Shade-loving evergreens are a bit of an oxymoron. Most needle-leaved evergreens prefer good sunlight. You could try Russian arborvitae (Microbiota decussata) which is fully evergreen and looks something like a small juniper, but is well suited for shade. Other possibilities include dwarf hemlocks and yews.

For containers, non-conifer options include small, broad-leaved evergreens such as cherry laurel (Prunus laurocerasus), Japanese skimmia (Skimmia japonica), sweet box (Sarcococca hookeriana), and possibly Meserve holly (Ilex x meserveae). Both male and female holly trees are needed for berry formation.

For tips on a variety of gardening topics, see our Plant Information Guides.
- Courtesy of NYBG Plant Information Service