Name: The Plant Company
Address: 284 Meeanee Road, Meeanee, Napier, 4112, New Zealand
Telephone: 0800 843 752
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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.

Ficus pumila (Creeping Fig)

Ficus pumila, commonly known as Creeping Fig or Climbing Ficus, is a vigorous, evergreen climber popular in New Zealand for covering walls, fences, and trellises. It features small, heart-shaped juvenile leaves that mature into larger, leathery foliage. Fast-growing and self-clinging, it can create dense, green coverage in sun or partial shade. Preferring well-drained soil and regular moisture, it thrives in sheltered sites and requires pruning to manage growth. Ideal for decorative and functional vertical greening.

Buy Ficus pumila (Creeping Fig)

From $19.25

Suited to regions: All regions

Plant type: Climbers

Height: 4.00 m

Spread: 4.00 m

Tolerances: Coastal, Extended dry periods, Hardy, Wind

Garden uses: Arches, Living areas, Screening, Walls

Garden styles: Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern

Rhaphidophora decursiva

Rhaphidophora decursiva (Dragon Tail Plant) is a striking tropical climber known for its large, deeply split leaves that become more dramatic as the plant matures. This fast growing plant adds a lush, jungle like feel to indoor spaces and sheltered NZ gardens. Ideal for climbing supports or large containers, it offers bold foliage and strong visual impact.

Buy Rhaphidophora decursiva

From $53.75

Suited to regions: Subtropical

Plant type: Indoor Plants

Height: 40 cm

Spread: 70 cm

Tolerances: Shade

Garden uses: Arches, Borders, Containers, Living areas, Paths & Steps

Garden styles: Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Frontyard, Modern, Tropical, White

Why Choose Climbing Plants for Shade?

Climbing plants for shade are invaluable for turning hard-to-fill spaces into thriving features. They quickly cover bare walls, soften harsh fencing, and add vertical interest to small gardens. Many shade-loving climbers tolerate a range of conditions and require little maintenance once established. When selected well, they provide year-round texture, stunning seasonal blooms, and can even help to cool and insulate your home.

Top Climbing Plants for Shade in New Zealand Gardens

Hydrangea petiolaris

Among the best climbers for shady spots is Hydrangea petiolaris. This hardy, self-clinging plant thrives on south-facing walls and under large trees. Its heart-shaped foliage is covered in soft, white lacecap flowers in late spring and early summer, brightening even the darkest corners. Hydrangea petiolaris is low-maintenance and tolerates cold winters, making it a reliable choice for southern regions.

Hydrangea seemanii

A close relative, Hydrangea seemanii, is an evergreen hydrangea that flourishes in partial to full shade. With its glossy green leaves and creamy white flower clusters, it offers year-round interest and a soft, romantic look along fences or garden structures.

Ficus pumila (Creeping Fig)

For those wanting dense green coverage, Ficus pumila (Creeping Fig) is a must-have. This vigorous climber hugs surfaces with tiny, adhesive roots, creating a lush, textural carpet of foliage. Ficus pumila (Creeping Fig) is superb for covering brickwork, pillars, or trellises in areas with limited sunlight.

Rhaphidophora decursiva

Indoors or outdoors in frost-free zones, Rhaphidophora decursiva brings a tropical vibe with dramatic, deeply lobed leaves. This climbing aroid handles moderate shade and humid conditions well, making it ideal for bathrooms, conservatories, or under dense canopy outdoors.

Using Companion Plants in Shady Spaces

For a full, layered effect, plant climbing varieties with other shade-lovers such as Bergenia cordifolia (Pig Squeak Plant) at their base. Its glossy evergreen leaves and spring flowers create excellent contrast and keep garden beds vibrant all year.

Tips for Growing Climbing Plants in Shade

Ensure adequate soil preparation: add compost for moisture retention and better drainage.
Water regularly until established, as shady areas can be drier than expected.
Support climbers with trellises, wires, or walls—some need a gentle guide when young.

Choosing the right climbing plants for shade can transform forgotten corners into lush, tranquil retreats. Explore our collection today to find the perfect climber for your garden’s unique conditions.

Contact us

Whether you need assistance finding the plant you’re looking for or you simply want to know more about who we are and what we do, we invite you to get in touch with us today. A member of The Plant Company team will get back in touch as soon as possible.

climbing plants for shade

Ficus pumila (Creeping Fig)

Rhaphidophora decursiva

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Why Choose Climbing Plants for Shade?