When it comes to planting vines in areas with full shade, the options are more limited compared to vines that can thrive in partial shade or full sun. However, there are still several vines that can flourish in full shade conditions. The key is selecting vines that are naturally adapted to low light environments. In this article, we will discuss what full shade means, considerations for growing vines in full shade, and list specific vine recommendations that grow well in full shade.
What is Considered Full Shade?
Full shade refers to areas that receive less than 2 hours of direct sunlight per day, or dappled sunlight at best. These areas are found on the north sides of buildings and structures, underneath dense tree canopies, or in spots obstructed by other buildings, walls, and fences. Full shade conditions can be challenging for many plants, including vines, because the lack of sufficient sunlight limits photosynthesis and growth. However, certain vines are well-suited for full shade based on their native habitats and adaptations.
Considerations for Growing Vines in Full Shade
When selecting and caring for vines in full shade, keep these tips in mind:
- Choose vines suited for shade instead of trying to force sun-loving vines to survive in shade.
- Select vines that are native to forest understories or other naturally shady areas.
- Focus on foliage interest rather than flowers since blooms will be reduced in shade.
- Give vines a head start by planting from larger sized containers vs bare root or seeds.
- Provide supplemental water during periods of drought.
- Mulch around the vines to maintain soil moisture and humidity.
- Avoid over-fertilizing which can cause excess leafy growth at the expense of flowers and fruit.
- Monitor for pests and diseases that may affect vines struggling in low light.
- Consider providing artificial lighting to complement natural light levels.
Even with vines well-suited to shade, growth will be slower and yields reduced compared to sunnier locations. But with the right vine selection and care, you can still achieve attractive foliage and coverage from vines in full shade areas.
Best Vines for Full Shade
Here are some of the top vines that can grow and thrive in full shade:
Native Woodland Vines
- Dutchman’s Pipe (Aristolochia macrophylla) – A hardy vine native to the eastern US. Features large, unique pipe-shaped flowers and large heart-shaped leaves that provide excellent coverage for shade gardens and woodland settings.
- Virginia Creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia) – A fast growing North American native vine. Has attractive palmate leaves that turn a brilliant red in fall. Clings well to surfaces with adhesive tendrils.
- Crossvine (Bignonia capreolata) – A climbing vine native to the southeastern US. Produces stunning tubular orange-red flowers in spring though blooming is reduced in shade. Ideal for arbors, trellises and climbing up trees.
Asian Vines
- Chocolate Vine (Akebia quinata) – An attractive vine native to Japan, China and Korea. Features delicate purple flowers with an interesting chocolate-like fragrance. Its five-leaflets leaves remain green in shade.
- Chinese Wisteria (Wisteria sinensis) – A popular non-native vine known for its drooping clusters of fragrant purple flowers in spring and summer. Provides lovely coverage on arbors and trellises.
- Silvervein Creeper (Parthenocissus henryana) – A deciduous creeping vine from China. Has gorgeous lobed leaves with silver veining that creates a striking effect in shade gardens and on walls.
Other Top Shade Vines
- Sweet Autumn Clematis (Clematis terniflora) – Features masses of lightly fragrant white flowers late summer into fall. A vigorous grower from Japan that can climb up to 20 feet.
- Hyacinth Bean Vine (Lablab purpureus) – Grown for its striking purple flowers and shiny purplish bean pods. A fast growing annual native to Africa.
- Jasmine (Jasminum) – Certain jasmine vine species like Winter Jasmine do well in shade. Provides lush foliage and fragrant white flowers.
- Hops (Humulus lupulus) – The same plant used for beer brewing. Hardy vine grown for its attractive lobed foliage and useful as a screen. Prefers decent moisture.
Groundcover Vines for Deep Shade
In deepest shade where climbing vines struggle, try these trailing or groundcover vines instead:
- Sweetwoodruff (Galium odoratum) – Herbaceous perennial for partial to full shade. Known for its fragrant white flowers and whorled leaves.
- Deadnettle (Lamium maculatum) – Evergreen creeper with silvery-green leaves and purple blooms in spring.
- English Ivy (Hedera helix) – Very shade tolerant and grows well as a ground cover. Also climbs walls and trees with its adhesive aerial rootlets.
- Periwinkle (Vinca minor) – Features glossy dark green foliage even in deep shade. Bears blue flowers in spring. Can be invasive so contain it.
- Sweetfern (Comptonia peregrina) – A low growing native vine that thrives in acidic soils in full shade. Has aromatic foliage.
Conclusion
While full shade limits options compared to sunnier sites, there are still several excellent vines that can grow, climb and provide coverage in shaded areas. Focus on shade-loving species native to forest settings or originating from Asia. Provide adequate moisture and watch for pests and diseases. With the proper selection and care, it’s possible to achieve attractive vines and foliage even in full shade conditions.
