Many gardeners bemoan the fact that so many shade plants are perennials, strutting their stuff from spring until fall, then disappearing completely until the temperatures rise in the spring. While this is true, we contend that it gives gardens a fresh start each year, and when those perennials start popping up, it's like finding treasures in the garden. Hardy fuchsias such as 'Beacon' are a very welcome addition to shade gardens, coming back year after year with very little effort. This upright fuchsia stands 12 to 24 inches tall and wide, bearing single-petaled flowers with deep pink sepals (the outer petals) and a flared mauve corolla (the center). These dainty flowers attract hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies from spring right up until freeze. Trim the dead branches back in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges, and your work is done - easy peasy!