climbing plants for shade
Transforming a shady wall, fence, or pergola into a lush green haven is easy with the right climbing plants for shade. Here in New Zealand, gardeners often face the challenge of bringing life and colour to those cool, dim corners outside or even indoors. If you’re looking for reliable climbers that thrive in low light, there are several beautiful and versatile options to consider—each with its own unique foliage, flowers, and garden potential.
Hydrangea petiolaris
Hydrangea petiolaris is a climbing hydrangea that grows as a vigorous, self-clinging deciduous climber that produces flat white lacecap blooms in early summer. Its heart-shaped leaves create a lush green covering for walls, fences, and pergolas, especially in shaded or semi-shaded areas. Slow to establish but long-lived, this climber thrives in moist, well-drained soil and performs reliably across New Zealand’s diverse climates. Hydrangea petiolaris brings elegance, structure, and seasonal interest to vertical garden spaces.
From $40.43
Rhaphidophora decursiva
Rhaphidophora decursiva, commonly known as the Dragon Tail Plant or Philodendron Dragon, is a climber that features lush foliage and often grown as an indoor plant. The leaves are large and dark green, and very aesthetic. It will slowly climb a pole or the like or grow as a spreading ground cover if it has nothing to climb. Rhaphidophora decursiva is commonly grown as a potted plant with a pole to climb, planted outdoors in frost free areas around outdoor living areas, or used in offices and foyers.
From $52.58
