Shady exposure

Shade-loving varieties are content with less than four hours of sun a day or indirect light.

In the garden, shade corresponds to a north-facing location or a plot that receives no direct light. On the ground, the sun is filtered by other plantings or buildings.

Indoors, shade refers to a room with a north-facing window. If your potted plant is placed several metres from an east- or west-facing window, it too is in the shade.

Shade does not meandarkness. Plants need light to grow. You can't grow green plants in a windowless bathroom or in a bedroom with shutters that are always closed.

Dicksonia antarctica, helxine and bird's nest fern love the subdued light of undergrowth. Indoor plants that like semi-shade, such as plant ZZ and high Aspidistre, also tolerate shade.