plants for deep shade

Hi

we have a 2 meter square area thats deep shade most of the year - i have thought of ferns / grasses but would like some summer colour

any ideas?

 

I'm sure people will scream NO! but I love sweet woodruff it's great for ground cover - I have it mixed with heuchera purple palace in the shade - more deep than dappled.

 

aquilegia? (please confirm, somebody)

 

I have aquilegia that does well in area which is mostly shady. Planted with euphorbia, hostas and primroses/polyanthus.
Astilbe would also we suitable as long as the shade isn't too dry.

 

Astilbe , I am putting mine in a shady spot this week .

 

For ground cover, Ajuga is good.

 

Hi

I like the idea so sweet woodruff, it will spread over time. Heucheras in deep shade is worth thinking about.

Maybe I will go for periwinkle, and astilbe.

 

I'm with the suggestion of astilbe. A nice colourful plant to liven a dark shady spot.

 

Sorry to be a pain, but what does "deep" shade mean to you?
Do you mean as in forest floor deep shade with tree canopies blocking the light (and maybe on the dry side)?
Or, do you mean a shade area created by a building/fencing casting shadow with no direct sunlight at all but open to the sky (possibly remaining on the damp side)?
It makes a difference in the range of plants which would grow.
Also, which type of soil is it?