Name: The Plant Company
Address: 284 Meeanee Road, Meeanee, Napier, 4112, New Zealand
Telephone: 0800 843 752
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shade loving climbing plants

If your garden or indoor space is low on sunshine, there’s no need to settle for an empty wall or a dull corner. Shade loving climbing plants are a brilliant solution, bringing life, colour, and texture to even the shadiest spots. From lush evergreen vines to delicate flowering climbers, these plants not only soften hard edges but also create a cool, tranquil oasis that thrives where others might struggle.

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.

Buy Rhaphidophora decursiva

From $44.09

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

Bougainvillea 'Purple Patch'

Bougainvillea ‘Purple Patch’ is a dazzling climbing plant that delivers an abundance of rich purple bracts through the warmer months. Perfect for brightening fences, pergolas, and garden walls, it brings tropical vibrancy and structure to New Zealand gardens.

Buy Bougainvillea 'Purple Patch'

From $30.29

Suited to regions: Subtropical, Temperate

Plant type: Climbers

Height: 2.00 m

Spread: 2.00 m

Flowering time: Spring, Summer

Tolerances: Coastal, Hardy

Garden uses: Arches, Containers, Living areas, Pool areas

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

Why Choose Shade Loving Climbing Plants?

Many classic climbers prefer full sun, but various beautiful options exist specifically for shaded environments. Shade loving climbing plants can cloak fences, pergolas, and bare walls in greenery, making them ideal for southern facing walls, beneath tree canopies, or in urban gardens with limited sunlight. As these climbers often prefer cooler, more protected locations, they are perfect for New Zealand gardens where dappled light or shade predominates.

Top Shade Loving Climbing Plants for Kiwi Gardens

If you’re ready to transform a shady spot, here are some outstanding shade loving climbing plants to consider:

Hydrangea petiolaris

Known as the climbing hydrangea, Hydrangea petiolaris is loved for its masses of lacy, white summer flowers and heart-shaped, deep green foliage. This climber tolerates quite dense shade and will cling to walls, fences, or trellises as a self-supporting vine, adding year-round interest and texture to darker spaces.

Hydrangea seemanii

A close relative of the climbing hydrangea, Hydrangea seemanii is an evergreen variety with glossy leaves and delicate white flower clusters. It is ideal for shady south or east-facing walls and will tolerate a range of soil conditions, providing year-round coverage in low-light gardens.

Ficus pumila (Creeping Fig)

Perfect for adding lush, green coverage along fences and walls, Ficus pumila (Creeping Fig) thrives in the shade and maintains a dense, decorative appearance. It clings beautifully to most surfaces, quickly transforming a dull outdoor or indoor area into a leafy sanctuary.

Rhaphidophora decursiva

For indoor spaces or conservatories, Rhaphidophora decursiva is a stunning choice. Its large, dramatic leaves and trailing habit make it perfect for indoor structures, moss poles, or shady corners where it will add a tropical, modern touch.

Bonus Pick: Chlorophytum comosum variegatum (Spider Plant)

While not a true climber, Chlorophytum comosum variegatum (Spider Plant) is a shade-loving favourite that cascades beautifully from hanging baskets in low-light spaces, complementing vertical gardens created by climbing species.

Tips for Success with Shade Loving Climbers

Prepare soil well with compost and moisture-retentive mulch, as shaded spots can dry out in windy weather.
Provide sturdy support like trellises or wires for climbers that require training.
Water newly planted climbers regularly to help establish deep roots.
Prune as needed to maintain shape and encourage healthy growth.

Whether indoors or outdoors, shade loving climbing plants bring vibrancy to every nook and cranny. Explore our full range to discover the perfect plant for your garden or home.

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.

shade loving climbing plants

Rhaphidophora decursiva

Bougainvillea 'Purple Patch'

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Why Choose Shade Loving Climbing Plants?