1. Rex Begonia (Begonia rex ‘Black Fancy’). This dramatic plant offers handsome scalloped foliage for the shaded areas of a garden; it can also be used as a houseplant. Its small pink flowers arrive in winter, and it thrives in humid conditions with well-drained soil. Be sure not to overwater or overfertilize. Zone 10. Partial shade.
2. Bugbane (Actea simplex ‘Hillside Black Beauty’). This stunning plant’s purple leaves provide a striking backdrop for other shade lovers. In fall, its cream-colored flowers bloom on wandlike stems. Zone 3. Partial shade.
