Which plants/flowers grow in shade best?

I live in Southern Cali, where it feels like spring time most of the year. I have a huge tree that shades most of the grassy area in the backyard, which is technically dirt. I prefer to put plants/flowers in the shaded area, but not sure which plants will survive? Not really familiar with a lot plants, but I'm up for some advice! Thanks!

Which plants/flowers grow in shade best?
Ferns, azaleas, rhododendrons, sumac, snowberries, lots of native plants
Reply:You could do the azalea rhododendron thing, but you will have to put acid on them (eg miracid)
Reply:Also Hostas and when there is no frost...My favorite, Impatiens.
Reply:Another plant for shade is begonias. They have very pretty flowers.
Reply:What kind of a tree is it? If you live in So Cal the azalea answer probably wont work since our pH is so high. Ferns are nice. Staghorns are great and might grow on your tree as long as it isn't an oak. I use ferns and fuchsias and love clivia miniatas. They don't bloom for long but they are truly enduring and get better every year. Campanula is a low growing fill in plant that will grow in our area and requires little water but still likes it a bit acid.
Reply:Astilbe


Impatiens


Begonias


Hosta


Hydrangea


Rhododendron


Azalea


Day lilies


Campanula


Rudbeckia


Althea





List and description of shade loving flowers:


http://entwoodnursery.com/gate/shadeplan...