Ostrich ferns don't do as well in the Atlanta area (too hot). Try something like Lady Fern, Autumn Fern or East Indian Holly Fern (the last two are evergreen). Epimediums are a popular choice these days for shade gardening. Keep in mind that Bleeding heart usually goes dormant when it gets hot, so plan so that you have other things there (or add more annuals at that time). If you want a little height, consider Black Cohosh or Goatsbeard (Astilbe is similar).

IÂm in the same situationÂupdating a north side entry way always in shade. While looking for ideas, found an 8-page article on color for shade in current issue of Garden Ideas magazine (Spring 08). Shows and describes many brightly colored shade plants, colors available, growing conditions, appropriate zones, etc. Especially like the many colors of astilbes.

I would suggest you pick a fern that does not wander. Ostrich ferns will take over your bed in a few years. Lady,Christmas, autumn would be better choices, but the suggestions about getting a good one for your area are most important, money saving ideas.

What ferns are native to GA? Would a dragon arum or other aroid do well. (I love aroids!!)

Ferns that are native to Georgia:

Christmas fern
Ebony Spleenwort
Lady fern
Cinnamon fern
Royal fern
Netted chain fern
Sensitive fern
Broad beech fern
Resurrection fern
Rockcap fern
New York fern
Northern maidenhair fern
Southern maidenhair fern
Hayscented fern
Bracken fern
Marginal fern
Thelypteris kunthii (the common names are too confusing)
and many more

I'd recommend you get a copy of "Field Guide to the Ferns and Other Pteridophytes of Georgia" by Snyder and Bruce.

I don't know about Dragon Arums. Are they related to Jack in the Pulpit (Arisaema triphyllum)?

Yes and no, The dragon arum is an aroid but not arisaema. I don't know the requirements of the jack-in-the-pulpits but I would love to have some. Does anyone know a good place to get aroids?

hostas,solomon's seals,heucheras

I don't know about locally, but I think Plant Delights (mail order) has a good selection of aroids. Just put the word "aroid" in their search box.

Here is a link that might be useful: Plant Delights

I have a bleeding heart that blooms all summer. Sorry, don't know the name of it.