usually a lighter shade of green, but it can emerge as a bright yellow or red. Picea abies Crusita and Rubra Spicata emerge blood red in the spring, but fade to normal green with warmer temperatures. Picea abies Argenteospicata, and Tsuga canadensis New Gold emerge yellow in spring then change to green. White tips are a show in mid-summer on Tsuga canadensis Gentsch White, Labar s Whitetip and Summer Snow. These are fabulous accents to a shade garden.