In Denver, where the climate can be challenging due to its altitude and relatively dry conditions, finding the right flowers for shade can be important for maintaining a beautiful garden. Most if not all plants, especially flowers, always want the most sunlight they can handle, typically filtered sunlight & not direct. These plants may be shade-loving, but they may not thrive if planted in total shade with no sunlight. Here are some flowers that tend to do well in shaded areas in Denver:

1. Bleeding Heart (Dicentra spectabilis): This perennial plant produces unique heart-shaped flowers that hang gracefully from arching stems. It prefers partial to full shade and well-draining soil. Also choose a protected area that doesn't get much direct wind.
2. Astilbe: Astilbes are known for their feathery plumes of flowers in various colors, including pink, red, and white. They do well in shaded areas with consistently moist soil. Can create a unique look when different colors are planted in groups together, or mixed up.
3. Hostas: Hostas are classic shade-loving plants that come in a variety of sizes, shapes, and leaf colors. They produce attractive foliage and some varieties also have lovely flowers. Very hardy and grow a bit larger as the years go by. They also tolerate acidic soil and can be planted under pine trees to brighten up the base.
4. Lungwort (Pulmonaria): Lungwort is a low-growing perennial with spotted leaves and clusters of pink, blue, or white flowers in the spring. It thrives in shady spots with moist soil.
5. Coral Bells (Heuchera): Coral Bells are prized for their colorful foliage and delicate, bell-shaped flowers. They can tolerate partial shade and prefer well-drained soil. Many different colors of foliage can be used for a pop of color in darker shady areas of your garden. Color usually persists late into winter
6. Japanese Forest Grass (Hakonechloa macra): This ornamental grass adds texture and movement to shaded areas with its cascading foliage. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and can tolerate partial shade.
7. Ferns: Various fern species, such as Lady Ferns or Maidenhair Ferns, thrive in shady, moist conditions. They add lush greenery and texture to shaded areas.
8. Brunnera (Brunnera macrophylla): Also known as Siberian Bugloss, Brunnera produces small, forget-me-not-like flowers in the spring and has attractive heart-shaped leaves. It does well in partial to full shade and moist soil.

When planting shade-loving flowers, it's essential to consider the specific conditions of your garden, including the amount of shade, soil type, and moisture levels, to ensure the plants thrive. Additionally, providing proper mulching and regular watering can help maintain a healthy and vibrant garden in shaded areas. Denver is known for its dry weather, make sure more tender plants are in an area that is not too windy, or you risk foliage burn and/or soil drying out too quickly. Be sure to check out our Facebook post on the matter.