9 Potted Plants That Thrive on a Shaded Porch, According to Gardening Experts

Hostas

If you’ve got shade, then you’ve got the perfect environment for hostas. Their broad, textural leaves and variegated colors make them a natural pick for porch pots.

“Hostas can enhance the aesthetics of your outdoor space; they come in a variety of sizes and colors,” says Linda Langelo, horticulture specialist at Colorado State University Extension. What's more: “They're easy to maintain."

• Size: 1.5 to 3 feet tall x 2 to 3 feet wide
• Growing conditions: Part shade to full shade; regular watering in well-draining soil

Hydrangeas

Hydrangeas aren’t just for garden beds—they’re surprisingly well-suited for life in containers, too.

“Whether you garden in the humid South, the blustery North, or somewhere in between, growing hydrangeas in pots can be a rewarding option—with the right variety, care, and placement,” says Linda Vater, plant expert for the Southern Living Plant Collection. That placement can (and often should) include shade—particularly in the heat of the afternoon.

“In southern zones, pots can be shifted to afternoon shade during intense summer heat,” she adds. “In northern zones, containers can be moved to a greenhouse, garage, or another protected area during the winter to avoid root freeze.” 

However, be mindful of the variety you choose. "Some like shade more than others," says Samantha Adler, owner of Houseplant Concierge.

• Size: Varies by variety
• Growing conditions: Morning sun with afternoon shade; regular watering in well-draining soil

Caladiums

Caladiums have heart-shaped leaves that come in vivid shades of pink, red, green, or white; Adler recommends them for brightening up a dim porch. And while they may look fussy, caladiums are surprisingly easygoing—as long as the temps are warm and the soil stays moist.

• Size: 12 to 30 inches tall x 12 to 30 inches wide
• Growing conditions: Full to partial shade; well-draining, moist, nutrient-rich soil

Tuberous Begonias

Begonias are beloved for their blooms, but the foliage on tuberous types can stand alone, too. These flowering plants thrive in containers, and according to Langelo, they don’t ask for much.

“These begonias have a long blooming period and make an outstanding display of color," she says. "The foliage is also beautiful.”

• Size: 1 to 1.5 feet tall x 1 to 1.5 feet wide
• Growing conditions: Part shade; regular watering in well-draining soil (can tolerate some dry periods)

Fuchsia

Fuchsia is practically made for hanging baskets, says Langelo. These delicate, dangling flowers come in rich tones of pink, red, purple, and white—sometimes all at once. Hang them from a sturdy porch overhang for a beautiful display.

• Size: 1 to 2 feet tall x 1 to 2 feet wide
• Growing conditions: Part shade to full shade; regular watering with well-draining soil

Coleus

You may not even need flowers when your foliage looks as good as coleus. This tropical plant comes in vibrant shades of lime green, magenta, chartreuse, and deep purple.

Bonus: It’s functional, too. It contains a chemical that repels mosquitoes.

• Size: 2 to 3 feet tall x 1 to 3 feet wide
• Growing conditions: Bright, indirect light; regular potting mix

Boston Fern

Few plants are as timeless as a lush, overflowing Boston fern. With its soft fronds and delicate texture, it brings both movement and greenery to your porch. “It softens the outdoor space," Langelo says. "It can be offset with other, more colorful plants to fit the décor.”

• Size: 2 to 3 feet tall x 2 to 3 feet wide
• Growing conditions: Part shade; regular watering in well-draining soil

Monstera

Monstera don't just make fantastic houseplants. Outside, their hefty, dramatic leaves can add tropical flair to any covered space. Native to tropical rainforests, where they grow under the tree canopy, these climbers thrive in warm, humid areas, but prefer filtered light.

• Size: 10 to 15 feet tall (when fully matured)
• Growing conditions: Medium to bright, indirect light; well-draining soil

Philodendron

Another native to the understory of tropical rainforests, philodendrons are beautiful and nearly impossible to kill. They prefer bright, indirect light or dappled sunlight and can usually tolerate low-light conditions. Let them spill over the edge of a container or climb up a moss pole.

• Size: 30 to 70 feet long (fully matured, depending on variety)
• Growing conditions: Medium to bright, indirect light; well-draining soil