Best shrubs for total shade?

[Memoo]

I have a large area at the bottom of the garden that is in total shade all day because of a huge tree.

I really need to plant something that will grow big and very bushy but have no idea about plants at all.

Please could anyone recommend anything.

Ferns. Hostas.

Depends what size plant you want and if you want flowers.
Hellebores are quite small and low growing but pretty purple or white flowers in early spring when everything else is dead.

Sorry - reread. Big and bushy. What about Rhododendron, azalea or hydrangea.
Try here
apps.rhs.org.uk/advicesearch/Profile.aspx?pid=430

Eleagnus maculata.

Mahonia japonica and charity

Fatsia

Azalia and rhododendrum need acid soil so no good unless you are in that part of the country, or plant in ericacious compost and top up.

This site has super ideas

www.crocus.com

Just search for shrubs and the conditions.

The best website for advice is the Royal Horticultural Society's. As well as the list of plants for under trees (in I woulddoDrWho's link) they also suggest wall shrubs for shade.

Water copiously and regularly as the tree will much of the moisture in the soil and its canopy may well prevent any rainfall to reach the soil.

I would also enrich the soil and mulch generously to help with moisture retention.

Ruscus aculeatus will grow anywhere including in total shade under trees. Watch out pruning it though - it'll have your eye out [voice of experience].