See also...
Looking for something nice to fill that shady area under a tree or against the house where the grass doesn't grow? Try one of these shade loving groundcovers or shrubs.
Cordyline rubra and Atractocarpus chartaceus images copyright Queensland Museum
| Common Name (Botanical Name) | Features | Growing Preferences | Fauna support | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 |
rasp fern (Doodia aspera) | Excellent low, mat forming fern to 30-40cm high; attractive pink flush on new fronds | Shade and semi shade; tolerates dry conditions | |
 |
red-fruited palm lily (Cordyline rubra) | Hardy shrub for shady areas; multiple branches to 3m high; red fruits hang in bunches | Shade and semi shade; grows in most soils | birds, butterflies |
 |
narrow-leaved gardenia (Atractocarpus chartaceus) | Tall open understorey shrub to 3m; fragrant white flowers and bright orange/red fruits | Shade; well drained soils | birds |
 |
cat's whiskers (Orthosiphon aristatus) | Showy, erect shrub to 1m with mauve/white flowers; excellent filler plant; quick growing and flowers over extended periods | Full sun to shade; well drained and composted soils | |
 |
native violet (Viola banksii) | Pretty creeping groundcover for borders and rockeries; tiny violet flowers mainly in spring and summer; usually sold as Viola hederacea. | Shade and semi shade; grows in most soils; prefers some moisture | butterflies |
