Climbers for a shady wall or fence
Do you have a north or east-facing shady wall or fence? We recommend climbers that thrive in shade. North and east-facing borders can be transformed with a range of attractive climbers. Some do best on an east-facing border, where they need sun for part of the day. Others will thrive in full shade. Here are our recommended plants for north and east-facing walls and fences.
1. Rosa 'Wedding Day'
Rosa 'Wedding Day' is a fast-growing and fragrant rambler rose, perfect for covering a house wall or border in partial shade. It will tolerate poor soil and a north-facing aspect, but prefers moist, well-drained soil and plenty of space.
2. Ivy
Ivy will cope in deep shade. The native form, Hedera helix, has beautiful dark green glossy leaves. The colourful patterns can help brighten up dark corners in the garden. Consider Boston ivy as an alternative.
3. Honeysuckle
Honeysuckles, such as Lonicera periclymenum 'Serotina' (pictured), climb walls and fences, and many are happy in partial shade. They offer a wonderful fragrance and are great for wildlife.
4. Star jasmine
Although small, the flowers of the star jasmine shown in the picture, Trachelospermum jasminoides, are very fragrant. It will be happy on an east-facing wall that is in partial shade during the day, but gets some sunlight.
5. Clematis viticella
Viticella clematis, such as 'Black Prince', shown in the picture, are hardy varieties that can quickly cover walls and fences, and many can grow in partial shade. Like all clematis, they do best with their roots in cool, moist shade.
6. Chinese Virginia Creeper
Parthenocissus henryana is a fast-growing, self-seeding climber that turns a rich crimson color as frosty nights arrive. Its color is most vibrant when it gets a little sun during the day.
7. Clematis alpina
Despite its pretty appearance, Clematis alpina is very hardy and will tolerate a fair amount of shade and cold temperatures. Plant it in a layering pattern over a fence or low wall for beautiful spring blooms. It doesn’t require pruning.
8. Clematis x durandi
Enjoy indigo blooms all summer long with this shrubby clematis, whose stems are more likely to creep than climb. To cover a border, tie the stems to supports as they grow. Clematis x durandi prefers shade for some of the day, so it copes well in most aspects.
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