Top Shade-Tolerant Plants for Texas Yards

Texas heat can be intense—but that doesn’t mean every area of your yard gets full sun. Shaded spaces under mature trees or next to fences and buildings require plants that thrive in less light. Fortunately, many shade-tolerant varieties not only survive but also add beauty and texture to your landscape.

1. Turk’s Cap (Malvaviscus arboreus)

A Texas native with bold red flowers, Turk’s Cap does well in part to full shade and is a magnet for hummingbirds. It’s low-maintenance and ideal for filling space under trees.

2. Inland Sea Oats

This ornamental grass adds movement and texture to shaded areas. It’s drought-tolerant, grows well in poor soils, and produces unique seed heads that sway in the breeze.

3. Autumn Fern

For a soft, woodland feel, autumn ferns bring rich green color to the shade. They tolerate heat better than many other fern varieties.

4. Columbine (Aquilegia spp.)

Texas Gold Columbine, in particular, is a standout. It grows in dappled shade and produces delicate yellow blooms in spring. It’s deer-resistant and thrives in well-drained soils.

5. Hostas and Caladiums (for seasonal impact)

While not native, these annuals offer bold color and texture and do well when planted in containers or as seasonal fillers in deep shade.

Don’t overlook the shady corners of your yard. With the right plant choices, you can turn them into lush, inviting spaces that thrive through summer and beyond.