Shrubs for shady area

I live in the Tidewater area of Virginia and would like to plant shrubs along my back fence. The area gets afternoon sun through fall and winter, but not as much when the leaves return on several tall trees in the backyard. Any suggestions for fast-growing, evergreen shrubs that don't mind the shade? Thank you!

Submitted by BHGPhotoContest

Hi,

Thanks for writing. There aren't a whole lot of evergreen, shade-tolerant shrubs for your area. But happily, there are some great ones, including:
Azaleas & Rhododendrons: http://www.bhg.com/gardening/plant-dictionary/shrub/rhododendron/
Holly: http://www.bhg.com/gardening/plant-dictionary/shrub/holly/
Camellia: http://www.bhg.com/gardening/plant-dictionary/shrub/camellia/
Mahonia: http://www.bhg.com/gardening/plant-dictionary/shrub/grape-holly/

Learn more about these and other great varieties in our online Plant Encyclopedia: http://www.bhg.com/gardening/plant-dictionary/

I hope this helps!

---Justin
Senior Garden Editor, BHG.com
Better Homes and Gardens

Answered by BHGgardenEditors

Community Answers (2)

Also Sweet Tea Osmanthus fragrans

Submitted by Croakie_SC zone 8