Best Vines & Climbers for Shade
6 vine varieties well-suited for shade gardens. Varieties that thrive in partial sun or low light.
Boston Ivy
A vigorous deciduous climbing vine famous for creating those classic ivy-covered brick buildings on college campuses. This fast-growing vine produces stunning fall color, transforming from green to brilliant shades of orange, red, and purple that make it a showstopper in autumn landscapes.
Clematis 'Jackmanii'
The most popular and reliable clematis variety, beloved for its profuse display of large, velvety purple flowers that bloom from midsummer through fall. This vigorous climber is perfect for covering arbors, fences, or trellises with its stunning 4-6 inch violet-purple blooms that have made it a garden classic for over 150 years.
English Ivy
The classic evergreen climbing vine that transforms any surface into a lush green wall year-round. English Ivy's distinctive lobed leaves and vigorous climbing habit make it perfect for covering unsightly fences, walls, or creating dramatic ground cover. Its adaptability to both sun and shade conditions makes it one of the most versatile vines for home landscapes.
Ruby Moon
Purple stems, lilac-rose blossoms, and shiny 2-3" magenta pods. While all parts of the plant are edible, we recommend boiling the mature seeds twice before eating. Used in Asian, Thai, and Indian cuisine. Blooms and pods are useful as cut flowers; pods may be dried. Also known as bonavist-bean, and lablab-bean. Tender perennial in Zones 9-10. Best grown as an annual elsewhere.Edible Flowers: Flowers can be eaten raw or steamed, and can be used as a garnish for salads and desserts. Flavor is mild, bean-like, and sweet. A favorite in our taste tests.
Virginia Creeper
A stunning native North American vine that provides spectacular fall color with its five-fingered leaves turning brilliant scarlet and orange. Virginia Creeper climbs effortlessly using adhesive tendrils, making it perfect for covering walls, fences, or arbors without damaging surfaces like some other climbing vines. This fast-growing perennial vine also provides excellent wildlife habitat and food for birds.
Wisteria
The queen of flowering vines, Chinese Wisteria creates breathtaking displays of fragrant purple flower clusters that cascade like living waterfalls in spring. These vigorous woody vines can transform pergolas, arbors, and sturdy structures into romantic garden focal points that bloom for decades. While requiring patience and annual pruning, the spectacular spring show makes Wisteria one of the most coveted ornamental vines.
Why These Vines & Climbers Work for Shade
Most vegetables want full sun, but many leafy greens, herbs, and ornamentals actually prefer partial shade — especially in hot climates where afternoon sun scorches leaves. These varieties thrive with 3–6 hours of direct sun or bright dappled light.