It spreads by underground runners and prefers fairly nutrient-rich soil. Ferns work very well in the shade. There are many types to select from. This area gives you a place to rake leaves to for home use and by the next fall they'll have disappeared into the ground. Earthworms will drag the leaves down to eat them.
Worm castings are an excellent source of slow-release nitrogen.
There will be no need to aerate this area as the worm's movements will do it for you. Use native deciduous trees and shrubs for leaves or select from such native evergreens as Black or White Cedar. Wood chips or shredded wood make a good groundcover that still affords an ornamental, manicured look. Types of wood to use include such native evergreens as Black Cedar or White Cedar, pine or spruce varieties like Colorado Blue, White, Alberta Dwarf, as well as junipers. Stone mulch , another option, is comprised of varying sized, shaped and coloured cobblestones.