Question
I am searching for some colorful shade perennials to plant around our home.  I have an opportunity to purchase some Ixia, Anemone Decaen, and Zephyranthes robustus which are very pretty, but I have not been able to locate any information on whether these are appropriate for shady areas.  Do you know anything about these varieties or have any other recommendations?

Thank you for your time and expertise.

Answer
Rachel,

Ixia are full-sun bulbs. These anemones and the Zephyrahtes  can take partial shade (but may not bloom well).

My favorite blooming perennial for shade is Astilbe. They range from white to red to purple, have long-lasting blooms, and are easy to grow. Planted amongst ferns and hosta and other shade foliage plants, they're just beautiful. Although hostas are mostly cultivated for their foliage, some of them have lovely flowers. I'm particularly fond of the large-bloomed, scented varieties (of which there are very few). Dicentra (bleeding heart) is an old-fashioned favorite I'm seeing more and more of. There are white varieties now in addition to the several shades of pink/red. Primroses and Hellebores are other bloomers. Monarda and Columbine are others to try. Species tulips have done really well for me in shade under a deciduous tree. Daffodils and turberous begonias are other bulb-type things. Also, many alliums will give decent results in shade, so they're worth a try.

Hope this gives you some ideas. Good luck!