Plants for a shady ditch

office gardener

I'm looking for plants that might thrive in a c 30m ditch at the eastern side of woodland (and somewhat overhung by trees). Any ideas gratefully received!

plant pauper

Fern, hosta, Arum lilies. 

How wet? How tall? I imagine any shady bog plants would be happy there. 

Borderline

For a woodland feel, I think Bergenia Cordifolia, Elephant's Ear, a sturdy robust plant that has glossy rounded foliage all year round would suit this setting. Sometimes tinged red in autumn. In Spring and early summer flowers can last for a long time. Lamprocapnos Spectabilis, the Bleeding Heart plant has very decorated leaves and heart shaped showy arching flowers. Astilbes will also thrive with a nice neat clump forming base. In late summer the plumes of flowers lasts for a long time and can also be used for dry flower arrangements if picked early. Astrantias and Viola Odorata should do fine provided it is not totally boggy. All have interesting leaves that will add some form when not in flower.

Fairygirl

Is it deciduous woodland, or evergreen? That will make a difference to the suggestions. Coniferous woodland would be very dry.

Can you offer a bit more info Ian?  

office gardener

Many thanks indeed for the replies!  It is deciduous woodland and currently there are dock leaves, thistles etc growing on the eastern side of the ditch (the woodland side is mainly brambles). The ditch is u-shaped and always damp with  some water at most times of the year. The soil is reasonably fertile and well draining (north Norfolk!)