a willow tree ...

or a pussy willow shrub??

location might help also

Since the Matteuchia s. gets to be 3-5' tall is that the height you want?

Hi, It is a pussy willow bush that is the size of a medium sized tree. I am in zone 6 and I'm thinking that may the ostrich fern would be best.

Thanks,

Nancy

Ligularia 'little rocket' gets to 4 ft tall and it shares the same moisture requirement with the pussy willow as in wettish soil.

What about Thalictrum?

Ligularia and Cimicifuga as well.

Thanks for the suggestion. Will think about it.

Nancy

For tall: don't know about under a willow tree, but Aruncus dioicus (goat's beard) seems to thrive here with a few hours of sunlight plus overall neglect.

acanthus...if you like that sort of thing.

Anemone 'Honorine Jobert' is one I'm currently checking out for my garden. Look at the photos at the bottom of the page in the link.

Pink Turtlehead? Mine are in wet shady spots and are pretty much ignored every year. They are thriving...