- Topic: Best plants for hanging baskets in shade (USA)
- Best for: Shaded porches, patios, decks, and balconies
- Light needs: Partial shade to full shade
- Plant types: Annuals, perennials, trailing plants
- Updated: 2026
Choosing the best plants for hanging baskets in shade is important for gardeners across the USA who deal with limited sunlight. Many porches, covered patios, and north-facing balconies receive little direct sun, yet they can still support healthy and attractive plants.
This 2026 USA guide focuses on shade-tolerant plants that perform well in hanging baskets. Each option below grows reliably in low-light areas and works well for home gardens in different U.S. climate zones.
| Plant | Light Preference | Growth Type | Bloom Season | Avg. Price (USA) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fuchsia | Partial shade | Trailing | Spring–Fall | $8–$15 |
| Begonia | Shade | Mounding / trailing | Spring–Fall | $6–$14 |
| Impatiens | Shade | Mounding | Spring–Frost | $5–$12 |
| Lobelia | Partial shade | Trailing | Spring–Summer | $6–$10 |
| Trailing Bacopa | Partial shade | Trailing | Spring–Fall | $7–$13 |
| Coleus | Shade | Upright / spilling | Spring–Fall | $6–$12 |
Fuchsia
Fuchsia is one of the most reliable choices when selecting the best plants for hanging baskets in shade. Its drooping flowers grow well in shaded porches and covered patios across many regions of the USA.
This plant prefers cooler temperatures and consistent moisture. Regular watering helps keep blooms active from spring through early fall.
Begonia
Begonias perform well in low-light conditions and suit hanging baskets placed under trees or roofed decks. Their flowers and foliage stay full without direct sun exposure.
They work well in containers with good drainage and steady watering. Begonias are often used alongside other shade plants in mixed baskets.
Impatiens
Impatiens are widely used in shaded gardens across the USA because of their long bloom season. They add steady color to hanging baskets placed away from sunlight.
These plants prefer evenly moist soil and mild temperatures. For gardeners working with other shaded areas, pairing baskets with ground plantings from the best flowering plants for shade can create a balanced look.
Lobelia
Lobelia adds trailing texture and soft color to hanging baskets in partial shade. Its compact growth works well near edges and basket rims.
This plant prefers cooler conditions and regular watering. Lobelia works best when used as a filler alongside broader-leaf plants.
Trailing Bacopa
Trailing Bacopa grows well in hanging baskets where sunlight is limited but indirect light is present. Its small flowers spread evenly across the basket.
It pairs well with other shade plants and performs best in well-drained soil. For shaded entryways, combining baskets with ideas from the best plants for a shaded porch can improve overall balance.
Coleus
Coleus is grown for leaf color rather than flowers, making it useful in full shade. Its patterned leaves stay bold without sun exposure.
It works well as a centerpiece plant in hanging baskets and handles pruning well. Coleus also matches container setups used in the best potted plants for shaded porch layouts.
How to Care for Hanging Baskets in Shade
Use plants that match low-light conditions and allow water to drain freely. Shade baskets usually dry out more slowly than sun baskets, so check the soil before watering.
Trim dead growth regularly and watch for pests. Balanced liquid fertilizer applied lightly during the growing season supports steady growth.
FAQs
Fuchsia, begonias, impatiens, coleus, and trailing bacopa perform well in shaded areas across the USA.
They usually need less frequent watering, but soil moisture should still be checked often.
Yes, several flowering plants grow well with little or no direct sunlight.
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