Looking for a good plant for a problem spot

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Saint Petersburg, FL
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10a
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I have one part of my yard that's a constant headache when it comes to growing something in it. It's in deep shade most of the day, with a tiny bit of dappled sun during the late afternoon. I'm in zone 10a and my soil is fairly heavy in spite of a lot of amending over the years, so drainage isn't super fast. Right now I have a few caladiums in that corner, but I'd like to add something that blooms because I love seeing the little native bees in the yard.

Any ideas for something that'll tolerate the shade, our heat, and the wet weather during the summer rainy season? It doesn't have to be a small, compact plant, I'd be happy to let a shrub take over that area and move the caladiums elsewhere. Thanks in advance!
 

JBtheExplorer

Native Plant Gardener
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Consider a native plant like Wild Columbine (Aquilegia canadensis).
Mine just happened to bloom a few days ago so I have a picture handy.
It can handle full sun or shade, though I imagine with your heat, it'll do much better in shade. According to BONAP's North American Plant Atlas, it does grow in Florida, though rare. It's one of the earliest nectar sources, so native bees really do benefit from it! These look best when planted in groups.

IMG_7664 copy.jpg



I also think ferns are always a great option when it comes to shady areas.
 

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