What Will Grow In Dry Shady Soil?

Question

I have a small healthy pond which is kept reasonably wild and natural. It has water mint and various oxygenating plants in it. It attracts hover flies, damsel flies , frogs etc. The surrounding area has rocks and wood piles for wildlife but I’d like to grow around it. Buttercups will grow and there are a few evening primrose but nothing much else. It looks dry and boring. Any ideas? . I’d like it to attract insects etc but also look attractive. There are overhanging branches which I plan to cut back a bit.

Answer 1

These articles should help:

https://extension.usu.edu/yardandgarden/research/landscaping-in-dry-shade

https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/gardens-gardening/your-garden/help-for-the-home-gardener/advice-tips-resources/visual-guides/plants-for-dry-shade

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/special/shade/ground-covers-for-shade.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/special/shade/adding-perennials-to-your-shade-garden.htm