Every pond-owner dreams of a full-sun water garden, but some of our ponds are shaded. No need to fret: there are plenty of pond plants that thrive in part-shade and full-shade conditions. Here are ten of our favorites:
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Arc-en-Ciel Water Lily. Most water lilies want full sun, and will sulk and waste away if they don’t get what they want. But, Arc-en-Ciel is a lovely lily that is perfectly happy in the shade. The pale pink flowers and striking mottled leaves will brighten up any shaded pond. Rembrand water lilies, chromatella water lilies, odorata water lilies, Joey Tomocik water lilies, Texas dawn water lilies and Colorado peach water lilies are also happy in part shade.
- Horsetail Rush. If you want something different, horsetail rush is the plant for you. The rigidly vertical leaves are ridged and regularly jointed, and provide an excellent backdrop for more delicate pond plants. And, if you are looking for a conversation starter: horsetail rush’s relatives were around in the days of the dinosaurs. Read our full post on horsetail rush for more information.
- Blue Pickerel Reed. Brighten up any shady spot with these lavender-blue flowers and tropical-green leaves. A North American native, blue pickerel reed will thrive just about anywhere. And, if white flowers are more your style, try white pickerel reed.
- President Canna Lily. Add a bold splash of red to your shaded area with the President canna lily.
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black magic taro
Black Magic Taro, aka Black Magic Elephant Ear. All the taros and elephant ears are happy in the shade. In fact, these playful plants are happiest with a little protection from the hot sun. Every taro is a good choice, but the purple-black leaves of black magic taro makes it our favorite.
- Lizard’s Tail. This American native will quickly establish in shaded areas, filling in dark corners and providing a great background for other plants. The white flower stalks are present on lizard’s tail throughout most of the summer. Read our full blog post on lizard’s tail for more information.
- Cardinal Flower. This isn’t just another red flower. Cardinal flower is a favorite of hummingbirds, and is a great way to attract these delightful birds to your pond and garden.
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white rain lily
White Rain Lily, aka White Fairy Lily. These crocus-like white flowers bloom in the summer, long after your crocuses have disappeared for the year. White rain lily doesn’t like to be too wet, and will do best in moist soil and very shallow water.
- Four-Leaf Clover. You’ll feel lucky all year round with four-leaf clover growing in your pond. This playful ground cover does best in shallow water, and will even establish in moist to dry soil.
- Mondo Grass. Fill in the edges of your pond with mondo grass, a low-growing shade-lover that prefers soggy to dry soil. An excellent choice for softening the edges of your pond, and hiding the water line.
