The following list contains descriptions of some of the more common shrubs that will do well in shady areas. Plants marked with an asterisk require acid soil. They should not be selected for areas having neutral or alkaline soil unless the planting site is specially prepared in advance to provide an acid, well-drained soil. It is valued for its shiny dark-green foliage and early flowers similar to lily of the valley. The young foliage is a rich reddish bronze.
Japanese andromeda is used as a background or specimen plant.
Plant in light shade. Zones 6 to 9. It is valued for its shiny foliage and because it withstands city conditions. Five-leaf aralia is used as a background or screen. Plant in light to full shade.