A dusky rose foxglove with elegant spires that rise like poetry from the border—romantic, statuesque, and loved by bees.
A lush evergreen groundcover with rich green foliage and chartreuse spring bracts that glow in the shade like little lanterns.
A refined, almost architectural fern with dark green, glossy fronds—perfect for adding depth and texture to cool, quiet corners.
Also called Dicentra 'Alba'. Graceful arching stems bear pure white, heart-shaped flowers that dangle like pearls—an ethereal favourite for shady spaces.
A moody twist on a cottage classic, with rich chocolate-bronze foliage and soft lavender-pink blooms that gently lift the shade.
A cascading ribbon of green, this ornamental grass flows like water and brings soft movement to still, shaded places.
A beautifully tiered shrub that blossoms with pure white flowers in spring, followed by red berries—elegant and endlessly changing.
A cottage garden staple with frothy lime flowers and scalloped leaves that hold morning dew like jewels.
This shaded border is a gentle composition of layered planting, soft textures, and subtle tones, designed to bring a deep sense of calm to your outdoor space. Created to soothe the senses and quiet the mind, it’s perfect for north- or east-facing areas, beneath the shelter of trees, or nestled into a tranquil courtyard. The delicate balance of foliage, form, and understated blooms creates a space that feels enclosed, contemplative, and quietly alive.
Ideal Conditions:
• Light: Partial to full shade
• Soil: Moist, humus-rich, and well-drained
• Shelter: Best in spots protected from strong winds
• Style: Woodland-edge serenity or shaded courtyard elegance
To prepare your space, begin by gently clearing away any perennial weeds and enriching the soil with generous handfuls of compost or enriched compost. A soft bark mulch will help retain moisture, nourish the soil, and support long-term structure—setting the stage for a garden that will grow more beautiful with each passing season.
This shaded border is professionally designed by Leonie Cornelis, Award Winning Designer and Author and Jo McGarry, Co-Owner of Caragh Nurseries using a soothing back–middle–front layering technique that creates a calm and immersive experience. Strong, leafy anchors form the backdrop—offering bold structure and a sense of quiet enclosure. The middle layer weaves in softer shapes and textures, bringing rhythm and movement, while the front is softened with a low-growing groundcover that gently spills forward, inviting the eye to linger.
With a focus on foliage form and subtle colour, this design celebrates the beauty of restraint—offering depth, flow, and harmony without overwhelming the senses. It’s a border that feels grounded and serene, yet alive with quiet detail.
You’ll receive a bespoke planting plan tailored to the size of your chosen bed, clearly divided into three sections—front, middle, and back—so you’ll know exactly where each plant belongs. With Leonie’s expert design guiding you, creating a balanced, contemplative border is both simple and deeply rewarding.
This shaded border has been expertly designed by Jo & Leonie to offer lasting beauty with minimal intervention. Its thoughtful mix of evergreen texture and seasonal highlights means it remains quietly elegant throughout the year – perfect for those seeking a garden space that feels calm, grounded and effortlessly maintained.
Built for resilience and ease, this planting scheme thrives with just a few light touches – occasional pruning, a yearly mulch and the simple pleasure of observing how it evolves with the seasons.
With your Garden Story, you’ll also receive a comprehensive maintenance pack, tailored to your specific planting plan. This includes scheduled reminders throughout the year, delivered as short videos and images, to guide you gently through each task right when it’s needed. It’s everything you need to keep your garden healthy, balanced and beautiful – with no stress and no guesswork.
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