Extensive shade can be a challenge; the desire for shade can offset the gardener’s ability to showcase bright blooms. Azaleas and camellias, species native to Southeast Asia, were introduced into Houston gardens as early as the 1920’s, and have become enormously popular as well as successful transplants into this semi-tropical environment. These showy species prefer acidic, woodland soils and dappled light conditions. The Woodland Garden features broad sweeps of azaleas and camellias as well as native understory trees, shade-loving ferns, and naturalizing bulbs.
