Create the Illusion of Sun Dappling in Shady Yards

An old trick used by landscape gardeners is to use variegated plants to create the illusion of sun dappling to brighten the look of a shaded planting area. Plant candidates for this technique must have two qualities: they must tolerate shade and have yellow, chartreuse or white leaves. The source of such foliage is from variegated plants. Variegation is the change of color in green leaves to add a light colored edge or center. Hostas are among the most famous variegated plants for shade gardens.

Top Variegated Perennials to Brighten Shady Spots

Acorus 'Ogon'

Golden Variegated Sweet Flag

Hosta Variegated Hybrids

Variegated Plantain Lily

Hedera 'Gold Heart'

Variegated Dwarf English Ivy

Hakonechloamacra 'Areola'

Golden Japanese Forest Grass

Liriope muscari 'Silvery Sunproof'

Lilyturf

Vinca major 'Aureo Variegata'

Gold Variegated Periwinkle

Related:
Shade Tree Solutions
Shady Shrubs for North Foundations
Add Excitement to Shade With Perennials