Finding Plants for shaded areas  is not the  problem as it might seem. Very often, plants do not grow in shade, because of the actual cause the ‘permanent’ shade i.e. an overhanging tree which (a) prevents the rain getting at the area in question and (b) uses up any soil moisture that is available. So, assuming that you can keep the area reasonably moist, then you can try some of the following for shady places....

For summer bedding plants, you cannot beat the ordinary Busy Lizzy (Impatiens) for shaded areas - and they don’t come much prettier than that. Where I live, there is a mature Cedar tree - under which is ‘permanent shade’- but lightened up with a lovely selection of Helleborus orientalis. The flowers start from February into March - just when you need a bit of colour, after a long winter.

For dry shaded areas you can also try some of the Epimediums - especially Epimedium perraldianum and also some of the Lamiums , (with these you get the benefit of pretty flowers and also pretty leaves). Pulmonarias are also suitable for a good flower show in the spring - followed by spectacular foliage on some varieties. Liriope muscari and the Bergenias will also do well.

Rhododendrons and Azaleas will also flourish if allowed just a little dappled light.

Azalea mollis is a fine deciduous Azalea for woodland and shaded areas.

       
     Helleborus orientalis                                Pulmonaria Azure

For damp shade areas, The King Cup (Calatha palustris) makes a good show in the early spring - so do some of the primulas such as the new ‘Wanda’ types. Hostas of course - but do watch out for slugs. Monardas (Bergamots) are also worthy of a place. If it is not too damp, then the Foam Flower (Tiarella cordifolia) is also a must. This will also do quite well in a dry situation. For something quite spectacular in early spring, treat yourself to one of the many Camellias .